Table of Contents
Design and Styling
When the first Honda Prelude rolled off the assembly line in the early 1980s, it captured the imagination of a generation of teenage drivers. Fast forward a quarter‑century, and the new Prelude arrives with a design that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. The front fascia, with its sharp LED strip and sculpted hood, has earned praise from enthusiasts who see hints of the classic VTEC coupes, the Audi TT, and even the Ford Mustang. Yet the car also carries a subtle, almost understated elegance that avoids the “retro‑cliché” trap many modern coupes fall into.
Under the hood, the 19‑inch Continental tires give the car a planted stance, while the black alloy wheels—common on many Honda models—add a touch of understated sportiness. The most eye‑catching detail is the Brembo‑inscribed brake calipers, a nod to the Civic Type R’s performance pedigree. The overall look feels like a “Toyota Prius” in a coupe, but the styling cues are unmistakably Honda.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Prelude feels like a modern Civic with a few extra touches. The dashboard is dominated by a large, centrally‑placed “Prelude” emblem, and the infotainment system is essentially a Civic‑derived unit, complete with a simulated gear‑shift button that displays revs and gear ratios. The seats are leather in the front, but the rear seats are cloth, a compromise that keeps the car light yet practical.
Space is generous for a coupe. The rear seats can be folded down to create a cargo area that rivals a small hatchback. The large, non‑wipered rear window—essentially a velux—provides a panoramic view, but taller passengers may find the headroom a bit tight. The seat belt anchor points and the leather strap are positioned to keep the cabin comfortable, though they can feel a little intrusive when getting in and out quickly.
Powertrain and Performance
The new Prelude is powered by a 2‑liter, front‑wheel‑drive petrol engine that produces about 142 brake horsepower. However, the car is not a straight‑line sprint machine; it uses Honda’s eHEV hybrid technology, which adds a small electric motor to assist the engine. The combined output is roughly 184 brake horsepower, but the petrol engine primarily acts as a generator rather than a direct drive source.
Because of this hybrid setup, the car can operate in a “one‑pedal” mode, where regenerative braking takes over most of the deceleration. The S+ mode, which simulates gear changes, offers a more engaging feel, though the gear changes are algorithmic rather than mechanical. The brakes are borrowed from the Civic Type R, giving the car excellent stopping power even on wet roads.
Handling and Driving Experience
The Prelude’s suspension is tuned for a balance between comfort and agility. The front wheels, which carry most of the grip, are shared with the Civic Type R, ensuring a responsive feel. The steering is precise, with a moderate amount of weight that makes cornering feel natural. The adaptive chassis helps smooth out bumps, making the car suitable for daily driving as well as spirited sessions.
While the car does not deliver the high‑rev VTEC “screech” that older Preludes were known for, it still offers a satisfying drive. The lack of turbocharging means the power band is more linear, and the hybrid assistance keeps the engine from lugging at low speeds. For drivers who crave a punchy, high‑RPM experience, the Prelude may feel underpowered, but for those who value everyday usability and fuel efficiency, it delivers a compelling package.
Market Position and Final Thoughts
Priced at around €59,995, the new Prelude sits in a niche that blends performance, practicality, and hybrid efficiency. It is lighter than many competitors, weighing less than 1,500 kilograms, which helps with handling and fuel consumption. The car’s design and interior make it a standout on the road, earning double takes from on‑lookers.
Honda has hinted at future upgrades, including a potential 250‑horsepower tune and a Type R variant. Whether those developments will materialize remains to be seen, but the current model already offers a unique blend of retro charm and modern technology. For those who grew up with the original Prelude and now seek a contemporary, efficient coupe, the new Honda Prelude is worth a test drive.