2026 Honda Prelude Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs
Honda Prelude
Key Features
- Starting at $43,195 MSRP*
- Honda two-motor hybrid system (200 combined system horsepower / 232 lb-ft of torque) with Honda S+ Shift drive mode settings
- Brembo™ four-piston aluminum front calipers (shared with Civic Type R), finished in Prelude Blue
- Adaptive Damper System
- 2+2 Seating with 60/40 split fold-down rear seat
- Leather-Trimmed Front Sport Seats with Blue Accent Stitching
- 9-inch HD touchscreen with Google built-in and Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto™ compatibility
- Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies
About the Honda Prelude
Considered one of the most desirable and celebrated nameplates in the history of the Honda brand, the legendary Prelude is making its return after over 2 decades removed from the model lineup. Back for the 2026 model year, the sixth-generation Prelude is equipped with a cutting-edge dual-motor hybrid powertrain that combines efficiency with performance. Upon its debut back in 1978, it was immediately clear that the Prelude was far from your ordinary sports coupe. At last, your opportunity to experience the Prelude and its advanced hybrid drivetrain has arrived! Extensively tested on and off the track, the Prelude provides an agile yet refined ride at all speeds. Its signature 2+2 seating configuration is a true exhibition of practicality and excitement. Equipped with plenty of innovative tech features and the reassurance of driver-assist features, the Honda Prelude caters to the needs of next-gen driving enthusiasts.
What the Critics Say
Honda Prelude Features
Hybrid-Electric Performance
It’s no secret that the Prelude is routinely considered one of the most iconic sports coupes ever built by Honda. Today’s sixth-generation Prelude builds on its reputation for excellence with a cutting-edge powertrain featuring a mix of thrilling performance and impressive efficiency. An additional noteworthy breakthrough of the latest Prelude is its dynamic Honda S+ Shift, a cutting-edge drive mode featuring Linear Shift Control for enhanced responsiveness and engagement behind the wheel. Backed by over 2 decades of internal and real-world testing, the proven dual-motor hybrid powertrain of the Prelude delivers an unparalleled combination of power and efficiency. A testament to its race-winning pedigree, the Prelude shares Brembo™ four-piston aluminum front calipers, Adaptive Dampers, and a dual-axis strut front suspension with the high-octane Civic Type R.
Race-Inspired Styling
Just as its predecessors did, the current Honda Prelude stands out from the competition with a youthful personality that translates perfectly to thrilling performance capabilities. When it debuted back in 1978, the Prelude represented a refreshing departure from other sports coupes currently on the market at the time. You’ll notice its signature design traits which include slim LED headlights, lower mesh front splitter, and vibrant exterior paint choices. A wide rear track combined with a low center of gravity delivers fun-to-drive athleticism and agile handling qualities, made possible by its standard 19-inch alloy wheels. Precise attention to detail while retaining its practicality is a huge part of the appeal of the athletic Honda Prelude.
Driver-Focused Cabin
Ever pictured what it would be like to have an efficient daily driver that’s also ready to take home the checkered flag on the track? This lofty idea has been made into a reality with the Honda Prelude and its driver-oriented 2+2 seating configuration that also offers the versatility of a 60/40 split-folding rear seatback. Taking full advantage of this layout, standard front sport seats with integrated headrests along with leather and perforated houndstooth upholstery provide supportive comfort at all speeds. Additional performance goodies include its leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel with alloy shift paddles and sport pedals. You also can’t miss tech highlights like its standard 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, 9-inch HD touchscreen with Google built-in, and an 8-speaker Bose premium sound system. Even experienced drivers will appreciate the confidence that comes from the standard Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies.
Trims & Specs
Hybrid
- Starting at $43,195 MSRP*
- 200-HP Honda two-motor hybrid system with Honda S+ Shift system
- 4 Dynamic Drive Modes incl. Comfort / GT / Sport / Individual
- Brembo® 4-Piston Aluminum Front Brake Calipers
- Leather-Trimmed Front Sport Seats with Blue Accent Stitching
- 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch HD touchscreen with Google built-in
Hybrid Two-Tone
- Starting at $44,350 MSRP*
- Black Roof and Black Mirror Covers
- 19-inch Berlina Black Alloy Wheels
- Heated Front Seats
- Bose Premium Sound System
- Adaptive Damper System
*MSRP includes $1,195 destination charge but excludes tax, license, registration, and accessories. Dealers set own prices. MSRP does not include $455 or $655 charge for premium colors.
**46 city/41 highway/44 combined mpg rating. 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 and other factors.