Will Honda ever make the Prelude again?
The short answer is that Honda has not announced any revival of the Prelude, and there is no official plan to bring back the two‑door sport coupe. The company’s current focus centers on crossovers, electrified models, and mainstream sedans, with no confirmed timeline for reviving the Prelude name.
Historical context
The Prelude arrived in 1978 as Honda’s sport coupe, built over five generations and produced until 2001. It earned a place in Honda’s lineup as an accessible, driver‑focused two‑door that combined playful handling with practical everyday usability. Over the years, the Prelude developed a loyal following among enthusiasts, even as the automotive market shifted toward four‑doors, SUVs, and electrification.
Here is a brief timeline of the Prelude's generations and approximate production years.
- First generation: 1979–1982
- Second generation: 1983–1987
- Third generation: 1988–1991
- Fourth generation: 1992–1996
- Fifth generation: 1997–2001
Across its history, the Prelude combined a nimble chassis with advanced tech for its era, but demand for two‑door coupes waned as consumers shifted toward SUVs and crossovers.
Current market reality
Today, Honda’s lineup emphasizes the Civic, Accord, CR‑V, and an expanding family of electrified models. A revival would require a strong business case that balances engineering costs, platform readiness, and consumer demand for a modern two‑door sporty coupe in a market dominated by crossovers and four‑door designs.
Is a revival likely in the current market?
The following factors shape Honda’s decision on reviving the Prelude or not.
- Market demand for a two‑door coupe remains niche. Enthusiasts are vocal, but mainstream buyers have moved toward four‑door practicality.
- Honda’s product strategy prioritizes SUVs, crossovers, and electrified models, with limited emphasis on new, niche sport coupes.
- Development costs and uncertain return on investment would be a significant hurdle for reviving a legacy name in a crowded segment.
- Competition from other sports coupes and the evolving performance landscape (including hybrids and lightweight performance cars) would shape the viability of any new Prelude.
- Brand strategy and heritage management matter; reviving a nostalgic name carries risks if the product does not meet modern expectations.
In short, a Prelude revival remains speculative and would depend on a clear, substantiated business case and a strategic pivot for Honda.
What could a modern Prelude look like?
If Honda ever proceeds, a modern Prelude would likely blend contemporary powertrains with a driver‑focused chassis and a two‑door silhouette that nods to the model’s heritage. Possible directions include leveraging Honda’s current platforms, electrification capabilities, and safety/infotainment technology while delivering a distinctive, engaging driving experience.
- Powertrain: a turbocharged four‑cylinder with hybrid assist or a dedicated hybrid option to deliver balanced performance and efficiency.
- Platform: potential alignment with current Honda architectures (such as Civic‑based or a lightweight, shared sports platform) to manage development costs.
- Drivetrain and chassis: front‑engine with front‑ or all‑wheel drive, tuned for agile handling and a responsive, driver‑centric feel.
- Design language: a modern, low, wide stance with a contemporary coupe silhouette, while incorporating signature Prelude cues to appeal to enthusiasts.
- Technology: advanced driver‑assistance systems, digital cockpit, and seamless connectivity, matching current Honda standards.
Any revival would hinge on market reception, engineering feasibility, and a clear alignment with Honda’s long‑term strategy for performance and electrification.
Summary
At this point, Honda has made no official move to bring back the Prelude, and there is no published timeline for such a model. The brand’s current emphasis on SUVs, crossovers, and electrified vehicles suggests that a revival would require a compelling strategic case, sufficient market demand, and a careful balance of cost and risk. For enthusiasts, the Prelude remains a cherished chapter in Honda’s history, with the possibility of a comeback staying in the realm of speculation until Honda makes a formal announcement.
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.
Will Honda bring back the Prelude?
Brace yourselves for an exciting revival! After a 25-year hiatus, the iconic Honda Prelude is making its grand return in 2026 as a hybrid-electric sports coupe. Celebrated for its sleek design, impressive performance, and cutting-edge features, the Prelude has captured the hearts of fans since its debut in 1979.
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.
