2026 Honda Prelude Press Kit

Overview

The all-new hybrid-electric 2026 Honda Prelude sports coupe advances the "joy of driving" for a new generation of buyers, as the first model to pair the award-winning Honda two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain with high-performance chassis hardware from the iconic Civic Type R. Prelude offers precise steering, responsive handling and fun-to-drive feel to deliver an engaging grand touring experience, while remaining comfortable for everyday driving.

Hybrid-electric models are a key part of the Honda electrification strategy, and the new Prelude hybrid is a perfectly timed addition to the Honda lineup, as hybrid-electric models represent about one-third of Honda sales, based on the success of the CR-V hybrid, Accord hybrid and Civic hybrid. Honda plans to expand hybrid application to represent over 60% of total auto sales in the coming years. Moreover, the three products that represented the Honda automobile lineup in the 1970s were Civic, Accord and Prelude, and now all three are back together again in the Honda passenger car lineup as hybrids.

The new Prelude grand touring sports coupe is inspired by the fun-to-drive performance, legacy of innovation and dynamic styling pioneered by earlier generations of Prelude, and its return to the Honda lineup as a hybrid-electric sports coupe demonstrates the continued commitment of Honda to deliver fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient and innovative products to its customers.

Award-Winning Hybrid Powertrain
The first-ever electrified Prelude is powered by the ultra-smooth, responsive and fuel-efficient Honda two-motor hybrid-electric system found in the award-winning Civic hybrid models. It combines two large and powerful electric motors with a highly efficient 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle direct-injection gasoline engine to deliver a sporty driving experience and receive exceptional fuel economy ratings. A combined system output of 200 horsepower and a robust 232 lb.-ft. of torque gives the new Prelude quick and responsive acceleration off the line and out of corners.

The 6th-generation Prelude marks the debut of Honda S+ Shift, an innovative
new drive mode that simulates a performance 8-speed transmission experience. Honda S+ Shift advances Linear Shift Control to deliver maximum levels of driver engagement. By precisely managing engine RPM and integrating paddle shifters, Honda S+ Shift simulates quick gearshift responses through seamless coordination between the engine and the high-power traction (drive) motor, including downshift blips, rev matching and gear holding.

With the innovative new Honda S+ Shift system, Prelude delivers the ultimate electrified Honda driving experience with a responsive and engaging shifting simulation, featuring virtual rev-matched downshifts in S+ mode and enhanced engine sounds to increase the driver's sensory connection with the vehicle.

Sophisticated, Yet Muscular Exterior Design
The exterior design of the new Prelude is sophisticated, yet muscular with a low, sharp nose, wide stance, smooth silhouette and clean, dynamic surfaces with flush door handles. Prelude is distinct from every angle, highlighted by the sports coupe's aggressive proportions, a racy "double-bubble" roof and flared fenders that cover large 19-inch Berlina Black wheels wrapped in 235/40R19 tires. The wide stance of Prelude is accentuated by unique wing-like daytime running lights and the double horizontal lines of its full-width taillights.

The exterior styling features meticulous attention to detail, including a black chrome grille louver, and blue accents at the lower center of the front and rear fascias that emphasize the coupe's low and sporty stance. That same blue color is also seen on the coupe's large four-piston Brembo front brake calipers, adding style and emphasizing Prelude's impressive stopping power.

Type R Chassis Hardware
The 2026 Honda Prelude is the brand's first hybrid-electric model to feature high-performance chassis hardware from the legendary Civic Type R, including the dual-axis strut front suspension and large brakes originally designed for the brand's iconic hot hatch. This setup also brings the Type R's wide front and rear tracks. With the suspension and brake systems tuned exclusively for Prelude, including the standard Adaptive Damper System, the new sports coupe delivers a sporty and highly capable yet comfortable grand touring experience with high levels of driver exhilaration and engagement.

Selectable drive modes (Comfort, GT, Sport and Individual) enable the driver to optimize the Prelude driving experience for various driving conditions. The suspension's distinct damping characteristics in each drive mode give the driver precise control of ride and handling with optimized damping curves. High-performance summer tires that maximize grip and handling are available.

Immersive Driver-Focused Cabin
The new Prelude offers an immersive cabin with a clean and elegant design, plus a low cowl and thin A-pillars for exceptional forward visibility, all crafted around the grand touring driving experience. Ultra-premium front sport seats feature soft-touch leather, racing-inspired visually-integrated head-restraints, and asymmetrical lower bolstering to balance driver support with passenger comfort.

Performance-focused details of the new cockpit include a thick-rimmed flat-bottom steering wheel with high-contrast blue stitching, a position marker at 12 o'clock, alloy shift paddles mounted to the wheel, and sport pedals.

Smart Technology
Technology has been smartly integrated into the Prelude cabin, including a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9-inch HD color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility, Google built-in, a wireless smartphone charger and an 8-speaker Bose premium sound system – all standard.

To support performance driving, a new digital instrument cluster exclusive to Prelude provides clean, easy-to-read graphics and an extensive selection of displays, including a large tachometer and a multi-information display.

Safety for Everyone
The new 6th-generation Honda Prelude is a leader in sports coupe safety performance thanks to advanced active and passive safety technology that is standard equipment. This includes the Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, the latest version of the Honda proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure, next-generation airbag technology designed to cradle the head to offer enhanced front passenger head protection, front knee airbags, side curtain airbags and rear side airbags.

Every 2026 Prelude also is equipped with a Post-Collision Braking System (PCB) to help mitigate damage from multi-crash collisions.

