Honda Prelude e:HEV Hybrid Coupe Returns to Europe
Honda introduces the all-new Prelude e:HEV sports coupe to Europe, pairing an advanced hybrid powertrain and innovative Honda S+ Shift with a striking, aerodynamically honed design to deliver the "joy of driving" that has always defined the Prelude. After a 25-year absence, the sixth-generation model returns with an exterior inspired by the graceful, timeless form of gliders. At the same time, its engaging handling and responsive dynamics evoke the precision of acrobatic flight.
Honda achieves this dynamic character with a wide, low stance, suspension technology derived from the Civic Type R, adaptive dampers and the latest iteration of Honda Agile Handling Assist (AHA). Together, these elements create a confident, agile hybrid sports coupe tailored to European roads, delivering assured stability, rapid response and a rewarding drive.
Inside, Honda continues this aviation influenced philosophy with a welcoming cockpit that mirrors the clarity and focus of a glider interior. Supportive seating, clever practicality, premium materials and the comprehensive Honda SENSING driver assistance suite combine to keep drivers relaxed, secure, and in control while they enjoy every journey.
Hans de Jaeger, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe, said: "The Honda Prelude’s return has been eagerly anticipated by driving enthusiasts around the world since we first exhibited the concept model back in October 2023. This nameplate has always been a showcase for cutting-edge and innovative engineering, and this latest iteration is no exception. With its graceful design, innovative Honda S+ Shift and cutting edge full-hybrid powertrain, both drivers and passengers will never want their journey to end."
Honda S+ Shift simulates the sound, feel and engagement of rapid automatic gear changes to give the Prelude a new dimension of exhilarating driving pleasure. As the latest development of Honda's Linear Shift Control, it works in conjunction with Active Sound Control (ASC) to align engine sound, revs, and road speed, ensuring that acceleration feels natural, precise, and satisfying.
The system evolves this technology into a virtual eight speed transmission that strengthens the connection between car and driver. Steering wheel paddles, which ordinarily adjust regenerative braking when Honda S+ Shift remains off, allow drivers to shift through the virtual gears with the intuitive involvement of a manual transmission. When moving down, drivers experience reassuring engine braking for finer throttle control, accompanied by a rev-matching throttle "blip" that heightens engagement.
Drawing on more than 25 years of Honda hybrid expertise, the Prelude e:HEV features a full hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a lightweight dual-motor automatic transmission. This 184 PS (135 kW) system delivers strong, instant response, refined performance and impressive efficiency, so drivers enjoy both everyday usability and authentic sports coupe excitement.
At the touch of a button, drivers can choose from four drive modes: "Comfort", "GT", "Sport" and "Individual". Each mode fine-tunes the hybrid powertrain, adaptive suspension, and steering to match personal preferences, from relaxed commuting to focused dynamic driving, with seamless transitions that maintain confidence and control.
Honda has engineered the Prelude chassis to offer superior handling, stability and feedback in every situation. Suspension technology from the Civic Type R, an advanced multi-link setup, adaptive dampers, and the latest generation of Honda AHA work together to balance sharp turns with composed ride comfort, enhancing the hybrid coupe’s long-distance capability without sacrificing agility.
Inside the cabin, Honda creates a driver-focused sense of control with excellent visibility and an uncluttered layout that showcases meticulous craftsmanship. Drivers can choose from two exclusive two-tone interior finishes: white and blue, or black and blue, both of which reinforce the premium, sporty character of the Prelude e:HEV.
A customisable 10.2-inch driver display presents unique Prelude graphics and colour themes linked to each drive mode. Alongside this, a responsive nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay with wireless connectivity and Android Auto integration, complemented by an immersive eight-speaker audio system co-developed with Bose.
Despite its sleek, low-profile silhouette, the Prelude offers genuine everyday practicality. The cabin provides comfortable seating for four, while a large hatchback tailgate opens to reveal up to 663 litres of luggage space, making this hybrid sports coupe a compelling choice for spirited drives, weekends away and daily use.
Customers can personalise their car with four exterior colour options, including the new Moonlit White Pearl, plus Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Racing Blue Pearl, each selected to accentuate the Prelude’s sculpted lines. These carefully chosen finishes highlight the coupe’s dynamic proportions and modern hybrid identity.
Honda places safety at the core of the Prelude e:HEV package and tunes the latest Honda SENSING system to enhance driver support without diminishing engagement. Engineers recalibrate the Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Departure Mitigation System, and Lane Keeping Assist System to suit the car’s more dynamic character while maintaining smooth and intuitive interventions.
This attention to detail runs throughout the new Honda Prelude e:HEV. By uniting advanced hybrid performance, Honda S+ Shift control, refined comfort, intelligent safety and everyday usability, it delivers a modern sports coupe designed to reward drivers across Europe on every journey.
