Honda Prelude's Controversial Styling Returns

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【Summary】Honda is making a comeback with the revival of the Prelude coupe. The new model, which is a hybrid, has a conservative design and may be powered by a 2.0-liter Atkinson inline-4 engine with a two-motor hybrid system. It will need to have competitive power and borrow suspension parts from the Civic Type R to make an impact in the compact sports car market.

FutureCar Staff Nov 08, 2023 3:17 PM PT

Honda Prelude's Controversial Styling Returns

Honda has surprised everyone by reviving the Prelude coupe, a car that went 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, indicating that the company has plans to bring back the iconic model. The revived Prelude is not fully electric but rather a hybrid, powered by a combination of a gasoline engine and electric motor. However, Honda has not released any further details about the hybrid system.

The all-new Prelude appears ready to compete with models like Toyota's GR86 and Subaru's BRZ. Its design is sharp and well-proportioned, although some may find it a bit conservative. The front light combination seems to have been inspired by the headlight design of the new Toyota Prius. Given that the Prelude is making a comeback after more than 20 years, it would have been interesting to see a more adventurous design approach.

The Prelude has a rich history, with five generations produced between 1978 and 2001. The car's engines evolved over the years, starting with an 80 hp inline-4 in the late '70s and culminating in a V-TEC 2.2-liter model with 187 hp in 1991. The fifth generation, released in 1996, boasted 195 hp.

While specific powertrain details for the new Prelude are scarce, there are rumors that it could utilize the 2.0-liter Atkinson inline-4 engine from the current CR-V Hybrid, paired with a two-motor hybrid system. This setup is expected to produce around 204 hp, although Honda might increase the power output to over 220 hp to match its competitors.

In order to succeed in the competitive compact sports car market, the new Prelude will need to offer comparable power to its rivals. Additionally, it should have a visually appealing design, potentially incorporating some tweaks to its conservative lines. It would also be interesting if Honda borrowed suspension parts from the Civic Type R to enhance the Prelude's performance.