One Well-equipped Trim
The new 2026 Honda Prelude includes all these features as standard equipment:

• New Honda S+ Shift system
• Leather-trimmed front sport seats with a perforated houndstooth pattern, integrated head restraints, asymmetrical driver/passenger bolstering and three-way heating
• 19 x 8.5-inch Berlina Black wheels
• 235/40R-19 tires
• Brembo™ four-piston aluminum front calipers (shared with Civic Type R), finished in unique Prelude Blue
• Dual-axis strut front suspension (shared with Civic Type R)
• Adaptive Dampers (shared with Civic Type R, uniquely tuned for Prelude)
• Four driving modes: Comfort, GT, Sport and Individual
• Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel with alloy shift paddles
• Sport pedals
• 2+2 seating with 60/40 split fold-down rear seat
• 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster
• 9-inch HD touchscreen with Google built-in
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto™ compatibility
• Wi-Fi Hotspot capability
• Wireless phone charger
• 8-speaker Bose premium sound system
• Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies
• Post-Collision Braking system (PCB)

The hybrid-electric Honda Prelude Concept made its first North American appearance at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show following its global debut at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, 45 years after the first-generation Prelude entered production in November 1978.

A beloved favorite of automotive enthusiasts, Prelude remained in the Honda lineup for five-generations through the 2001 model year. The sports coupe consistently introduced innovative new technologies to the Honda lineup and industry across five generations, including four-wheel steering (4WS) and torque vectoring Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS).

Powertrain

Key Powertrain Features

• First electrified Honda Prelude
• Award-winning 4th-generation Honda two-motor hybrid system
• Exceptional response, refinement and fuel economy ratings (46 city / 41 highway / 44 combined¹)
• Linear Shift Control creates vehicle speed-linked engine rev feel
• New Honda S+ Shift simulates a performance transmission experience

4th-generation Two-Motor Hybrid System
The new 6th-generation Honda Prelude is powered by the award-winning 4th-generation Honda two-motor hybrid system also found in the award-winning the Civic hybrid, the 2025 North American Car of the Year, as well as the Accord and CR-V hybrid models.

A 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection is mated to a pair of large and powerful electric motors mounted in-line with the engine crankshaft. The system produces a combined maximum output of 200 hp², and 232 lb.-ft. of traction motor torque for responsive acceleration.

The traction motor spins at a maximum 5,000-6,000 rpm and produces 181 horsepower. The generator motor puts out 143 horsepower and works primarily to charge the battery pack.

The 72-cell lithium-ion battery pack and its controlling hardware includes a dedicated cooling fan. Housed under the hood, a low-profile Power Control Unit (PCU) allows room for a large intake air resonator for the engine to reduce noise.

The Honda hybrid system also incorporates Linear Shift Control, which creates the vehicle speed-linked engine rev feel of a conventional drivetrain shifting gears for a more engaging driving experience.

Direct Injected 2.0-liter Atkinson-Cycle Engine
The Honda two-motor hybrid system features a refined and powerful 2.0-liter DOHC 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine with excellent environmental performance. Since the gasoline engine can be decoupled from the rest of the hybrid powertrain, it only operates as needed, depending on the state of battery charge and other parameters. The arrangement includes a high-speed lockup ratio for direct engine drive on the highway. This improves responsiveness for a sporty driving feel and creates a more relaxed driving environment at highway speeds.

A pre-damper incorporated into the flywheel reduces torque fluctuations from the engine, suppressing vibration at low rpm/low torque speeds for quiet operation during idling.

Peak engine output is 141 hp (SAE net at 6,000 rpm) and 134 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net at 4,500 rpm). The 2.0-liter engine combines high-pressure direct-injection with multistage injection for an extremely homogeneous mixture that delivers clean combustion. It also improves the stoichiometric area of the engine at higher loads and improves the heat efficiency of the engine to nearly 41%. To control high exhaust gas temperatures, the cylinder head uses a two-piece water jacket, gas-cooling exhaust ports and a large-capacity cooled EGR valve.

Critical to the operation of the Atkinson cycle is a lightweight DOHC cylinder head, with Variable Timing Control (VTC) on the intake cam used to continuously adjust the intake cam phase.

To further reduce emissions, a low-temperature active catalyst with a low level of noble metals drops NOx emissions by 24%, and total hydrocarbon emissions by 22%, giving Prelude a LEV3 SULEV 30 rating.

The engine also features a rigid crankshaft and secondary balancer to reduce vibration. An all-urethane engine cover reduces noise from the direct-injection system.

Direct Drive Torque Transfer
Notably, the Honda two-motor hybrid system is not equipped with a traditional transmission or CVT. Rather than use a torque converter and multiple gear ratios, or mechanical pulleys and a drive belt, drive force from the traction motor is sent to the wheels directly through a fixed ratio, while engine power is blended seamlessly through a simple lock-up clutch. This simple form of drive force transfer offers smooth and predictable acceleration from the traction motor, matched with efficient low-rpm highway cruising when the gasoline engine is in operation.

Under most circumstances, the generator-motor driven by the gasoline engine produces electricity which is sent to the drive motor and battery pack. The hybrid system is able to optimally and rapidly manage both engine and electric motor drive to deliver higher fuel efficiency and quicker engine response in each driving mode.

When cruising at mid- or high-speeds in the high-efficiency range of the engine, a lock-up clutch engages the drive motor to the generator motor, seamlessly transmitting engine torque directly to the drive wheels as efficiently as possible.

New S+ Shift
The 6th-generation Prelude marks the debut of Honda S+ Shift, an innovative new drive mode that simulates a performance 8-speed transmission experience. By precisely managing engine rpm and integrating alloy paddle shifters, Honda S+ Shift delivers quick, simulated gearshift responses through seamless coordination between the engine and drive motor, including downshift blips, rev matching and gear holding.

With the innovative new Honda S+ Shift system, Prelude delivers the ultimate electrified Honda driving experience. Activated by a large button on the center console, Honda S+ Shift advances Linear Shift Control to deliver maximum levels of driver engagement with a responsive shifting simulation, featuring virtual rev-matched downshifts and enhanced engine sounds to increase the driver's sensory connection with the vehicle.

Unlike Linear Shift Control, which operates only while the accelerator pedal is depressed – virtually shifting gears at deliberately higher engine rpm – Honda S+ Shift automatically upshifts and downshifts according to vehicle speed and accelerator pedal operation from even low-speeds such as city driving.

