Europe – October 2025 – After a 25-year hiatus, an icon returns. The all-new Honda Prelude e:HEV marks the rebirth of one of Honda’s most beloved nameplates—fusing hybrid innovation, timeless design, and exhilarating performance into a single, harmonious expression of driving joy.
From the moment it was unveiled, the Prelude has been more than a car; it has been a statement of intent—a showcase of Honda’s engineering passion. Now, the sixth-generation model takes that legacy into a new era of electrified performance, driven by an all-new full hybrid powertrain and Honda’s groundbreaking S+ Shift system.
A Symphony of Style and Performance
The new Prelude’s aesthetic is inspired by the effortless elegance of modern gliders—vehicles of flight that embody grace, control, and fluid motion. Its long, low stance and sculpted proportions evoke poise and precision, while its aerodynamic surfaces express the balance between power and serenity.
Beneath its sculpted form lies a sophisticated chassis featuring suspension technology derived from the legendary Civic Type R. This includes adaptive dampers and the latest generation of Honda’s Agile Handling Assist (AHA) system, resulting in a car that responds intuitively to every input—whether cruising through city streets or carving along a mountain road.
“The Honda Prelude’s return has been eagerly anticipated by driving enthusiasts around the world since we first exhibited the concept model back in October 2023,” says Hans de Jaeger, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe. “This nameplate has always been a showcase for cutting-edge and innovative engineering, and this latest iteration is no exception. With its graceful design, innovative Honda S+ Shift, and cutting-edge full-hybrid powertrain, both drivers and passengers will never want their journey to end.”
Honda S+ Shift: Engineering Emotion
One of the most exciting innovations in the Prelude e:HEV is Honda S+ Shift—an evolution of the brand’s renowned Linear Shift Control technology. Designed to simulate the feel and sound of rapid automatic gear changes, S+ Shift introduces a new sensory dimension to hybrid driving.
Working in harmony with Active Sound Control (ASC), it synchronises engine sound, revs, and road speed to create a natural, immersive driving experience. The system mimics an eight-speed virtual transmission that can be controlled via steering wheel paddles, offering enthusiasts a familiar sense of engagement. Downshifts are accompanied by authentic engine braking and satisfying throttle blips—an experience that blends emotion with precision.
25 Years of Hybrid Heritage Perfected
At the heart of the new Prelude is Honda’s proven e:HEV full hybrid system, refined through over two decades of innovation. Pairing a responsive 2.0-litre petrol engine with a lightweight dual electric motor automatic transmission, the 184 PS (135 kW) system offers a seamless blend of instant torque, refined acceleration, and remarkable efficiency.
Drivers can tailor their experience using four distinct drive modes: Comfort, GT, Sport, and Individual—each fine-tuning the hybrid system, suspension, and steering dynamics for every journey.
Glider-Inspired Interior: Crafted for the Driver
Inside, the Prelude’s cabin captures the minimalist beauty and precision of a glider’s cockpit. Every element has been crafted around the driver, offering an uncluttered yet tactile environment that merges functionality with emotion.
Premium materials, elegant blue-accented two-tone themes, and meticulous craftsmanship define the space. The 10.2-inch digital driver display features Prelude-specific graphics and adaptive colour themes linked to drive modes, while the nine-inch infotainment system offers seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto.
An eight-speaker Bose audio system, co-developed with the audio specialist, delivers a rich, immersive soundscape—perfect for long journeys or spirited drives.
Despite its sleek coupe silhouette, the Prelude remains practical, offering seating for four and up to 663 litres of luggage space thanks to a wide-opening hatchback design. Customers can choose from a palette of refined finishes, including Moonlit White Pearl, Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, and Racing Blue Pearl.
Safety Meets Serenity
True to Honda tradition, safety is intrinsic to the Prelude’s DNA. The model features the latest Honda SENSING suite of advanced driver-assist technologies, meticulously recalibrated to match its sporty dynamics. Systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Departure Mitigation, and Lane Keeping Assist provide subtle, intelligent support that enhances rather than interrupts the driving experience.
A New Chapter in Honda’s Electrified Future
With its reintroduction, the Honda Prelude e:HEV bridges heritage and innovation, celebrating the art of driving in an increasingly electrified world. It is a statement that Honda’s commitment to performance, emotion, and engineering excellence remains as strong as ever.
The Prelude name returns not just as a car—but as a symbol of motion, emotion, and mastery.
