Honda’s sports coupe, the Prelude, which was once synonymous with the “date car” and took the world by storm, will be revived in the fall of 2025 with a full model change for the first time in 24 years!
The new Prelude caused a big stir when its concept model was unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. Anticipation grew with each subsequent unveiling at motor shows around the world, including the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and finally, on January 10, 2025, the “Prelude Prototype,” a car close to the production model, made its world debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025.
The new Prelude inherits the sporty coupe style that has been passed down since the first generation, while being reborn as an advanced hybrid sports car that makes full use of modern technology.It is not only environmentally friendly, but also delivers an emotional driving experience that moves the driver’s heart, making it a sports coupe for a new era.
Honda’s new Prelude: Return after 24 years! Detailed information
overview
- A sports coupe scheduled for release in the fall of 2025
- First full model change in approximately 24 years
- First hybrid vehicle (equipped with next-generation e:HEV)
- A new-generation sports car that pursues the “joy of driving”
Hybrid system
- Equipped with next-generation hybrid system “e:HEV”
- High-efficiency engine and high-output motor combine excellent fuel economy and powerful acceleration
- First to feature the newly developed “Honda S+ Shift”
- Despite being a CVT, it achieves a direct acceleration feeling similar to that of a stepped gear.
- Gear shifting is possible with paddle shifters
- Creates an uplifting feeling with sounds that correspond to engine speed
- Linked with the meter display, it enhances the sense of unity with the car.
Exterior
- Sporty and aggressive coupe style
- Thin headlights, low hood and LED light bar
- The rear features a horizontal tail lamp that connects the left and right sides.
- The prototype unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 is based on the concept model and features aero parts.
interior
- Latest digital meter and head-up display (concept model)
- Large infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support (concept model)
- A large moonroof creates an open interior space (concept model)
safety equipment
- Honda SENSING, the latest advanced safety driving support system, is standard equipment.
others
- In the carbon-neutral era, pursuing the “joy of driving” even as autonomous driving technology becomes more widespread
- Revamping the image of the old “date car” and gaining new fans
A hybrid system that pursues driving pleasure
The new Prelude is equipped with the next-generation hybrid system “e:HEV,” which combines a highly efficient engine with a high-output motor to achieve both excellent fuel economy and powerful acceleration.
Furthermore, the new Prelude will be the first to feature Honda’s newly developed “Honda S+ Shift.” This technology precisely controls engine speed, achieving a direct acceleration feeling similar to that of a stepped gear, even though the vehicle is a CVT. Drivers can enjoy gear changes using the paddle shifters, providing a sportier driving experience.
“Honda S+ Shift” works in conjunction with Active Sound Control, which generates a powerful sound according to engine speed, further enhancing the driver’s sense of exhilaration. The meter display is also linked to this system, amplifying the sense of unity with the car, and providing the finely tuned control that only Honda can provide.
Sporty and sophisticated exterior design
The Prelude Prototype unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 is a customized model based on the Prelude Concept unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show, with aerodynamic parts added to the front and rear. The exterior, which gives a sportier and more aggressive impression, hints at the driving potential of the new Prelude.
The concept model features thin headlights and a low-profile hood with an LED light bar running through it, emphasizing a low center of gravity and wide stance. The rear features horizontally connected taillights, creating an advanced image. It is expected that these design elements will be further refined in the production model, resulting in even more attractive styling.
An interior that combines comfort and innovation
Unfortunately, the interior of the Prelude prototype unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 was not revealed. However, the concept model was packed with advanced features, including the latest digital meters and head-up display, and a large infotainment system compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In addition, the adoption of a large moonroof creates an open interior space. Another attraction of the new Prelude is that it combines sporty driving with comfort. In addition to these features, the commercial model may also be equipped with new features that further improve comfort and convenience.
Supporting safe and secure driving with the latest safety technology
The new Prelude comes standard with the latest Honda SENSING safety driving support system. Equipped with a variety of advanced safety technologies, such as collision mitigation braking and lane keeping assist systems, it supports safe driving and reduces the risk of accidents.
A new-generation sports coupe
The new Prelude is not just a sports car, but a sports coupe for a new era that combines environmental friendliness, driving performance, comfort, and safety at a high level. Even in the age of carbon neutrality and the spread of autonomous driving technology, Honda continues to pursue the “joy of driving,” and the Prelude is a model that symbolizes this.
The Prelude, once popular among young people, is being revived after a quarter of a century with new appeal. The new Prelude is sure to capture the hearts of many once again and become a car that will shape a new era.
A word from the editorial department
I’m so glad I went to Tokyo Auto Salon 2025! Among the various custom cars and concept cars on display, the one that stood out the most was the new Prelude prototype at the Honda booth.
Seeing it in person, I was overwhelmed by its sporty aura, which was even more stylish than in photos and videos. The low-slung form, sharp headlights, and taillights that stretch out to the rear were all captivatingly beautiful, and I couldn’t leave the spot for a while.
The explanation from the person in charge was very easy to understand, and I could feel Honda’s passion for the new Prelude. I was particularly excited when I heard the explanation of the “Honda S+ Shift” – it gave me goosebumps. It’s truly revolutionary that even though it’s a CVT, you can experience the direct acceleration of a manual car!
Unfortunately, the interior of the Prelude prototype was not made public, but just looking at the exterior, I was convinced that it would be a car that would satisfy the joy of owning one. I can’t wait to see the production model and take a test drive!
At this year’s Auto Salon, I was able to see many other fascinating cars besides the new Prelude. It was a truly stimulating day, experiencing the latest technology and design.
Look forward to the arrival of the new Prelude in the fall of 2025!