S+ Shift's Sports Adaptive Control evaluates driving conditions based on driver inputs, longitudinal/lateral G forces and road gradient to determine optimum virtual gear selection. It enables earlier downshifts and gear holds, allowing the engine to maintain higher rpm during cornering and ensuring strong acceleration response when exiting a curve.

Early Downshift Control
Honda S+ Shift applies Early Downshift Control in response to the driver's braking action (using brakes to replicate downshift feel when entering corners) when driving on winding roads. Early Downshift Control initiates an early virtual downshift to increase engine rpm. The generator motor harvests the resulting increased engine output, charging the battery in preparation for reacceleration.

Cornering Hold Control
When accelerating while cornering, Cornering Hold Control proactively adjusts upshift timing in response to increasing cornering force. By holding virtual gears, it enhances the linearity between engine sound and throttle input, deepening the driver's sense of unity with the vehicle. Maintaining high engine rpm ensures sharp acceleration response when exiting corners because the drive motor can be instantly activated at the highest demand level.

Step Shift Control
Step Shift Control varies both engine speed and drive force in steps, not only during acceleration but also in deceleration, reproducing the crisp shift feel of a stepped transmission.

During an upshift, the generator motor is put in regeneration mode to increase friction against the engine, facilitating rapid decrease in engine speed. At the same time, the drive motor's output is temporarily reduced. Together, these effects reproduce the distinct feel of an upshift in a stepped transmission, providing clear feedback to the driver's acceleration input.

When shifting to a lower gear, the generator motor's electric power generation is temporarily adjusted to sharply raise engine speed, simulating engine blipping. In certain driving situations, the drive motor's output is briefly reduced, reproducing the downshift feel of a stepped transmission.

Manual Control
During manual operation via Prelude's steering wheel mounted alloy paddle shifters, S+ Shift features rapid response gear shifting.

Three S+ Shift Modes
S+ Shift can be activated in Comfort, GT, Sport and Individual driving modes, and is tuned specifically for each combination to deliver a unique driving experience. Holding the S+ Shift button for two seconds is a shortcut to Individual mode and S+ Shift mode. In addition, S+ Shift reconfigures the 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster to include a large tachometer with a 6,000 rpm redline.

• S+ Shift in Comfort Mode is focused on maintaining low engine rpm. When decelerating, S+ Shift is tuned to suppress downshift feel and provide a more sophisticated feeling.
• S+ Shift in GT Mode is tuned to shift virtual gears smoothly without shock when upshifting and downshifting.
• S+ Shift in Sport Mode selects a lowish virtual gear ratio and maintains high engine rpm while deliberately increasing simulated gear-shift shock. This delivers the exhilaration of a high-revving naturally aspirated engine, complete with the feeling of acceleration, vibrations and engine sounds. When decelerating, S+ Shift provides the exhilaration of high engine rpm and the resulting higher levels of deceleration by actively.

Seven Levels of Deceleration with New Coasting Control
The new Prelude has seven levels of deceleration available (more than any other Honda hybrid model) through the selector paddles on the steering wheel. The multiple levels allow dramatically improved deceleration rates when using the paddles, providing greater freedom of control during deceleration.

In addition, Prelude is the first Honda model with Coasting Control, which is selected by operating the deceleration selector paddle (+) when at level 1 (normal engine braking). This deceleration level is equivalent to an idling deceleration experienced when selecting neutral with the shifter.

The new Coasting Control allows the car to coast to a stop, such as when approaching a red light, without regenerative braking. Since speed adjustment can be done using only the brake pedal, it reduces switching between pedals, thereby reducing effort.

Fuel Economy (MPG) Ratings

Trim	City / Highway / Combined1
Prelude	46 / 41 / 44

Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings; use for comparison purposes only; your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery condition), and other factors.

Exterior Design

Key Exterior Design Features

• First Honda Prelude liftback
• Sophisticated yet muscular exterior styling with advanced aerodynamics
• Low and wide exterior with aggressive stance and proportions
• Unique wing-like daytime running lights, wide set LED headlamps and taillights
• Large 19-inch Berlina Black wheels wrapped in 235/40R19 tires
• Beautifully integrated advanced aerodynamics
• Five bold exterior colors, including the new Winter Frost Pearl, which is available with either a body color or black roof option

Sophisticated Yet Muscular Exterior Design
The first Prelude liftback is distinct from every angle, highlighted by the sports coupe's aggressive proportions, a racy "double-bubble" roof and flared fenders that cover large 19x8.5-inch Berlina Black alloy wheels wrapped in 235/40R19 tires.

Prelude is low and wide, measuring 74.0 inches wide, with a low 53.4-inch roof line. Its wide stance is accentuated by unique wing-like daytime running lights, wide set LED headlamps and the double horizontal lines of its full-width LED taillights.

Hemmed wheel arches allow the wheels to be situated nearly flush with the fender without interfering with the body work, also accentuating the wide stance.

Advanced Aerodynamic Performance
Advanced aerodynamics give the new Honda Prelude an optimal balance of front and rear lift at higher speeds as well as a reduction of drag. Evaluated on Germany's Autobahn and winding Nürburgring North loop, Prelude's outstanding aerodynamic performance contributes to the sport coupe's exceptional high speed steering performance and stability.

Beautifully integrated aerodynamics include a large, ribbed front under spoiler that controls the flow of air to the wheel housings to reduce lift when cornering. A flat surface across the rear edge of the liftgate decreases lift force.

In addition, the front bumper design of Prelude reduces side wake, while the sports coupe's functional side-sill garnish helps reduce pressure inside the wheel wells, enhancing efficiency and contributing to a lower overall coefficient of drag.

Optimized Cooling
To optimize powertrain cooling performance, Honda engineers increased cooling air guide efficiency, which enabled a narrow-profile front grille. This enabled the Honda design team to create Prelude's low and sharp nose design.

