2026 Honda Prelude Review: The Honda Prelude is making a bold comeback, and no—it’s not a crossover SUV like everything else on the market these days. Instead, the new Prelude is a sleek, low-slung, two-door hybrid coupe that aims to revive Honda’s legendary badge with a future-forward twist. Recently unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and briefly tested at Thruxton, the new Prelude may still be a pre-production model, but it already looks close to the finished product. Designed for the modern era while paying homage to its sporty legacy, this car is built to excite driving enthusiasts and eco-conscious buyers alike.
We got our hands on the reborn Prelude—well, at least for a quick three-lap experience around Thruxton, the fastest race circuit in the UK. It wasn’t a full test, but it gave us a glimpse into what Honda plans to bring to the streets in 2026. With tight production deadlines and a Goodwood showcase on the calendar, the prelude was sneakily driven from the festival under cover of night to Thruxton, just for this brief test drive. The short stint wasn’t about lap times or track performance, but more about getting a feel for the car’s balance, hybrid responsiveness, and driver involvement.
Despite its sporty coupe body, Honda made it clear that the Prelude is not meant to be a stripped-out track weapon. Instead, it represents a stylish and efficient new take on everyday driving. Powered by Honda’s tried-and-tested e:HEV hybrid setup, the Prelude blends performance and economy in a way that’s easy to live with—without sacrificing the visual drama of a true coupe. From what we’ve seen, this could be one of the most exciting Honda launches in years, especially for fans who’ve longed for a return to fun, engaging coupes.
Honda Prelude (2026) – Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-litre petrol (hybrid e:HEV system) |
| Electric Motor | Yes – powers wheels in most scenarios |
| Transmission | eCVT (electric continuously variable transmission) |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Performance | Yet to be revealed, expected around 180–200bhp |
| Interior | Driver-focused, modern infotainment, minimalistic dash |
| Design | Two-door coupe, sleek aerodynamic styling |
| Expected Price | £35,000 to £40,000 (approx ₹35–40 lakhs in India) |
| Launch Date | Early 2026 (UK and global markets) |
| Competition | Toyota GR86, Mazda MX-5 (but hybrid alternative) |
Powertrain and Hybrid Technology
At the heart of the 2026 Honda Prelude is the same hybrid powertrain we’ve seen in the Civic e:HEV. This setup includes a 2.0-litre petrol engine that doesn’t directly drive the wheels most of the time. Instead, the engine acts primarily as a generator, producing electricity to either charge a small battery or power a dedicated electric motor that moves the car. This clever system allows for smooth acceleration, efficient cruising, and lower emissions—ideal for daily drivers who want a bit of fun without the environmental guilt.
At motorway speeds, the petrol engine may take over to directly drive the wheels, but in most urban and normal driving conditions, the electric motor does all the work, offering quiet and responsive performance. Honda’s e:HEV setup has already proven its reliability and efficiency in other models, so it’s no surprise to see it adapted into the sporty Prelude.
Features and Interior
The Prelude isn’t just about performance; Honda has equipped it with a driver-focused interior that strikes a fine balance between sportiness and comfort. Expect a minimalist dashboard, a fully digital instrument cluster, and a modern infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Premium materials, supportive bucket seats, and a low-slung driving position all contribute to a feel that reminds us of Honda’s golden era coupes—only now updated for 2026.
Safety and tech won’t be overlooked either. The Prelude will likely include Honda Sensing technology, which offers adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
Performance and Driving Feel
Our brief laps at Thruxton told us one thing—this isn’t just a hybrid with a fancy badge. The new Prelude feels planted and well-balanced, with good steering weight and a chassis that seems eager to play. While it’s not a track-focused machine, it’s certainly not dull. The e:HEV system delivers instant torque via the electric motor, making it feel quicker off the line than you might expect from a 2.0-litre hybrid.
Honda engineers seem to have worked hard on suspension tuning, giving the Prelude a sporty edge while maintaining real-world comfort. It’s not razor-sharp like a Type R, but it’s poised, composed, and very engaging for everyday driving.
Exterior Design
The design of the new Prelude has been widely praised. It’s clean, elegant, and distinctly coupe-like—a welcome contrast to the SUV-heavy market. With aerodynamic lines, low stance, aggressive LED headlights, and a long bonnet, it carries a premium feel that’s both futuristic and nostalgic.
Honda’s design team has cleverly managed to make the Prelude look athletic without going over-the-top. The rear is particularly striking with LED taillights and a subtle spoiler, giving it a sporty yet refined presence on the road.
Expected Price and Launch Date
The 2026 Honda Prelude is expected to hit UK and European showrooms in early 2026, with pricing estimated between £35,000 and £40,000. In India, if Honda decides to bring it here, it could be priced around ₹35 to ₹40 lakhs (ex-showroom), making it a niche offering for hybrid coupe lovers.
Considering its styling, hybrid tech, and Honda’s brand trust, the price seems fair, especially when compared to similarly priced sports cars that lack hybrid efficiency.
Release Timeline
- Goodwood Preview: July 2025
- Prototype Testing: Mid to Late 2025
- Official Launch (UK): Q1 2026
- Global Rollout: Mid-2026 (Possibly India & EU)
Also read: 2025 Indian Chieftain PowerPlus Limited: The Ultimate Thumping Cruiser for Long Miles
2026 Honda Prelude Review Conclusion
The 2026 Honda Prelude marks a refreshing return to form for Honda—a brand known for driver-focused machines. While the market is flooded with SUVs and EVs, the Prelude dares to be different: it’s a hybrid coupe with style, substance, and everyday usability. It might not have a VTEC scream of the past, but its e:HEV system ensures it’s still very much a Honda at heart—clever, efficient, and fun to drive.
From our short stint behind the wheel, it’s clear that the Prelude offers a balanced driving experience, excellent styling, and a promise of reliability. If you’re someone who misses coupes that are both sensible and thrilling, this car might just be worth the wait. Honda hasn’t just revived a name—they may have revived a spirit.
2026 Honda Prelude Review FAQs
1. Is the new Honda Prelude a full electric car?
No, the 2026 Honda Prelude is a hybrid, not a full EV. It uses a petrol engine and an electric motor with Honda’s e:HEV technology for better efficiency and smooth performance.
2. Will the Honda Prelude come to India?
There’s no official confirmation yet, but if Honda sees enough demand in the premium coupe segment, it could be introduced in India around late 2026 or early 2027.
3. What is the expected price of the Honda Prelude?
In the UK, it’s expected to cost between £35,000 and £40,000. If it launches in India, the estimated price could be around ₹35–40 lakhs (ex-showroom).
4. How does the Prelude compare to the Civic Hybrid?
Both use similar e:HEV hybrid tech, but the Prelude offers a sportier design, two-door coupe layout, and a more engaging driving experience compared to the practical, family-oriented Civic.
