Honda has officially revived one of its most iconic nameplates, announcing that the all-new 2026 Honda Prelude has begun arriving in dealerships. Now a hybrid-electric sports coupe, the Prelude blends modern electrification with performance hardware borrowed directly from the Civic Type R, positioning it as one of the most distinctive new sporty hybrids on the market. The model launches in a single, well-equipped trim starting at $42,000.
The 2026 Prelude marks Honda’s fourth hybrid-electric passenger car, joining the CR-V, Accord, and Civic in the company’s expanding electrified lineup.
Hybrid Power Meets Performance Engineering
Under the hood, the new Prelude uses Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, paired with a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine. The setup produces a combined 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. Not impressive numbers by all means but this combination give the Prelude strong fuel economy ratings of 46/41/44 mpg (city/highway/combined)
Unlike traditional hybrids, there is no conventional transmission or CVT. Instead, power is delivered through a fixed gear ratio with a lock-up clutch, allowing the electric motor to provide immediate torque while the engine handles steady-state cruising. Honda says this creates smoother, more predictable acceleration – a key trait for a sporty daily driver.
Honda’s all new S+ Shift also adds extra spice to the new Prelude. This new drive mode simulates a traditional performance transmission. Using paddle shifters and advanced software, S+ Shift enables:
- Enhanced engine sound
- Simulated gear changes
- Downshift blips
- Rev-matching
- Gear holding
Drivers can choose from Comfort, GT, Sport, and Individual modes, each adjusting features such as Adaptive cruise behavior, Powertrain response, Suspension damping, Steering weight, Engine sound and Gauge cluster layout.
The new Prelude also gets a Type R treatment in the braking department. Equipped with the Civic Type R’s 13.8-inch two-piece front rotors paired with Brembo four-piston aluminum calipers finished in a unique Prelude Blue shade, the Prelude is sure to stop in a dime.
The new Honda Prelude can be cross-shopped against the Subaru BR-Z, Toyota Prius and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