Taking full advantage of the front overhang of the Prelude, the new design increases air velocity through induction with new cooler guides before the radiator. More efficient use of this air for cooling allowed designers to reduce the size of the grille openings by 35% compared to the Civic hybrid, for a sleek look.

Exterior Design Details
The exterior styling features meticulous attention to detail, including a black chrome grille louver, and blue accents at the lower center of the front and rear fascias that emphasize the coupe's low and sporty stance. That same blue color is also seen on Prelude's large four-piston Brembo front brake calipers, adding style to go with the impressive stopping power.

For a cleaner look, Prelude is the first Honda model with completely flush door handles that help improve aerodynamics and reduce wind noise. Another thoughtful touch is the placement of the antenna, now integrated into the liftback window glass. 

The outside mirrors are mounted on the door, rather than at the base of the A-pillar itself, improving outward visibility.

As with all Honda passenger cars, laser brazing technology along the roof line eliminates the need for roof molding for a smooth and clean coupe profile.

Five Bold Exterior Colors
The 2026 Prelude is available in five bold colors, including the new Winter Frost Pearl, which is available with either a bodycolor or black roof option (which includes black exterior mirror caps). Boost Blue Pearl, Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, and Rallye Red also are available.

New Line of Genuine Honda Accessories
For customers looking to take the sporty styling of Prelude even further, the sports coupe can be customized with an extensive new line of available Genuine Honda Accessories, including uniquely styled 19-inch machine-finished Berlina Black wheels, a black decklid spoiler, front underbody spoilers, black badging and black door mirror caps.

Body and Chassis

Key Body and Chassis Features

• High-rigidity body structure is fundamental to outstanding ride quality, handling and crash performance
• Type R-derived wide front and rear tracks
• Type R high-rigidity dual-axis strut front suspension and large brakes (Brembo front)
• Type R Adaptive Damper System (ADS) tuned exclusively for the Prelude to deliver sporty yet comfortable grand touring experience
• 19-inch wheels and available high-performance summer tires
• Type R dual-pinion electronic power steering (EPS) system
• First application of the enhanced Honda Agile Handling Assist improves handling and driver confidence
• Four distinct drive mode availability for customized driving dynamics

Enhanced Global Architecture 
Fundamental to the outstanding ride quality, handling and crash performance of the Prelude is its enhanced global architecture and exceptionally rigid but lightweight body structure. As on the Civic Type R, wide tracks (64.0 inches front and 63.5 inches rear) improve stability and handling. Prelude also features a 102.6-inch wheelbase for exceptional ride comfort and handling stability.

High-Rigidity Body Structure
Taking advantage of the short roof typical of a coupe, Prelude employs longitudinally arranged roof arch stiffeners, instead of the laterally arranged arch stiffeners used on Civic, to not only optimize body rigidity but lower the overall vehicle height. This enabled the design team to create Prelude's racy double-bubble roof design, which in addition to providing plenty of front seat headroom, helps reduce aerodynamic drag.

Extensive use of structural adhesive is applied throughout the body structure to add strength with minimal weight gain. The adhesive is applied where spot welds are performed, combining the strength of the weld and the broader surface area of the adhesive to increase the stiffness of the joint. This reduces the need for additional sheet metal thickness or welded-on reinforcements. An aluminum hood and resin radiator help minimize weight.

Hot stamped steel is used on the windshield frames and door sills, with high-strength steel used in the body cross members. The application of these materials increases rigidity for improved handling and a quiet ride, and improves collision safety performance with the Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure (see Safety and Driver Assistive section below). Body side surface strength is enhanced through use of a closed cross-section frame for the side surface joints, and integral bonding of the B pillars with the wheel housings. The resulting stiffness helps achieve a better balance of front-rear rigidity, which helps improve steering feel and precision.

Type R Suspension Hardware
The 2026 Honda Prelude is the brand's first hybrid-electric model to feature high-performance chassis hardware from the legendary Civic Type R, including the dual-axis strut front suspension and large brakes – Brembo up front – originally designed for the iconic hot hatch. With the Type-R's wide-track suspension, Adaptive Damper System and brake systems tuned exclusively for Prelude, the new sports coupe delivers a sporty, capable, yet comfortable grand touring experience with high levels of driver exhilaration and engagement.

Honda Prelude's specially tuned chassis and innovative dual-axis front suspension uses aluminum knuckles, strut forks and lower arms from the Civic Type R to help deliver quick, intuitive dynamics. The dual axis system virtually eliminates torque steer with a 0.75-inch reduction in steering axis offset and equal-rigidity drive shafts. A thick 26.5- mm tubular stabilizer bar improves response.

The dual axis strut design also improves the cornering camber profile, resulting in improved cornering grip, and steering feel and feedback through increased caster angle/trail and reduced steering-axis inclination.

Specially tuned for Prelude, the multi-link rear suspension from the Type R provides nimble handling in city driving and precise response for performance driving. Mounted on a rigid subframe, the system incorporates stamped-steel control arms, aluminum hub carriers and a thick 18.0-mm solid stabilizer bar, which helps provide crisp turn-in and body control for superior handling response, cornering agility and overall stability.

Adaptive Damper System
Tuned exclusively for the Prelude is a standard Adaptive Damper System (ADS) adapted from the Civic Type R. The specially tuned ADS helps the Prelude deliver a unique grand touring experience by allowing different, optimized damping curves that adjust automatically to suit driving conditions, based on steering input, lateral G and suspension stroke. The system contributes greatly to handling and ride comfort over a variety of surfaces. Controlled through the standard drive modes, the specially tuned ADS also provides distinct damping characteristics in Comfort, GT and Sport driving modes, offering driver precise control of the sports coupe's ride and handling characteristics. This includes:

• Comfort – A civilized balance of ride & handling.
• GT – This default mode provides firmer damper settings that stabilize the vehicle body during rapid steering inputs and maneuvers, which noticeably improves tactile feel, handling precision and overall responsiveness that can be enjoyed on a daily basis for an enjoyable grand touring experience.
• Sport – The firmest damper setting increases handling response and stability for maximum driver engagement, while still providing a comfortable ride.

