Does the Honda Prelude come in automatic?
Yes. The Honda Prelude was offered with automatic transmissions across many model years, though the sportier trims often favored manual shifting.
The Prelude, a stylish two-door coupe that ran from 1978 through 2001 in five generations, was sold in various markets with different transmission choices. This article reviews how transmission options evolved over its history and what buyers could expect in each generation.
Transmission options by generation
Below is a broad look at how automatic and manual transmissions were offered across the Prelude’s five generations. Availability varied by year, trim, and market.
- First generation (1978–1982): Generally offered with manual transmissions; an automatic option existed in some markets or trims.
- Second generation (1983–1987): Both manual and automatic transmissions were commonly available in US and other markets.
- Third generation (1988–1991): Offered with manual and automatic transmissions across most trims.
- Fourth generation (1992–1996): Continued availability of both manual and automatic options, with select trims emphasizing performance manual gearboxes.
- Fifth generation (1997–2001): Both manual and automatic transmissions were available; some higher-performance variants still favored manual shifting among enthusiasts.
In practice, the choice depended on the market, trim level, and the buyer’s preference. Automatics offered ease of use in daily driving, while manuals appealed to drivers seeking more engagement, particularly on the sportier models.
Notable notes
While the overall trend across the Prelude lineup was to offer both transmission types, some high-performance or special-edition variants historically favored manual transmissions, emphasizing driving dynamics over convenience. Buyers should verify the specific year and trim to confirm the available transmission for that car.
Summary
The Honda Prelude was produced from 1978 to 2001 and offered with automatic transmissions in many trims across generations, with manual transmissions also widely available. When shopping for a Prelude, check the model year and trim to confirm whether an automatic or manual transmission is included.
Is the Honda Prelude automatic?
Prelude shown with Blue/White Leather. The new Honda S+ Shift, alongside four unique drive modes, maximizes driver-vehicle synchronization, simulating a traditional dual clutch automatic transmission.
How much is the 2026 Honda Prelude?
$43,195
Does the 2026 Honda Prelude have a transmission?
A combined system output of 200 horsepower4 and a robust 232 lb.-ft. of torque gives the new Prelude quick and responsive acceleration off the line and out of corners. Notably, the Honda two-motor hybrid system is not equipped with a traditional transmission or CVT.
Is the new Prelude a manual?
The Honda Prelude has rightfully returned to its place in the brand's lineup, but a critical piece of what many of us would consider the performance puzzle is missing: a stick shift. And that's not likely to change, because the electrified Honda Prelude won't ever come with a manual transmission.
