The revived Honda Prelude for 2026 isn’t the high-performance coupe enthusiasts might have hoped for. Instead, it’s a comfortable, fuel-efficient grand tourer that prioritizes style and usability over outright speed. While the name suggests a return to the Prelude’s sporty roots, the reality is that this hybrid model is more akin to a refined Civic than a two-door Type R.
Retro Appeal in a Modern Market
The automotive industry is seeing a surge in retro revivals, and the Prelude fits right in. It marks the return of a beloved nameplate after two decades, blending nostalgia with modern hybrid technology. Like many new cars, it features a sleek rear lightbar, a design trend that’s become ubiquitous. The move to revive classic names reflects a broader shift in buyer preferences, as interest in electric vehicles still lags behind expectations.
Design and Market Position
The Prelude’s most striking feature is its streamlined design, which prioritizes aerodynamics. Honda calls it “gliding,” and the car certainly looks the part. Buyers can opt for a £1,390 Black Pack to add aggressive styling elements, but the cleaner look of the standard model is arguably more appealing. The Prelude occupies a shrinking market segment: the affordable, driver-focused coupe. With manufacturers increasingly favoring crossovers and SUVs, the two-door coupe is becoming a rare breed. The BMW 2 Series remains one of its few direct competitors.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Prelude shares its 2.0-liter petrol-hybrid powertrain with the Civic, producing 181 bhp. The 0-62 mph sprint takes 8.2 seconds, slower than the BMW 220i. While initial acceleration feels brisk due to electric motor torque, overtaking requires planning. Surprisingly, the Prelude uses suspension, brakes, and steering components from the now-discontinued Civic Type R. However, Honda has softened the suspension for a more relaxed ride, sacrificing the Type R’s aggressive handling. The steering is sharp but lighter than expected, making city maneuvering easy, though some drivers may desire more weight for engagement.
Technology and Interior
The Prelude’s interior borrows heavily from the standard Civic, offering a relatively premium but not overly exciting experience. The black or two-tone grey/blue upholstery choices significantly impact the cabin’s ambiance, with the lighter option adding a touch of occasion. A notable cost-cutting measure is the cheap cloth material used on the rear seats, a reminder of Honda’s mainstream positioning. The 269-liter boot is smaller than the BMW 2 Series, but expands to 760 liters with the rear seats folded down, accommodating “at least two sets of golf clubs,” according to Honda.
Pricing and Features
The single available trim level, Advance, starts at just under £41,000 and comes fully loaded with features like a Bose sound system, reversing camera, heated front seats, and a digital instrument cluster. The nine-inch infotainment system, while functional with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, features underwhelming graphics and sluggish response times.
In conclusion, the Honda Prelude is a stylish and comfortable hybrid coupe that prioritizes everyday usability over high-performance thrills. It’s a modern interpretation of the classic nameplate, appealing to buyers who want a good-looking, fuel-efficient car rather than an out-and-out sports machine.