The ADS, as used on the Civic Type R, includes stroke sensors on each wheel and acceleration (g) sensors in three locations to not only sense vehicle posture, but stroke speed on each wheel as well. This enables fine control of damping force that also contributes to increased tire road holding characteristics and a flat, sophisticated vehicle posture.

Type R Dual Pinion Variable Ratio Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPS)
The new Prelude is also equipped with the same high-rigidity dual-pinion electronic power steering (EPS) system as the Civic Type R.

Tuned specifically for Prelude, the system provides substantially superior feel compared to a single-pinion system by using the physical steering input from the driver as well as from a supplemental electric motor. A non-contact torque sensor measures the driver's steering effort, and an ECU determines how much electric motor assist to add, with the result being seamless, natural-feeling steering.

EPS also features a variable gear ratio for comfortable responses near center and quicker, sportier feel with increasing steering angle, yielding intuitive response at all speeds for a sporty and confident character. The steering ratio is variable, with a final full off-center ratio of 11.3:1 and an on-center ratio of 14.9:1. This provides a quick 2.1 turns lock-to-lock, which minimizes hand movement and steering effort when turning, parking or maneuvering. High steering mount stiffness and steering column stiffness enhance steering precision and feel.

In Comfort mode, the EPS delivers a smooth, natural turning and handling response. This transforms into a noticeably more direct and linear feel when the driving mode is set to GT, and to a highly direct steering feel in Sport mode.

Type R Brake Hardware
For exceptional braking performance, Prelude features the same brake hardware as the Civic Type R, including rotors, calipers and pad size. Lightweight two-piece front rotors measure 13.8-inch in diameter and are clamped by brawny Brembo™ monobloc four-piston aluminum calipers painted blue and dressed with both the Prelude and Brembo™ logos. The rear rotors have a 12.0-inch diameter with blue calipers.

Prelude also features Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist as standard equipment. The system provides a comfortable and refined feel at low speeds, with predictable reassuring brake performance during extreme driving.

Honda Agile Handling Assist
The 2026 Prelude includes the first application of the enhanced Honda Agile Handling Assist, which improves handling and driver confidence through integrated control of the powertrain and braking system in accordance with the driver's steering operation.

Previously, Honda Agile Handling Assist operated only during acceleration and when the accelerator pedal was released. Now, the enhanced system also operates during braking-related deceleration as the vehicle enters a curve and during other times of high deceleration, such as single-pedal driving, to provide greater stability when turning, improve corner traceability, overall cornering ability and promote confident handling feel.

By reducing powertrain output and applying braking force in certain cornering conditions, the system increases front axle load, thus generating more turning force and reducing understeer. The vehicle better follows the steering operation of the driver, especially in wet or snowy conditions and tight corners.

Straight Driving Assist
Straight Driving Assist reduces the steering effort required when driving on a sloped or crowned road. When the Straight Driving Assist system detects that steering effort is being applied to keep the car driving along a slope, the Electric Power Steering system applies motor assist. This reduces the muscle effort required to maintain the desired direction on the sloped road to the same level as is required on a flat road.

Four Distinct Drive Modes
Every Prelude comes standard with four distinct drive modes, which gives the driver the option to customize the driving experience for specific driving situations.

These distinct drive modes (Comfort, GT, Sport and Individual) allow the driver of Prelude to customize engine response, steering assist, suspension damping, engine sound, adaptive cruise control response, and the design of the gauge cluster. The specially tuned Adaptive Damper System helps the Prelude provide excellent performance and ride quality, with optimized damping curves for specific driving conditions while the Active Sound Control (ASC) provides an immersive experience for the driver and passengers.

Comfort Mode
Comfort mode programs the EPS for a lighter feel. ADS is on its softest setting and Active Sound Control (ASC) is set to its quietest mode. The digital instrument cluster illumination is blue.

GT Mode (Default)
GT mode is set for a balance between the relaxing atmosphere of Comfort and the increased performance of Sport mode for an engaging grand touring driving experience. Throttle response is quicker; suspension damping is increased for improved handling response and steering assist is decreased for better feel. The digital instrument cluster color is white.

Sport Mode
Sport mode activates the sportiest settings for the power steering, engine sound and powertrain response. Sport mode activates the firmest setting on ADS, and the sportiest setting on ASC. The digital instrument cluster color is red.

Individual Mode
Individual mode enables drivers to mix and match between the settings to customize the driving experience with independent selection of steering assist, powertrain response and sound, suspension damping, adaptive cruise control response and digital instrument cluster color.

Interior Design and Package

Key Interior Design Features

• Immersive driver-focused cabin
• Low cowl and thin A-pillars for exceptional forward visibility
• Thick-rimmed flat-bottom steering wheel with high-contrast blue stitching, position marker at 12 o'clock
• Alloy shift paddles and sport pedals
• Ultra-premium front sport seats with soft-touch leather, racing-inspired and visually-integrated head restraints
• Asymmetrical seat bottom bolstering for the driver and front passenger seats
• Legendary Honda interior packaging design assisted by a long 102.6-inch wheelbase
• 2+2 seating with a generous 32.0 inches of rear-seat legroom
• Ample cargo capacity for weekend getaways
• Large hatch opening for loading larger cargo items

Driver-Focused Cabin
The new Prelude offers an immersive cockpit with a clean and elegant design, low cowl and thin A-pillars for exceptional forward visibility, all crafted around the grand touring driving experience.

Performance-focused details of the new Prelude cockpit include a thick-rimmed flat-bottom steering wheel with high-contrast blue stitching, a position marker at 12 o'clock, and alloy shift paddles mounted to the wheel. Alloy sport pedals are also standard.

Synthetic leather wraps the center console and lower dash, where the Prelude-logo is artfully embroidered.

