Open Today Sales: 9 AM-6 PM
The 2026 Prelude will likely share its platform with the current-generation Civic or Accord, meaning that it will probably be built on a front-wheel-drive architecture. Honda has shied away from offering all-wheel drive (AWD) in its passenger cars, but adding an electric motor to the rear axle for AWD on this sports coupe isn’t out of the question.
Honda has confirmed that the new Prelude will be powered by a hybrid system, likely similar to the one in the Accord, Civic, and CR-V. This setup combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a direct-drive system instead of a traditional transmission. Honda has also announced that the Prelude will feature an innovative new drive mode called “S+ Shift,” which is designed to enhance the driving experience by optimizing the engine and motor performance and providing an engaging exhaust soundtrack.
The Prelude’s trim range is sheer speculation at this point. However, judging by how Honda offers the Civic and Accord, it’s reasonable to assume that there will at least be a base edition that probably wears a “Sport” label, while the top-tier grade could be called “Sport Touring.” A mid-tier “Sport-L” trim might appear later as a happy-medium option.
Based on the Prelude Concept unveiled at recent auto shows, the production model is expected to retain much of the concept’s striking design language (Honda has a history of teasing near-production-ready prototypes). The 2026 Prelude will feature a low, wide stance, a long hood, and a rakish fastback roofline, all of which contribute to a sporty and aerodynamic appearance. Modern interpretations of classic Prelude design elements, such as the wide-mouth front grille and angular headlights, will help the new model stand out while staying true to its roots. The rear liftgate will provide hatchback versatility for managing cargo.
Honda dubs the Prelude an “electrified sport coupe,” meaning that it will offer an engaging driving experience that doesn’t quite cross over into sports-car territory. The hybrid powertrain is expected to provide spirited acceleration at least on par with what the Civic Hybrid and Honda Accord offer, which is in the 6.1- to 6.6-second range for a zero-to-60 mph dash. We won’t be surprised if Honda can squeeze a 5.9-second time out of the Prelude thanks to strategic weight reductions and advanced engineering. At the same time, the car’s low center of gravity and advanced suspension setup should make its handling extra agile. Honda’s new Linear Shift Control technology, which simulates the feel of a conventional transmission shifting gears, could add an extra layer of driver involvement.
Inside, the 2026 Prelude will certainly have a driver-focused cabin filled with premium materials and advanced technology features. Expect a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment touchscreen, and possibly a head-up display (at least on the highest trim). The automaker’s latest suite of driver-assistance and safety features, under the Honda Sensing banner, should also be included, with the likes of automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.
The 2026 Honda Prelude is scheduled to enter production and reach U.S. dealerships in late 2025.
