Is the new Prelude coming to the US?
As of the latest information publicly available, there is no official confirmation that a new Honda Prelude is coming to the United States. Honda has not announced a revival of the two-door coupe, and the brand’s current roadmap emphasizes electrification and mainstream crossovers rather than reviving historic nameplates. This article outlines what is known today and what to watch for in the US market.
Background: the Prelude name and market context
The Honda Prelude was a popular two-door sports coupe sold from 1978 through 2001, famous for its handling and sporty character. Since its discontinuation, Honda has not revived the model name in any official capacity. In recent years, automakers have occasionally revived old names, but Honda’s public plans have largely focused on electrification and its core lineup rather than reintroducing a two-door coupe under the Prelude badge.
What has Honda publicly said?
Before outlining what is known, this section summarizes official statements and documented actions up to the latest public information:
- Honda announced the Prologue, its first dedicated electric SUV for the US market, with a launch planned for 2024; there has been no mention of a Prelude to accompany or replace it.
- There has been no official roadmap or press release indicating a Prelude successor or revival in any market, including the US.
- Honda’s recent product strategy centers on electrification, crossovers, and mainstream sedans rather than a revival of the two-door coupe segment.
These items strongly suggest that, at present, the Prelude name is not part of Honda’s US plans, though brand strategies can evolve with market conditions.
What would need to happen for a Prelude revival?
Industry observers consider several factors before reviving a classic nameplate for a US audience. The list below highlights the conditions that would make a Prelude revival more plausible:
- Official confirmation from Honda management that a new Prelude is in development for the US market.
- A clear market positioning as a modern coupe or as a sport-oriented variant within an existing Honda lineup.
- A credible powertrain strategy that aligns with Honda’s electrification goals (hybrid or electric).
- A feasible timing and pricing plan that reflects demand for two-door sport coupes in the US.
Absent these signals, a Prelude revival remains uncertain in the near term, though product plans can shift with consumer demand and competitive dynamics.
What should US buyers expect in the near term?
Even without a Prelude revival, US buyers should watch Honda’s broader strategy: continued electrification, expansion of the Prologue into additional markets, and updates to Civic, Accord, and CR-V with new powertrains and features. The US market is prioritizing electrification and practical crossovers, which shapes how Honda allocates resources and names.
For the latest news, monitor Honda’s official newsroom and trusted automotive outlets, as any announcement about the Prelude name would be communicated through those channels.
Summary
There is no confirmed plan for a new Prelude to reach the US market at this time. Honda’s publicly stated direction centers on electrification and its Prologue EV, with no official indication of reviving the Prelude name. Readers should rely on official Honda communications for updates, as the situation could change if the brand decides to pursue a revival.
Is the 2026 Honda Prelude gas?
The Prelude looks fun and frugal. It uses regular gas and is EPA-rated for 44 mpg combined, which is 46 mpg city and 41 mpg highway. In contrast, the roomier Civic Si is EPA-rated at 31 mpg combined and requires premium gas. The Prelude shares its front Brembo brake calipers with the Civic Type R.
When can I buy 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.
Will the Honda Prelude be available in the USA?
Honda Confirms the New Prelude is Coming to America 2026. What we know! Leading the charge when it comes to performance, the Prelude is presented with exclusive Linear Shift Control, specific to the vehicle, and which gives the coupe the feel of a conventional drivetrain shifting gears at wide open throttle.
What is the new Honda for 2026?
For the 2026 model year, Honda is updating several key models, including a redesigned Passport and significant updates for the CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, HR-V, and Pilot. The brand is also bringing back the iconic Prelude as a sporty, hybrid coupe, and the 0 Series global EV lineup is expected to have its first models arrive in North America in 2026. The Prologue is expected to be unchanged, while the Ridgeline will receive minor updates.
This video provides a detailed overview of the new Honda Prelude concept: 1mMVP AutoYouTube · Jul 12, 2025
Key 2026 Honda updates
- Honda Passport: The Passport will be redesigned for 2026.
- Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid: Both will receive a significant update for 2026.
- Honda HR-V: The HR-V will also get a significant update.
- Honda Pilot: The Pilot is getting a significant refresh for 2026, including new styling and technology.
- Honda Ridgeline: The 2026 model will have minor updates.
- Honda Prologue: This model is expected to be unchanged for 2026.
- Honda Prelude: Honda is reviving the Prelude nameplate with a new sporty, hybrid coupe, expected to be in a similar price range as the Civic Si or upper-trim Civic Hybrids. It will feature a hybrid powertrain, an automatic transmission, and technology inspired by models like the Civic and Integra.
- Honda 0 Series: Honda plans to launch its new global EV series, including two concept models (Saloon and Space-Hub), in North America starting in 2026.
