Honda puts a techy new spin on a revered nameplate with the 2026 Prelude sport coupe, a sleek 200-horsepower hybrid going on sale late this year.
Borrowing its drivetrain from the efficient Civic hybrid, suspension from the raucous Civic Type R and debuting a new system that mimics a manual transmission for sporty driving, the Prelude aims to put a performance spin on Honda’s growing line of hybrids.
Prices and fuel economy ratings will be announced closer to when sales begin.
Honda previously sold Preludes from 1978 to 2001. The sleek and sporty coupes helped establish the brand’s reputation for affordable, efficient and reliable performance vehicles. The ’26 will be the first Prelude hybrid.
USA TODAY vehicle reviews: 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch raises the bar for off-road compact SUVs
The Prelude has a low, sharp front end. Wing-like daytime running lights run from the fenders inboard above slim headlights. the taillights double full-width horizontal lines.
The roof has a “double bubble” profile and fastback rear window. A long hood and short rear deck are reminiscent of earlier Preludes. The rear features a wide stance, flared fenders and hatch for cargo access. Front Brembo brake calipers are deep blue, a shade Honda calls “Prelude Blue.”
The Prelude will come in five colors:
Accessories will include black emblems, mirrors covers, front underbody spoilers and decklid spoiler.
The interior has 2+2 seating, a 9-inch touch screen, wireless charging and 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster.
Honda promises narrow A-pillars and a low cowl for good forward visibility.
Racy touches include a flat-bottom steering wheel with alloy “shift paddles” and sport pedals.
The heated front seats have leather trim, perforated houndstooth upholstery, blue contrast stitching and Prelude logos embossed on their headrests. They have asymmetrical bolstering for driver and front passenger.
The Prelude introduces a new system that mimics the feel of a manual transmission in sporty driving, including rev-matching and gear holding. Honda says S+ Shift will be used on other upcoming hybrids.
The Prelude also introduces Honda Agile Handling Assist, which adjusts powertrain and braking in concert with steering input.
Other significant features include Civic Type R chassis systems adapted for the Prelude’s size, weight and character:
Summer tires will be available.
The Prelude has four driving modes that vary suspension, steering, throttle response, engine sound and more:
Standard safety features include:
Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.

source