The Prelude interior is available in two striking color combinations, a two-tone blue and white or black – both featuring high-contrast blue accent stitching throughout the interior and color-coordinated with the sports coupe's blue exterior detailing.

Uniquely Individual Front Sport Seats
The premium front sport seats feature soft-touch leather, racing inspired integrated head-restraints embossed with the Prelude logo, and asymmetrical bolstering to balance driver support with passenger comfort. The heated front seats are accented with high-contrast blue stitching, a stylish perforated "heritage houndstooth" pattern upholstery inspired by the cabins of 1980s-era Honda models.

Prelude features asymmetrical seat bottom bolstering for the driver and front passenger seats. Firm padding and more prominent lower thigh bolsters provide the driver with a secure seating position, while the passenger enjoys a wider, more relaxed seat for everyday comfort.

In addition, the driver's seat features support wires to the side support frame to handle the higher lateral forces experienced when driving on winding roads. The urethane used in the driver's seat cushion and side supports is also firmer to help stabilize the driver's legs. To ensure greater comfort, the passenger's seat cushion bolsters are not fitted with support wires and employ softer urethane padding.

The advanced Body Stabilizing seat design uses multiple internal structures to provide outstanding support across the entire body, enhancing comfort on long grand touring drives. This includes a special mat below the cushion that supports the area from the pelvis to the lumbar spine for a more stable and solid seating feel.

An inner frame on the seat bottom stabilizes the hip to reduce movement and posture changes regardless of the various G forces experienced while driving. The curve of the seat bottom leaves no gap between the seat and thighs to prevent sliding forward, which combines with the internal structure to reduce forward and lateral pelvic tilt that can lead to fatigue and discomfort on long drives. The seat also centers the upper body over the pelvis, helping to stabilize the upper arms and the driver's sightline, making it easier to drive.

Thoughtful Design
Designed to support grand touring driving experiences, the immersive cockpit of the new Prelude enhances the exhilaration of driving everyday through emotive, thoughtful design.

Interior ergonomics were developed along two core principles: "instantaneous recognition" and "intuitive operation," which combines easy to understand information with natural-feeling controls. To this end, the new Prelude places meters and the center display on the upper part of the instrument panel, allowing the driver to gain useful driving information with limited eye movement. All secondary controls are positioned in the driver's natural functional flow, allowing intuitive operation with minimal movement.

The padded center console features deep and wide cupholders arranged behind its centrally located shifter, drive mode and S+ Shift buttons. The parking brake button is positioned to the left of the shifter. A large center console bin is located behind the cupholders. In front of the shifter is a wireless charging pad. The USB ports in the front of the console are illuminated to make them easier to identify at night.

The form and function of switches and other fixtures were carefully designed to be most suitable for each task – be it a twist, push or pull – with special attention to the feel and amount of spring force in controls. Such careful attention to detail included consistency between surface treatments, even on decorative parts, with the goal of creating an environment comparable to high-end tech devices.

Panoramic Visibility 
Prelude offers the driver and front seat passenger exceptional forward visibility thanks to the sports coupe's low, flat beltline and uncluttered cabin design. The thin A-pillars, low hood and flat dashboard result in a windshield with clearly defined corners for a panoramic view.

The outside mirrors are mounted on the doors behind the base of the A-pillar, creating a space and sightline between the front pillar and side view mirror for improved peripheral visibility. The front side windowsills are essentially in line with the bottom of the windshield and low cowl, contributing to the continuous, panoramic view.

The flat instrumental panel was designed to reduce the potential for visual noise in the form of windshield reflections from joints and seams.

Taken together, the enhanced visibility afforded by the exterior structure and interior design make it easier for the driver to understand the vehicle's position relative to its surroundings, whether driving in a straight line, or when cornering.

Outstanding Packaging and Versatility
Incorporating legendary Honda interior packaging design, the new Prelude offers 2+2 seating and ample cargo capacity for weekend getaways.

The driver and front seat passenger of Prelude enjoy a spacious 42.3 inches of legroom and 37.2 inches of headroom. Front seat shoulder room is a generous 57.1 inches, so Prelude is comfortable on long drives. Rear-seat legroom is an ample 32.0 inches.

Prelude offers remarkable utility and versatility, with a large liftback opening that helps make loading bulky items easy, and a generous cargo capacity of 15.1 cu. ft. (with rear seats up) – spacious enough to easily accommodate several large bags. Standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks fold flat to greatly expand the available space, enough to accommodate larger items including golf bags.

The cargo floor features an available foldable flexible tonneau cover that can be folded and held in place to further extend usability and versatility of Prelude.

HMI and Technology

Key HMI and Technology Features

• 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster includes a large tachometer in S+ Shift mode
• 9-inch HD color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto™ compatibility and Google built-in
• Bose premium audio system with new door-mounted Super65 wide-range speakers
• Wireless smartphone charger

Smart Technology
Technology has been smartly integrated into the driver-focused cabin of Prelude, including a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9-inch HD color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility, Google built-in and a wireless smartphone charger – all standard.

Standard Digital Instrument Cluster
To support performance driving, a 10.2-inch high-definition full-color digital instrument cluster provides exclusive easy-to-read graphics and an extensive selection of displays, including a large tachometer in S+ Shift mode and a multi-information display.

The digital instrument cluster features round dials and displays a variety of information, customizable from the steering wheel. In Sport mode the meter color is red.

Customizable areas on the left and right side of the display also convey information to the driver. The left side of the screen is dedicated to audio and telephone information, which the driver can select using the left-side steering wheel controls. The right side is dedicated to displaying driving-related information such as Honda Sensing® functions, or other vehicle information, which the driver selects using the right-side steering wheel controls.

Vehicle functions, including a numerical speed readout, are displayed between the speedometer and tachometer. This graphic meter communicates Honda Sensing® operating status in an easy-to-understand manner, with a rear bird's eye view of Prelude, and an accurate view of the surroundings, including curves in the road and the lane position of cars ahead. The display also uses a motorcycle and box truck as options to express "other vehicles" ahead.

