Isack Hadjar cruising in Japan in a Honda Prelude!

The grand return of the Honda Prelude is taking shape with a public appearance in Tokyo on the sidelines of the F1 Grand Prix.

Honda continues to fuel excitement around the return of one of its iconic sports cars. During an event in Japan, the manufacturer unveiled the interior of the new Prelude, a key step before its commercial launch scheduled for the end of the year.

First revealed in October 2023 at the Japan Mobility Show, the Prelude already caused a sensation. Absent from the catalog for over 20 years, this sporty coupe is promised a rebirth in hybrid form, with an arrival planned in several markets, including the United States.

After a notable appearance at the Tokyo Motor Show in January, it was during the Red Bull Showrun x Powered by Honda that the brand revealed the vehicle’s interior. True to Honda’s DNA, the cockpit is minimalist and functional, combining physical controls (buttons, dials) with a central touchscreen. The layout is reminiscent of the new Civic Hybrid, but distinguished by higher-quality materials and a sportier presentation.

The interior, configured for right-hand drive for the Japanese market, features a tilted center console at 45 degrees, making it easier to access key controls such as the push-button gear selector, driving modes, and parking brake. Among the new features is a “S+” button that activates the “S+Shift” system, which optimizes power from one of the electric motors for more direct feedback and smoother driving, eliminating the elastic feeling typical of some CVT gearboxes.

The seats, also new, have prominent side bolsters to secure the driver during dynamic driving. Honda Racing Bulls drivers Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar tested their comfort during a brief run amidst an enthusiastic crowd. An opportunity for our French driver to experience the joys of promotional activities before the race.

This new Prelude, adopting the low and wide lines of the latest generation produced until 2001, clearly draws inspiration from the past while adapting to modern requirements, from electrification to high-end comfort. The return of an icon now seems imminent.

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