2026 Honda Prelude Road Test and Review

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

The 2026 Honda Prelude marks its return as an all-new sixth-generation model. This hybrid-coupe seats four, blending driving fun with efficiency. It pairs a proven two-motor hybrid system from the Civic with high-performance chassis bits borrowed from the Civic Type R. Key changes include the debut of Honda S+ Shift for a simulated transmission feel plus adaptive dampers for versatile handling.

This vehicle suits enthusiasts who want an engaging grand tourer that's comfortable for daily commutes and weekend escapes without sacrificing fuel savings. It revives the spirit of past generations known for innovation like four-wheel steering while adding modern electrification. If you're after a blend of performance and practicality in a stylish package this coupe delivers.

Muscular and Aerodynamic

The Prelude stands out with its muscular look featuring a low sharp nose and wide stance with flared fenders and 19-inch wheels. Unique wing-like daytime running lights and full-width taillights accentuate its proportions. Blue accents on the front and rear fascias plus Brembo brake calipers give it a sporty vibe.

Flush door handles enhance aerodynamics and reduce wind noise, while the antenna integrates into the liftback glass for a cleaner profile. Advanced aero elements like a ribbed front spoiler and flat rear edge balance lift and drag. The design turns heads while staying true to Prelude's legacy of dynamic styling.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Immersive Interior Comfort

Inside, the Prelude offers a driver-focused cabin with clean lines and front sport seats in soft-touch leather with integrated head restraints and a perforated houndstooth pattern inspired by vintage Honda models. Asymmetrical bolstering provides firm support for the driver during spirited drives, while the passenger side stays more relaxed for everyday comfort. The interior is attractive and comfortable.

Despite being a coupe, there’s plenty of room inside with 42.3 inches of front legroom and 32.0 inches in the rear. It's suitable for road trips or light family use thanks to thoughtful packaging. Two color combos, blue and white or black, feature high-contrast blue stitching throughout. Details like a flat-bottom steering wheel with a position marker and sport pedals add to its visual appeal.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Responsive Power Delivery

The Prelude has a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total of 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. It delivers quick acceleration with smooth response. Power is strong, but this isn't a full-on sports car. If that's what you crave, then go for the Civic Type R instead. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 46 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and mpg forty-four combined, making it efficient for daily use.

The new S+ Shift mode simulates an 8-speed automatic transmission and does an amazing job in both sound and feel with downshift blips and gear holding. This setup performs exactly as a grand touring coupe should, blending refinement with an engaging drive.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Balanced Ride Quality

The Prelude fits its grand touring role perfectly with a smooth, comfortable ride that absorbs bumps while staying composed. Adaptive dampers tune the suspension for different modes from Comfort for relaxed cruising to GT for balanced responsiveness and Sport for a firmer ride. It handles corners with confidence, delivering an enjoyable mix of stability and agility.

Steering is intuitive and precise with quicker responses, especially in Sport mode. The Prelude is fun to drive on winding roads yet remains composed enough for everyday driving. If you want both fun and practical, then the Prelude is a great option.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Hatchback Practicality

There’s 15.1 cubic-feet of cargo room behind the rear seats, which is easily enough for several large bags or weekend gear. The liftback design offers a large opening for easy loading of bulky items like golf clubs. It provides fantastic cargo versatility, making it far more versatile than you’d expect. The 60/40 split-fold rear seats expand space further for longer hauls. A small car like the Prelude is often seen as a compromise when it comes to cargo, but you really have to see how large the space is to appreciate its versatility. While a crossover is roomier, it’s not nearly as fun or as stylish as the Prelude.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Modern Connectivity Features

Technology integrates seamlessly with a 9.0-inch touchscreen with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless smartphone charger and two USB-C ports. The 8-speaker Bose premium sound system delivers clear audio with dynamic speed compensation for consistent quality even as your speed increases. Though this isn’t an especially large screen, it fits perfectly with the dimensions of the Prelude.

The 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster offers customizable displays including a large tachometer in S+ Shift mode. There’s also hands-free voice control via Google Assistant and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The setup enhances the grand touring experience, keeping you connected without distraction.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Advanced Safety Suite

Safety starts with the Honda Sensing suite standard on every Prelude. This suite includes collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. There’s also adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow and traffic jam assist to handle highway driving.

Blind-spot information, cross-traffic monitoring, and parking sensors add an extra layer of confidence when navigating tight spots. It’s a comprehensive safety suite that protects you and your passengers. This full array of standard tech makes the Prelude a leader in coupe safety, offering peace of mind for every drive.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Only One Trim Level

The 2026 Prelude comes in one well-equipped trim priced at $42,000. This includes all standard features like the hybrid powertrain, S+ Shift, leather sport seats, 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, adaptive dampers, and a full tech suite. You get a lot for that price, but there is no way to get a more affordable version of the Prelude.

While that might seem like a lot, consider what you’re getting for that price. This is neither a pure performance car nor a simple highway cruiser. It’s both, with a fuel-efficient hybrid engine and loads of style. While not necessarily a value option, it is well-priced given what it includes.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda

Prelude's winning formula

The Prelude shines with its blend of hybrid efficiency, engaging drive, and stylish design but it's not as aggressively sporty as some might hope. Power feels ample for most yet those seeking pure track thrills should look elsewhere. On the plus side the interior comfort, tech integration, and versatile cargo make it ideal for daily driving. Ride, handling, and S+ Shift elevate the experience turning routine trips into adventures.

We recommend the Prelude for anyone wanting a fuel-sipping coupe that's fun, reliable, and packed with features. It revives the nameplate brilliantly proving hybrids can thrill while saving at the pump. This is a smart choice for modern drivers ready to embrace electrified excitement.

2026 Honda Prelude ・ Photo by Honda