Honda Revives Iconic Prelude Sports Coupe with Hybrid Debut

TOKYO, September 4, 2025 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that it will bring the all-new, sixth-generation Prelude to market in Japan on September 5, marking the return of the storied sports coupe for the first time in 24 years.

Developed under the theme “Unlimited Glide,” the reinvented Prelude combines a sharp, low-slung exterior silhouette with Honda’s advanced e:HEV two-motor hybrid system. The coupe’s design evokes the soaring momentum of a glider, featuring a wing-inspired multifunction headlight assembly, Adaptive Driving Beam, and Active Cornering Light to enhance nighttime visibility.

Under the hood, the Prelude pairs a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. The model employs a direct-drive transmission that simulates gear shifts through an exclusive S+ Shift system, complete with rev-matched downshifts, paddle shifters, and enhanced engine sound in Sport modes.

Honda plans to produce 300 units per month for the Japanese market, with deliveries of the hybrid coupe slated to begin at the Sayama plant late this fall. Annual domestic sales are targeted at 3,500 units, as Honda leverages the Prelude to bolster its broader hybrid strategy through 2030.

Emile Korkor, Assistant Vice President of Honda Canada, commented, “Just mentioning the Prelude brings a rush of nostalgia and fond memories for generations of Canadians that grew up with one of Honda’s most storied nameplates,” underscoring plans to introduce the model to North American showrooms later this year.

Preparations are underway for Prelude’s Canadian launch in late 2025, where the coupe will be offered exclusively in a single high-spec trim featuring Brembo brakes, adaptive dampers, and a suite of Honda Sensing driver-assist technologies. Pricing details will be announced closer to the on-sale date.