Honda Prelude Debuts in Zurich: Sporty 3‑Door Coupe with Hybrid Power and Practicality

A detailed look at Honda’s new Prelude coupe unveiled at the Zurich Auto Show, covering its striking design, sporty performance, advanced tech, and surprisingly practical interior for a compact sports car.

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February 22, 2026

Table of Contents

Exterior Design

The first glimpse of the new Honda Prelude at the Zurich Auto Show revealed a bold, three‑door coupe that feels both youthful and purposeful. Its low stance and sweeping lines give it a sporty silhouette, while the deep blue metallic paint adds a touch of personality. The front fascia features a prominent air intake and a subtle blue accent that ties the design together.

Performance and Powertrain

Under the hood, the Prelude offers two powertrain options. The standard petrol version delivers 184 horsepower, while a hybrid variant combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 180 horsepower. The hybrid’s 0‑to‑100 km/h time is 8.2 seconds, a respectable figure for a compact coupe. Both engines are paired with a 6‑speed manual gearbox, keeping the driving experience engaging.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Prelude feels surprisingly spacious for its size. The cabin is upholstered in a mix of leather and Alcantara, with piano‑black accents that echo the exterior’s color palette. The dashboard layout is familiar to Civic owners, featuring physical buttons for climate control and a central infotainment screen that supports wireless charging and USB connectivity.

Safety and convenience are highlighted by a suite of sensors and cameras. Parking sensors, a blind‑spot warning system, and a rear‑view camera provide comprehensive coverage. The car also includes an air‑side tunneling design that improves aerodynamics and contributes to a quieter ride.

Practicality and Space

Despite its sporty exterior, the Prelude offers practical interior space. The rear seats can be folded flat, creating a generous cargo area that can accommodate a mattress or large luggage. The door handles are flush and the windows are power‑operated, adding to the car’s modern feel.

The vehicle’s 19‑inch alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, and Continental Premium Contact 6 tires give it strong grip and responsive braking. LED lighting is used throughout the cabin and exterior, including the license‑plate area and reverse lights, enhancing visibility and style.

Pricing and Availability

Honda has priced the Prelude in Swiss francs, with the hybrid variant positioned slightly higher due to its additional electric components. While the exact figures vary by trim level, the car’s overall value is clear when considering its blend of performance, technology, and interior comfort.

Final Thoughts

The new Prelude showcases Honda’s ability to merge sportiness with practicality. Its striking design, solid performance, and thoughtful interior make it a compelling choice for drivers who want a coupe that can also serve everyday needs. The Zurich Auto Show debut has set high expectations for the model’s launch in the coming months.

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