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Prelude returns: a classic name reborn as an electrified coupe
Honda has officially brought the Prelude back to Europe after a 25-year absence, but this time the iconic nameplate arrives as an electrified sports coupe: the Prelude e:HEV. The model has already stirred strong reactions in Japan and the US, and the brand is betting the blend of hybrid power, sporty handling and striking design will resonate with European drivers too.
What makes the new Prelude stand out?
Rather than a simple badge revival, Honda has positioned the sixth-generation Prelude as a modern interpretation of the classic driving machine. The car pairs an advanced hybrid powertrain with a suite of chassis technologies borrowed from Honda’s performance toolkit, including adaptive dampers and the latest Agile Handling Assist (AHA). The result is a front-wheel-drive hybrid coupe engineered to deliver both comfort and agility.
Design cues take inspiration from aerodynamic simplicity – Honda says the look was influenced by modern gliders. Clean surfaces, a low roofline and a focused cabin give the Prelude a sleek profile that aims to combine elegance with athletic intent.
Power, sound and the S+ Shift experience
One of the most talked-about features is Honda’s S+ Shift system. Working together with Active Sound Control (ASC) and steering-wheel paddles, S+ Shift simulates the sensation and sound of quick multi-gear shifts, creating the feel of an eight-speed automatic even though the Prelude uses a hybrid e:HEV setup. For Europe, the combined system output is rated at 184 PS (181 hp), a notch below the US-spec 200 hp tune.
Highlights:
- Hybrid powertrain tuned for efficiency and daily usability
- Honda S+ Shift and Active Sound Control for driver engagement
- Adaptive dampers and Type R-derived chassis software for sharper handling
Interior, technology and practicality
Inside, expect a modern cockpit with two exclusive dual-tone themes (white/blue or black/blue), a customizable 10.2-inch driver display and a 9.0-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Bose audio system is available for audiophiles, while rear accommodation is set up for two passengers, keeping the coupe’s sporty ethos intact. Despite the low-slung roofline, luggage capacity is generous for the segment at 663 liters (about 23.4 cu ft), making the Prelude surprisingly practical for weekend trips.
Available exterior finishes include Moonlit White Pearl, Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Racing Blue Pearl. Safety and driver assistance come via a full complement of Honda Sensing systems.
Market positioning and impressions
By reviving the Prelude name, Honda targets buyers who crave driving pleasure without sacrificing efficiency. The Prelude e:HEV will sit apart from conventional sports coupes by emphasizing hybrid efficiency, contemporary technology and a unique sensory package (S+ Shift + ASC) designed to satisfy enthusiasts who miss traditional gearshifts.
Quote to remember: "We aimed to capture the joy of driving the Prelude while adapting it to a more electrified era," a Honda representative said, underscoring the balance of heritage and innovation.
For buyers seeking a compact yet engaging coupe with a modern hybrid heart, the new Prelude provides a credible alternative to both traditional petrol sport coupes and mainstream hybrid sedans. Expect dealer arrivals and pricing details to follow as Honda rolls out the e:HEV across European markets.
Source: autoevolution
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