Honda Prelude Returns with Polarizing Design

author: FutureCar Staff    

Honda has surprised everyone by reviving the Prelude coupe, which had gone out of production in 2001. At the recent Japan Mobility Show, a white 2-door coupe with a "Prelude" badge was spotted on Honda's stand. The car appears to be ready for production and is a hybrid, powered by a combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor. However, Honda has not provided any further details about the hybrid system.

The all-new Prelude looks sleek and well-proportioned, although some may find it a little conservative. It seems to have taken inspiration from the headlight design of the new Toyota Prius. The Prelude was first introduced in 1978 and went through five generations before its discontinuation. The power of its engines increased over the years, with the fifth-generation model producing 195 hp.

While specific powerplant details for the new Prelude are scarce, it has been suggested that it could use the 2.0-liter Atkinson inline-4 engine from the current CR-V Hybrid, paired with a two-motor hybrid system. This setup could deliver around 204 hp, but Honda might increase the power to compete with rivals like the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ, which have over 220 hp.

In order to succeed in the compact sports car market, the new Prelude will need to have comparable power to its competitors, as well as an appealing design. Some adjustments to its conservative lines and the inclusion of suspension parts from the Civic Type R could help it stand out.

FutureCar Staff