The 2026 Honda Prelude has been generating a lot of buzz since the brand unveiled it as a concept car back in 2023. The name may sound familiar: the Prelude previously existed as a two-door, gas-powered sports coupe. That version was put to rest in 2001, with the Accord and Civic coupes following suit in 2017 and 2020, respectively. The 2026 Prelude is expected to fill the gap the loss of these vehicles created. While it maintains certain beloved features of the original model, it has been totally transformed visually and technologically to suit modern drivers’ preferences and adhere to Honda’s goal of sustainability.
What Type of Car Is the 2026 Honda Prelude?
Just like the original, the 2026 Honda Prelude is a sleek, performance-oriented two-door coupe. While it draws on the rich history of the original Prelude, the new model takes a modern approach with an electric powertrain, updated design, advanced technology, and innovative performance features. With its agile handling and aerodynamic design, the Prelude is set to rekindle the excitement of the brand’s previous sports coupe models.
Is the 2026 Honda Prelude Gas or Electric?
One of the biggest questions surrounding the 2026 Honda Prelude is whether it’ll be gas-powered or electric. The new model will be available with a hybrid and a fully electric version. Honda is moving towards more sustainable driving solutions, and the Prelude will reflect this commitment with eco-friendly powertrains.
The standard Prelude is likely to be front-wheel drive and get at least 204 hp, but likely more since it is meant to be a sports car. The hybrid will likely incorporate a similar system to the Honda Accord hybrid, which uses a 2.0 L four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. That system gets up to 48 mpg on the highway. The Prelude will probably do even better since it is lighter.
How Much Will the 2026 Honda Prelude Cost?
While the exact pricing isn’t confirmed yet, given its performance features and advanced technology, the Prelude is expected to start at around $30,000, with higher trim options potentially reaching up to $38,000. Honda hasn’t announced specific trim levels yet, but it is likely they will want to compete with existing sports coupes, like the Toyota MR86 and the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The Toyota has three trims, and the Mazda has four.
When Will the 2026 Honda Prelude Be Available in the US?
Honda hasn’t announced an official release date for the 2026 Prelude, but it’s expected to hit the US sometime in late 2025 or early 2026. As the date approaches, we will have more detailed information about availability, specs, trims, and price.
Next-Generation Technology in the Honda Prelude
Honda S+ Shift Technology
The 2026 Honda Prelude will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to enhance performance and comfort. Starting with the Prelude, all future Honda Hybrids will be equipped with Honda’s S+ Shift Technology.
Honda S+ Shift is an advanced feature introduced by Honda to enhance the driving experience in its next-generation e:HEV hybrid vehicles. The goal is to provide drivers with a more engaging and responsive feel by simulating gear shifts and synchronizing engine sounds with vehicle speed.
Key Features of Honda S+ Shift:
- Simulated Gear Shifts: Despite the absence of a traditional transmission, S+ Shift emulates gear changes during acceleration and deceleration to simulate a sporty and dynamic driving sensation.
- Enhanced Engine Sound: The system utilizes Active Sound Control (ASC) to amplify engine sounds through the vehicle’s speakers and synchronize the auditory experience with engine RPM and vehicle speed.
- Paddle Shifters: Drivers can manually control simulated gear shifts using paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel, providing a hands-on driving experience.
- Improved Acceleration Response: By precisely managing engine RPM and electric motor output, S+ Shift delivers immediate feedback to driver inputs, enhancing acceleration responsiveness.
Honda’s naming of the system is both literal and figurative. The “S” in S+ Shift reflects Honda’s longstanding “sports spirit,” evident in models like the S600 and S2000, while the “+” signifies added value such as Synchronization and Sensation. “Shift” denotes a transition into a future where users rediscover the “joy of driving.”
Following its introduction in the 2026 Prelude, Honda plans to incorporate S+ Shift across all future e:HEV models, aiming to provide an exhilarating and immersive driving experience throughout its hybrid lineup.
Test Drive a Honda Hybrid in Denver
While the 2026 Honda Prelude may not yet be available for test drives, you can experience the next best thing by checking out the 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid Sport at Mile High Honda. Though it’s a 4-door sedan and not a 2-door coupe, the Accord Hybrid Sport offers a similar hybrid driving experience with a sporty edge. With Honda’s hybrid technology, you’ll get a taste of the smooth, responsive power that will define the upcoming Prelude. If you’re interested in experiencing the latest in hybrid technology and performance, visit Mile High Honda to get a glimpse of what the Prelude will bring to the road.
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