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Honda Prelude Revives a Legend With a Modern Hybrid Twist
After years of anticipation and speculation, the iconic Honda Prelude is officially making its return in September 2025. Enthusiasts and automotive experts worldwide have been eagerly awaiting details, and the biggest question on everyone's mind is undoubtedly: how much will the next-generation Prelude cost? While Honda has not released official pricing yet, recently surfaced leaks from Japan offer a clearer—and quite surprising—picture of its price tag.
Unveiling the 2025 Honda Prelude
Honda positions the new Prelude as a sportier—yet more sophisticated—two-door coupe built upon the proven Civic platform. It’s engineered to capture driving enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of advanced hybrid technology and athletic performance. The 2025 Prelude isn’t just a rehash of past models; it’s a bold step up, both in design language and technical innovation.
Premium Price Point: Prelude Outpaces Civic Type R on Cost
According to detailed reports published by Japanese outlet Creative Trend, the Prelude is expected to debut in Japan with a single, well-equipped trim starting at ¥6,179,800 (approximately $41,000). For those craving exclusivity, the Honda ON Limited Edition—accented by a black roof and premium dealer add-ons—will command an even higher price of ¥6,540,000 (around $43,400).
Paint options further allow for personalization:
- Flame Red or Crystal Black Pearl – No additional cost
- Meteoroid Gray Metallic – ¥38,500 ($256) extra
- Moonlit Pearl – ¥85,000 ($565) premium
Comparatively, the locally built Civic e:HEV with a similar hybrid powertrain is listed between ¥4,094,200 and ¥4,403,300 ($27,200–29,200), while the fan-favorite Civic Type R starts from ¥4,997,300 and peaks at ¥5,998,300 ($33,200–39,900). Even the larger, U.S.-manufactured Accord e:HEV sedan undercuts the Prelude at ¥5,599,000 to ¥5,999,400 ($37,200–39,800).
How Does the Prelude Stack Up Against JDM Sports Icons?
The rumored Prelude price puts it squarely into territory usually reserved for high-performance sports cars. Surprisingly, it surpasses the locally-produced Nissan Fairlady Z, which offers a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 and starts at ¥5,497,800 ($36,500). Even more eyebrow-raising: the Prelude is expected to eclipse the Toyota GR Supra’s entry-level variant. Despite being manufactured overseas at Magna Steyr in Austria (alongside the BMW Z4), the GR Supra starts at just ¥4,995,000 ($33,200) with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder.
If these projections hold true, Honda will be asking its loyal fanbase to pay a premium that stretches beyond the traditional reach of its brand—a testament to Prelude’s ambitious new direction and its advanced hybrid technology.
2025 Honda Prelude Key Specifications and Features
Hybrid Powertrain & Chassis Enhancements
Under the hood, the revived Prelude will utilize an upgraded version of Honda’s e:HEV self-charging hybrid system. The heart of this coupe is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to two electric motors, offering a balance of spirited performance and impressive efficiency. Notably, the Prelude borrows high-performance components from the Civic Type R, such as:
- Wider track widths for improved stability
- Brembo front brakes for exceptional stopping power
- Dual-axis front suspension system, specially tuned for Prelude dynamics
Interior & Comfort
Honda has ensured the new Prelude is appointed with high-end features even in the base model. Highlights include:
- 19-inch black alloy wheels
- Adaptive dampers & Honda S+ shift system
- Metal paddle shifters for a sporty drive
- 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster
- 9-inch infotainment display with built-in Google integration
- Ambient lighting and dual-zone climate control
- Heated front seats finished in a combination of leather and suede
An interesting note: while the driver’s seat focuses on bolstered support, the passenger seat prioritizes softness and comfort, showing Honda’s focus on both performance driving and grand touring comfort.
Market Position: Limited Production & Global Availability
Honda will officially unveil the new Prelude on September 4, 2025, with Japanese orders beginning September 5. According to leaked documentation, the initial production run will be capped at just 2,000 units, promising exclusivity for early adopters. This limited availability will be a key indicator of market demand for a premium-priced Honda coupe amid a competitive import sports car landscape.
Comparing International Markets: U.S. Pricing Expectations
While Japanese pricing is clear, global Prelude fans are wondering what the U.S. MSRP might look like. If Japanese figures are a guide, the 2025 Prelude could easily surpass the $40,000 threshold in America—potentially making it at least $10,000 dearer than the Civic hybrid. Pricing, however, hinges on production locale and market strategy. For context:
- The Japan-built Civic Type R is $12,700 more expensive in the U.S. than in Japan.
- The U.S.-built Accord costs American buyers $3,500 less than its Japanese counterpart.
- The Civic (soon to be produced in Indiana) currently carries a $3,000 premium in the U.S.
Therefore, expect Prelude’s exact American pricing to be finalized post-global debut.
Conclusion: The Prelude’s Ambitious Return Signals a New Chapter
For car enthusiasts, the 2025 Honda Prelude stands as an enticing proposition: a hybrid coupe bearing high-tech features, sporty hardware, and a badge steeped in history. With performance and pricing both set high, it’s clear that Honda is aiming beyond tradition—targeting buyers who demand both eco-friendly credentials and genuine driving excitement. As the official launch nears, the Prelude is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about sports coupes in Honda’s catalog, ready to challenge rivals like the GR Supra and Fairlady Z both on the road and in the showroom.
Source: carscoops
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