Honda Prelude 2026: Sporty AND Hybrid

After an absence of several years, Honda is making a big impact this year with the grand return of one of its icons: the 2026 Prelude. The North American production version has just been officially presented, signaling that the model is about to arrive in dealerships.

This return is more than just adding a model to the lineup. What Honda has accomplished here is the revival of the sport coupe, a model that has practically disappeared from the automotive landscape. And Honda is taking it a step further by adding an electrified dimension. Indeed, the 2026 Honda Prelude recaptures the dynamic spirit of previous generations, but it benefits from a hybrid system that will add energy efficiency to the pleasure of driving.

An Efficient Engine

Under the hood, the new Prelude features Honda's two-motor hybrid system, which is renowned for its smoothness and efficiency. This system works in concert with a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine. The combination delivers 200 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque, which will be sufficient for vigorous acceleration, as well as a reasonable bill at the pump.

What will be interesting to watch with this powertrain in day-to-day use is a major new feature that Honda is introducing with the model: the Honda S+ Shift device. This is a mode that simulates the operation of a sporty gearbox, with virtual downshifts and amplified engine sound, all with the goal of giving the driver an even more engaging feel.

A Successful Style

What is also captivating about this new 2026 Prelude is its silhouette. Its design offers a low stance with a long hood, pronounced fenders housing 19-inch Berlina Black wheels mounted on 235/40R19 tires, and a profile that leaves no doubt about its performance. The details are meticulous: a black chrome grille, blue accents on the fascias and on the imposing four-piston Brembo brakes, well-defined wheels, and more. Furthermore, integrated aerodynamic elements, like the front diffuser and the flat surface of the hatchback, contribute to the model's stability at high speeds.

The cabin follows the same logic with a driver-focused space that is both sporty and practical. The perforated leather front seats, with integrated headrests and three-level heating, provide support and comfort. A leather-wrapped, flat-bottomed steering wheel with paddle shifters, a 10.2-inch configurable digital instrument cluster, a nine-inch touchscreen for the multimedia system with integrated Google functions, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto applications (wireless connection), as well as an eight-speaker Bose audio system complete the standard equipment. The rear seat is 60-40 split-folding, and the fact that it has a rear hatchback rather than a traditional trunk adds to the model's practicality.

When it comes to safety, Honda makes no compromises. The 2026 Prelude comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite, which notably includes emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic alert. Its structure is partially borrowed from that of the Type R, particularly for the front suspension.

In short, this new 2026 Honda Prelude shows promise. It offers a bold design, a high-performance hybrid powertrain, and advanced technologies, which will undoubtedly appeal to many people.

We look forward to seeing you at the dealership to come and discover the model when it arrives. Follow us to find out when.