Is Honda going to bring back the Prelude?
No — Honda has not officially announced a revival of the Prelude, and as of 2025 there is no confirmation of a return. The Prelude remains a beloved chapter in Honda’s history, but there is no public plan to reintroduce the badge.
This article examines the Prelude’s legacy, explains why rumors often surface, and assesses what a modern revival would require—from engineering and platform choices to market strategy and brand positioning. It also outlines how Honda’s current focus shapes any possibility of bringing back the two-door sports coupe.
A quick look at the Prelude's legacy
To understand why people still talk about a Prelude revival, it helps to recap the model’s history and what made it stand out in its era.
Generations and key traits
- Five generations: 1st (1978–1982), 2nd (1983–1987), 3rd (1988–1991), 4th (1992–1996), 5th (1997–2001).
- Small, sporty two-door coupe from Honda’s lineup, built around a front-engine layout with an emphasis on handling and dynamics.
- Later generations popularized advanced features for their time, including VTEC engines and, in some variants, four-wheel steering.
Despite its withdrawal from the market in 2001, the Prelude maintains a loyal following among enthusiasts who remember its blend of performance and practicality. Any revival would require Honda to weigh nostalgia against a broader, modern product strategy.
Could Honda revive the Prelude today?
Here we outline the constraints and considerations that would influence any decision to bring back the Prelude in today’s market.
Business and market considerations
- Honda’s current emphasis is on electrification, crossovers, and its core performance lineup, with limited appetite for a niche two-door coupe.
- Global demand for traditional rear- or front-engine two-door sports cars has diminished as buyers shift toward SUVs and EVs.
- Providing a new Prelude would require a substantial investment in a dedicated platform or an adaptation of an existing one, with uncertain return.
- The decision would also need to align with Acura’s performance positioning and brand messaging, to avoid internal competition or dilution.
These factors mean that a faithful revival, if ever considered, would likely come as a limited-run or concept-driven project rather than a full-fledged mainstream model.
What would a revival entail?
If Honda explored reviving the Prelude, several practical questions would shape the concept from day one.
Powertrain and platform possibilities
- Most plausible directions would involve hybrid or fully electric powertrains to fit Honda’s electrification roadmap.
- A new or heavily reworked platform would be needed to accommodate a 2+2 layout, modern safety standards, and connected-car technology.
- Design language would need to balance retro cues that appeal to nostalgia with contemporary aerodynamics and efficiency goals.
Any revival would likely be positioned as a halo or heritage model, with pricing and performance tuned to attract enthusiasts while offering the benefits of modern technology and safety.
What to watch for
There is no official word from Honda about a Prelude revival as of late 2025. Monitor auto-show reveals, investor briefings, and Honda’s product roadmap for any hints toward heritage models or new interpretations of classic badges.
Summary
In short, Honda has not announced a Prelude revival, and there is no firm evidence of imminent plans. The Prelude’s legacy endures among enthusiasts, but Honda’s current priorities center on electrification, crossovers, and performance variants like the Civic Type R. A revival could be technically feasible, yet it would require a clear strategic rationale, a suitable powertrain solution, and a compelling market case before moving from rumor to reality. Stay tuned for official updates from Honda as the company outlines its long-term growth and product strategy.
When can I order a 2026 Honda Prelude?
The 2026 Honda Prelude has an official release date of November 18, 2025, and is now on sale. Deliveries are expected to begin arriving at dealerships shortly after, with availability throughout late 2025 and into 2026.
- Release Date: The official launch was on November 18, 2025.
- Availability: Dealership arrivals are expected in late 2025 and early 2026.
- Ordering: You can secure a place for a test drive by signing up for updates or reserving a vehicle through a local dealership.
How much will the 2026 Honda Prelude cost?
The 2026 Honda Prelude starts at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $43,195, which includes the destination charge. There is also a 2-Tone Coupe model that costs $44,350.
- Base Model: The starting price for the standard 2026 Honda Prelude Coupe is $43,195.
- 2-Tone Coupe Model: The 2-Tone Coupe is priced at $44,350.
What engine will the 2026 Honda Prelude have?
2.0L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder
2026 HONDA PRELUDE SPECS CHART
| Category | 2026 Honda Prelude Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder Two-motor hybrid-electric system |
| Hybrid System | AC synchronous permanent-magnet motor Gasoline engine |
| Total System Output | 200 horsepower (combined) |
| Torque | 232 lb-ft (electric motor peak) |
Will the 2025 Honda Prelude be available in the USA?
The 2026 Prelude, set to arrive in late 2025, resurrects this popular vehicle as something modern drivers can relish – without high fuel costs. While it's too early to take a test drive at Planet Honda, you're welcome to reserve a Prelude; this will allow you to be one of the first to experience it in person.
