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Reawakening a Classic
When the 2024 model year rolls out, the automotive world is buzzing with sequels and revivals. Amid the chatter about sequels like "Wears Prada 2" and "Toy Story 5," Honda’s new Prelude quietly reclaims its place on the road. The original 1988 model, famed for its four‑wheel steering and a price tag that would have shocked a modern buyer, is now being reimagined as a hybrid‑only, 2‑plus‑2 sports coupe that starts at a drive‑away price of $65,000.
Design Roots: Civic Type R DNA
Unlike its predecessors that rode on the Accord platform, the new Prelude is built on the Civic chassis. The engineering team borrowed the dual‑axis front suspension from the Civic Type R, coupled with a multi‑link rear end, to give the car a rigid, track‑ready feel. The body is 60 mm lower than a standard Civic hatch, yet headroom is only 23 mm less, thanks to a new roof‑brace system that enhances structural integrity. The styling nods to Porsche’s 911 and Cayman, with a sleek rear that hints at the legacy NSX, making the Prelude unmistakably sporty.
Powertrain and Performance
The heart of the Prelude is a 2‑litre, 4‑cylinder twin‑cam petrol engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.1 kWh battery. The hybrid system offers three modes: pure EV, hybrid, and ICE‑only. Official figures list 135 kW of power and 315 Nm of torque, but the combined output is closer to 150 kW, giving the car an 8.2‑second 0‑100 km/h time. Independent tests have recorded times in the mid‑seven seconds, suggesting the numbers are conservative. Four drive modes—Comfort, GT, Sport, and a configurable “Plus” setting—allow drivers to tailor performance and comfort to their mood.
Interior, Features, and Practicality
Inside, the Prelude feels like a premium sports car. The dashboard borrows from the Civic but is finished with suede‑like trim, a Bose audio system, and a 3‑year free subscription to Google services. Adaptive dampers and Brembo brakes give the car a “gliding” feel, while the steering is described as “fabulous” and “muscular.” However, the interior is not without quirks: door handles are fiddly, seat adjustments feel flimsy, and the gear lever’s push‑button toggle can be confusing. The car lacks a manual gearbox, a spare wheel, and a sunroof—features that disappointed some traditionalists.
Practicality is surprisingly strong for a sports coupe. The hatchback layout and two folding rear seats allow the car to carry a bicycle or other cargo, making it a 2‑plus‑2 that can double as a family car. Easter eggs pay homage to the original: a latch marks the 25 November 1978 debut, and a hidden picture of the SB‑series Civic sits under the mat.
Safety, Warranty, and Value
Safety is bolstered by a suite of driver‑assist technologies, including automatic emergency braking, blind‑spot monitoring, and lane‑support systems. While the Prelude may not have a formal crash‑test rating, its strengthened body and safety tech suggest it will perform well in real‑world scenarios. Honda offers a five‑year warranty, roadside assistance, and a $199 cap‑price servicing plan if the car is maintained at a dealer. The warranty can increase annually up to eight years, adding long‑term value.
Fuel economy is a highlight: the car averages 4.3 L/100 km on standard 91 RON petrol, rising to 7 L/100 km under hard driving. This makes the Prelude one of the most efficient sports cars on the market, especially when compared to the Lexus LC 500H, which starts near $220,000.
Driving Experience and Verdict
Test drives reveal a car that “glides” whether in EV, hybrid, or ICE mode. The steering feels precise, the adaptive dampers provide a comfortable yet sporty ride, and the car’s handling is described as “hot” and “hungry for corners.” The interior’s tightness in the back seat is a drawback, but the overall cabin feels luxurious and well‑finished. For a price that sits in the Goldilocks zone—neither too cheap nor too extravagant—the Prelude offers a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and modern amenities.
For buyers who value a front‑wheel‑drive sports coupe that can also serve as a practical daily driver, the 2024 Prelude stands out. It revives a beloved badge, incorporates cutting‑edge hybrid technology, and delivers a driving experience that feels both nostalgic and forward‑looking.