Honda Prelude: the grand hybrid comeback of the Japanese coupe!
- Published on 21/05/2026 18:18
With its new Prelude e:HEV, Honda revives a legendary name in Europe and focuses on a philosophy that combines driving pleasure and hybrid technology.
First launched in the late 1970s, the Honda Prelude quickly established itself as one of the most iconic sports coupes from the Japanese manufacturer. Appreciated for its elegant style, technological innovations, and driving pleasure, it marked several generations of motorists before disappearing from the catalog in the early 2000s. More than twenty years later, Honda is resurrecting this historic name with a sixth generation that is now electrified.
To accompany the first European deliveries of the model, the manufacturer is unveiling a campaign called “Unlimited Glide.” This campaign features the new Prelude e:HEV towing a glider in the air using a specially adapted tow hook. This demonstration is intended to illustrate the philosophy that guided the vehicle’s development.
The Prelude Takes Flight
The concept “Unlimited Glide” originates from the childhood memories of Tomoyuki Yamagami, the project leader of the new Prelude. Passionate about radio-controlled gliders built by his grandfather, the engineer explains that he wanted to capture the sensations of fluidity and freedom inherent in soaring flight in the design of the coupe.
Under its hood, the Prelude features a hybrid e:HEV powertrain developing 184 hp. It combines a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with a dual electric motor automatic transmission, providing a maximum torque of 315 Nm. Honda also highlights the Honda S+ Shift technology, designed to enhance driving sensations and offer more responsive acceleration.
The manufacturer claims to have worked on the dynamic behavior to preserve the sporty DNA of the model. Thus, the Prelude adopts a low and wide silhouette, adaptive dampers, as well as certain technologies derived from the Civic Type R, particularly in terms of the suspension and the Agile Handling Assist system.
You might be interestedin this article:
Inside, the ambiance is designed to be clean and driver-oriented, with a focus on visibility and comfort. According to Honda, this extends the “effortless” driving experience evoked by the “Unlimited Glide” concept.
READ ALSO: An Electric SUV Finally Worthy of Toyota?
This page is translated from the original post "Honda Prelude : le grand retour hybride du coupé japonais !" in French.
We also suggestthese articles:
Also read
