2026 Honda Prelude Hybrid Model Boasts 270 HP, Explore Cutting-Edge Features

May 04, 2024 12:51 AM EDT

CLOSE UP OF A HONDA PRELUDE — (Photo : PEXELS/Vitali Adutskevich)

Honda created quite a stir at the most recent Tokyo Auto Show when they unveiled their thrilling concept car, the eagerly awaited 2026 Honda Prelude Hybrid. According to rumors, this car will use the e-HEV hybrid four-cylinder engine that is found in Civic and Accord models. Although Honda has not yet released any official information regarding the U.S. release, fans are excitedly awaiting the arrival of this ground-breaking addition to the Honda portfolio.

2026 Honda Prelude Hybrid Unleased

Similar to existing Honda sport vehicles, it will feature front-wheel drive. Its dimensions are expected to be similar to those of the Toyota GR 86 and Subaru BRZ, according to a report from Japan. The previous model had 200 horsepower when it was released in 2001.

According to Auto123, the same 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that powers the Accord Hybrid is reportedly being used. It produces 207 horsepower altogether. The 2026 Honda Prelude hybrid is 169.3 inches in length, which is significantly less than a Ford Mustang's 189.4 inches. This measurement looks back to the proportions of the original Preludes from the 1980s.

Auto123 has additionally mentioned the uncertainty surrounding the availability of the 2026 Honda Prelude hybrid in Canada, with official confirmation still pending. But a positive indication is its display at the Los Angeles Auto Show the previous autumn. It is possible that enthusiasts may have to wait for the model to go on sale until later in 2025.

More About This Hybrid

According to insights shared by CarScoops, Honda made waves in the automotive scene when it revealed the stylish Prelude Concept during last year's Japan Mobility Show, confirming its transition into a production model. Despite initial expectations of significant power, the latest information indicates that Honda isn't aiming for high horsepower figures with the 2026 Honda Prelude hybrid.

According to reports from BestCarWeb, it will use the well-known 2.0-liter four-cylinder e-HEV hybrid engine, which is perhaps tweaked to produce 207 horsepower, that is present in the Civic and Accord models.

Moreover, the reports shares that an electric continuously variable transmission-as opposed to a conventional automatic or dual-clutch transmission-is anticipated for the 2026 Honda Prelude. This suggests that there is no option for a manual stick shift, which could be considered a disadvantage.

It's crucial to remember that these specs might only apply to the Japanese model, and other international markets might see differences. The pricing of the upcoming 2026 Honda Prelude is anticipated to fall within the range of 4.2 million yen to 4.5 million yen, approximately translating to $27,300 to $29,400, positioning it slightly higher in cost compared to the GR 86.

Honda has confirmed that the Prelude is being produced in both left- and right-hand drive configurations. The new coupe is most certainly going to be sold in the US, even though no other information was made public.

In the meantime, Motor1.com reports that the Prelude is projected to launch in the latter part of 2025, and it's not set to be the most high-performance or agile vehicle, so expectations for track-day performance should be managed. Furthermore, Honda's intentions regarding its availability in the United States remain uncertain.