In a fun surprise-and-delight feature, the brake lights, headlights and turn signals of the Prelude vehicle icon display turn on and off with the use of those functions.

Standard 9-Inch HD Touchscreen 
Prelude features a high-definition 9-inch color touchscreen system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility, along with a wireless smartphone charger. There are two 3.0A USB-C ports in the front.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the intuitive 9-inch system features a volume knob, large physical buttons, easy-to-recognize icons, and a finger rest to make it easy to use the touchscreen while the vehicle is in motion. A fast processor results in lag-free performance, and the simple navigation structure and screen layouts reduce the time needed to complete a task.

Up to six user-defined shortcuts are displayed at the bottom left side of the screen.

Google built-in
The new Prelude features the seamless integration of Google built-in, including Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, with the latest apps and services including navigation and continuously updated traffic information. A 3-year unlimited data plan is included.

Google Cloud's Speech-to-Text service is also included for incredibly accurate automatic speech recognition for in-vehicle voice-control of vehicle functions such as climate control functions. Users can simply say "Hey Google" or press the voice control button on the steering wheel to get started. Voice assistant also enables users to set their destination in Google Maps without taking their eyes off the road. The route map can then be displayed in the 9-inch color touchscreen.

Google Assistant capability includes the voice operation of media apps and vehicle functions such as the air-conditioning system, as well as smartphone functions such as texting and making a call. Google Play enables users to download various third-party apps such as music, podcasts and audiobooks.

Bose Premium Sound
Every 2026 Honda Prelude comes with a new Bose premium sound system, jointly engineered by Honda and Bose precisely for the interior of the 6th-generation Prelude, so the driver and front passenger are in the middle of the music, with a clear and spacious listening experience for all audio content.

The new 8-speaker system includes new door-mounted Super65 wide-range speakers, which play lower and with higher sound pressure than conventional 6.7-inch speakers, to create a clear sound profile. The system also features a large 7.9-inch subwoofer located in the cargo area and a Bose digital amplifier with advanced digital signal processing.

Bose audio engineers developed the sound system with advanced components and technologies, working closely with Honda to integrate the system into the interior design for optimal performance. Clear, impactful sound is delivered through the high-performance Bose speakers, strategically placed throughout the interior for exceptional music reproduction across all frequencies, low to high.

Dynamic Speed Compensation technology helps preserve the quality of the listening experience, automatically adjusting volume and tone based on vehicle speed, reducing the need for drivers to manually adjust settings while on the road.

HondaLink® Cloud-Based Services
The 2026 Prelude features a new and advanced generation of the cloud-based HondaLink® connected car system. HondaLink is designed to keep Prelude owners informed and connected while on the go. Through the HondaLink mobile app, owners have access to features and capabilities that include remote locking/unlocking and remote engine start, vehicle's last parked location, stolen vehicle locator, remote diagnostics, geo-fencing, speed alert and more.

Additionally, Prelude owners can use the HondaLink Skill for Alexa inside the home for remote voice control of vehicle functions such as remote start, locking and unlocking the doors, and more. This subscription-based system allows Prelude owners to access a range of features and functionality, including:

• Remote engine start with status
• Remote door lock/unlock with status
• Remote "Find My Car"
• Remote stolen vehicle tracking
• Remote fuel and range status
• Speed alert
• Geofencing

Safety & Driver-Assistive Technology

Key Safety and Driver-Assistive Features

• Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure optimized for oblique frontal collisions
• Front airbags designed to cradle the head and control rotation
• Front knee airbags and side impact airbags for both driver and front passenger
• Side curtain airbags and rear seat side-impact airbags
• Comprehensive Honda Sensing® suite of active safety and driver-assistive technologies
• Post-Collision Braking System (PCB) to help mitigate damage from multi-crash collisions

Safety for Everyone
Honda is committed to advancing safety for everyone sharing the road, which is captured in the Honda global safety slogan "Safety for Everyone." Based on this commitment, the new 6th-generation Honda Prelude is a leader in sports coupe safety performance with advanced active and passive safety technology that is standard equipment.

This includes the Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, the latest version of the Honda proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure, next-generation airbag technology designed to cradle the head to offer enhanced front passenger head protection, front knee airbags, side curtain airbags, and front and rear side impact airbags – all standard.

Advanced Airbag and Seatbelt Technologies
The 6th-generation Prelude is equipped with driver's airbag specifically designed to reduce head rotation in a collision, especially an oblique front collision. Using an innovative donut-shaped structure, the new airbag cradles and holds the head, mitigating excessive rotation and reducing the likelihood of brain injury.

On the passenger side, a three-chamber airbag design achieves a similar result. The three chambers inflate separately, with the two outer chambers that extend above the main chamber designed to cradle the head and control rotation.

In addition to these two airbags, Prelude benefits from additional standard airbag technology. Driver and front passenger knee airbags are standard, and rear side impact airbags are implemented as well. Also standard are side curtain airbags, and side impact airbags for both driver and front passenger, for a total of 10 airbags.

Seatbelt technology includes a load limiter used on the driver's side to help prevent chest injuries. Also, Prelude features a rear seatbelt reminder, which informs the driver if a rear seat occupant is not properly buckled up.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure used in Honda vehicles, introduced more than two decades ago, is designed to improve frontal crash compatibility between vehicles of varying sizes, such as an SUV and a small car, and has been continuously advanced. The latest version of the ACE™ structure in the new Prelude is designed to route crash energy around the cabin, especially in oblique impacts.

Pedestrian Protection
Following the Honda Safety for Everyone philosophy, which focuses on advancing safety for everyone sharing the road, the new Prelude has been designed to prevent and mitigate pedestrian injuries through both collision avoidance and collision mitigation technologies.

The Honda Sensing® suite of driver assistive and safety technologies has been engineered to detect pedestrians, warn the driver, or even apply the brakes to help prevent a collision (see below for more details).

