SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Jan. 13, 2025 – Honda is set to reintroduce the iconic Prelude nameplate with an all-new hybrid-electric sports coupe slated to hit the U.S. market late next year. This exciting revival blends the sporty heritage of the Prelude with Honda's commitment to electrification, marking a new chapter for the brand.
A Nod to the Past, a Leap into the Future
The Prelude, first introduced in 1978, holds a special place in Honda's history and in the hearts of car enthusiasts. Known for its sleek design and engaging driving dynamics, the Prelude consistently pushed boundaries with innovative technologies like four-wheel steering and torque vectoring.
This sixth-generation Prelude carries forward that spirit of innovation, featuring Honda's award-winning two-motor hybrid powertrain. This system promises to deliver both exhilarating performance and impressive fuel efficiency, appealing to a new generation of drivers.
Honda S+ Shift: Elevating the Driving Experience
Further enhancing the driving experience is the introduction of Honda S+ Shift, a new drive mode designed to maximize driver engagement. Building upon the existing Linear Shift Control, this innovative feature promises to deliver a more spirited and connected driving feel.
"The return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid-electric sports model demonstrates our continued commitment to offer a variety of exhilarating products to meet the needs of our customers," said Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda Auto Sales. "The first three products in the Honda lineup in the 1970s were Civic, Accord and Prelude, and soon all three will be back together again in our passenger car lineup as hybrids."
Prelude's Electrifying Comeback
The hybrid-electric Honda Prelude Concept first debuted at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show and later made its North American appearance at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show. This marked a significant moment for Honda, signaling its intention to merge its heritage with its future-forward electrification strategy.
Honda's Electrification Journey
Honda has set ambitious goals to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, aiming for 100% electric vehicle sales by 2040. Hybrid-electric vehicles play a crucial role in this strategy, serving as a bridge to a fully electric future.
The company is celebrating a significant milestone this year: 25 years of hybrid sales in America. Starting with the Insight in 1999, Honda has steadily expanded its hybrid offerings. Currently, hybrid trims account for over 50% of Accord and CR-V sales, with the Civic hybrid expected to reach similar levels of popularity.
Expanding the Electric Horizon
Honda's electrification strategy extends beyond hybrids. The brand recently launched its first all-electric SUV, the Prologue, and is set to begin production of EVs based on its new Honda-developed EV platform at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio.
Furthermore, Honda has unveiled plans for its 0 Series, a global lineup of electric vehicles. Two concept models, the Saloon and the Space-Hub, were showcased at CES 2024. A production model of the Saloon is planned for introduction in 2026.
A Legacy of Innovation
With the return of the Prelude, Honda is reaffirming its commitment to delivering exciting and innovative vehicles. This hybrid-electric sports coupe represents a harmonious blend of performance, efficiency, and style, capturing the essence of the Prelude's legacy while embracing the future of mobility.