Back to the Future: Honda Prelude Returns

Honda plans to reintroduce the Prelude nameplate in late 2025 with a hybrid-electric powertrain.

The HEV will feature the debut of Honda’s S+ Shift, a new drive mode that advances Linear Shift Control. Linear Shift Control mimics the sensation of traditional automatic transmission gear shifts by altering the engine’s revs in a way that feels more linear and synchronized with acceleration. The system creates a closer relationship between the driver’s throttle input, engine speed and the vehicle's acceleration, making it feel more seamless to the driver.

“The return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid-electric sports model demonstrates our continued commitment to offer a variety of exhilarating products to meet the needs of our customers, ” says Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda Auto Sales. “The first three products in the Honda lineup in the 1970s were Civic, Accord and Prelude, and soon all three will be back together again in our passenger car lineup as hybrids. ”

Though overshadowed by Toyota’s Prius, Honda introduced the first hybrid to the U.S. market 25 years ago, one year ahead of Prius, with the Insight. Electrified vehicles now represent more than a quarter of the brand’s total sales in 2024. HEVs currently make up more than 50% of Accord and CR-V sales and the newly introduced Civic HEV is expected to represent about 40% of Civic sales.

The Honda Prelude was a 2-door sports coupe produced by Honda from 1978 to 2001 across five generations. Known for its stylish design, balanced handling and advanced technology for its time, the Prelude holds a special place in the hearts of Honda enthusiasts.

The Prelude was designed as a sporty yet practical coupe that shared mechanical components with the Honda Accord but featured a lower, sleeker profile.