In addition, the front end of the new Prelude has been specifically designed to mitigate pedestrian injuries. To protect against injuries that can occur when a pedestrian's head impacts the hood, an embossed structure was developed for the hood frame, under the lightweight aluminum skin of the hood. This structure helps transmit the load of an impact across a wider area, better helping to reduce the injury to a pedestrian's head, while allowing a smaller clearance between the hood and the engine. Additionally, the front bumper has been designed to prevent or reduce lower leg fractures, and ligament injuries to the knee.

Honda Sensing®
Prelude comes with a full Honda Sensing® suite of active safety and driver-assistive technologies that use a single camera mounted behind the windshield, rather than separate millimeter-wave radar and camera systems, coupled with an exceptionally fast processor and eight sonar sensors (four in the front and four in the rear).

This camera features a 100-degree field of view capable of detecting feature points of a target and recognizing attributes such as a vehicle or pedestrian. With the use of the fast processor, the system measures distance and the lateral position of objects based on the change in the size of the target object, how long it took for the change to occur, and speed of the vehicle. This enables the camera to recognize white lines, road boundaries such as curbs, other vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists and road signs. The sonar sensor system detects objects, including other vehicles, located near the front or rear of the vehicle.

In foul weather, system parameters allow operation even when the windshield wipers are operating at mid or high speeds, as long as the camera can detect objects. In addition, a heater prevents fogging of the windshield in front of the camera in cold weather.

Every 2026 Prelude also is equipped with Post-Collision Braking System (PCB). If the system detects an impact (of a primary collision) through the airbag system or it detects a rear-end collision, it then automatically operates the electric servo brake system with the brake lights, which reduces vehicle speed while alerting people nearby, thereby potentially mitigating damage in multi-impact crashes.

On Prelude, Honda Sensing® includes the following suite of standard safety and driver-assistive functions:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Pedestrian Detection: A single-camera system and advanced software enable the use of CMBS™. If no corrective action is taken when Forward Collision Warning (FCW) signals an alert, CMBS™ can apply different levels of autonomous braking action to help reduce vehicle speed and eventual collision forces, and therefore to help reduce the severity of a collision.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW, integrated with CMBS™): When the system determines a collision is possible with a detected vehicle, visual and audible alerts from the FCW system prompt the driver to take corrective actions.
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM): It can identify solid or dashed painted lane lines, Botts' dots and cat's-eye markers to find the edge of the road and use steering force to keep the vehicle from departing the lane or roadway altogether.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) integrated with RDM: Operates at speeds from 40 to 90 mph and is designed to alert the driver if the vehicle is leaving a detected lane without the turn signal being activated.
• Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross-Traffic Monitoring: If radars installed on the rear corners of the vehicle detect vehicles approaching from the rear, it will signal the driver with a visual and audible warning. It will alert the driver when a vehicle is detected within a range of approximately 80 feet.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow: Camera system works with Adaptive Cruise Control for a natural brake feel and quick reactions to detected changes in traffic. It also responds quickly when changing into an open lane from behind a slower car, and when a slower car is detected moving out of the lane ahead.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS): LKAS reduces the need for steering correction movements and driving effort when travelling in a detected lane. Thanks to the integrated camera system, LKAS is linear and natural feeling, with natural feeling steering assist, precise line tracing in corners and resistance to crosswinds.
• Front and Rear Parking Sensors: Four sonar sensors installed on the front of the vehicle and four on the back enable the implementation of Low-Speed Braking Control to reduce the likelihood of low-speed collisions with detected objects, such as in parking situations. The sensors are able to detect non-metallic objects that could be missed by the millimeter wave radar, such as glass and external exterior walls.
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR): Camera can automatically recognize traffic speed limit signs, displaying the information on the digital meter immediately after the sign is passed.
• Traffic Jam Assist: Works in conjunction with ACC and LKAS to provide lane-keeping functions at speeds below approximately 45 mph all the way to a standstill, such as in congested traffic.

Manufacturing

The all-new Honda Prelude is built at the Yorii Plant in Japan on the same production line as the Honda Civic Type R. Prelude's two-motor hybrid powertrain is also produced in Japan.

Features

Honda Two-Motor Hybrid System

200 total system horsepower; 232 lb.-ft. of torque

New S+ Shift simulates a performance transmission experience, including downshift blips, rev matching and gear holding.

Four Drive Modes: Comfort, GT, Sport and Individual mode

Dual-axis strut front suspension (shared with Civic Type R, uniquely tuned for Prelude)

Multi-link rear suspension

Adaptive Dampers (shared with Civic Type R, uniquely tuned for Prelude)

Brembo™ four-piston aluminum front calipers (shared with Civic Type R), finished in unique Prelude Blue

19-inch Berlina Black alloy wheels with 235/40R19 tires

LED headlights and taillights

Smart entry

Push-button start

Leather upholstery

Heated front sport seats

Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel with alloy shift paddles

Sport pedals

2+2 Seating with 60/40 split fold-down rear seat

10.2-inch digital instrument cluster

9-inch Color Touchscreen HMI system

8-speaker Bose premium sound system

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility

Qi-compatible wireless phone charging

Bluetooth® phone and streaming audio

Two dash-mounted USB port (3.0C)

Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, including: Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Pedestrian Detection Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) incorporating Lane Departure Warning (LDW) Driver Attention Monitor Rear Cross Traffic Monitor Blind Spot Information System (BSI) Auto High-Beam Headlights Traffic Jam Assist Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR) Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)

Advanced front airbags

Front knee airbags

Front side impact airbags

Side curtain airbags

Rear side-impact airbags

Rear seatbelt reminder

Rear seat reminder

Post-Collision Braking System (PCB)

Important Notice
Although the information included in this press release is accurate as of the date of publication, this information is subject to change at any time without notice. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. assumes no responsibility for updating this information.

1. Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings; use for comparison purposes only; your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery condition, and other factors.
2. Total system horsepower as measured by the peak, concurrent output of the two electric motors and gasoline engine using ISO-compliant method.

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