Honda to Begin Sales of the All-New Prelude in Japan
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that sales of the all-new Prelude will officially begin in Japan on September 5, 2025, marking the revival of one of its most iconic nameplates. Serving as both a nod to its celebrated past and a bridge to Honda’s electrified future, the Prelude returns as a hybrid specialty sports car designed to deliver dynamic driving performance alongside modern efficiency. The company has set an initial sales plan of 300 units per month in the domestic market.
A Concept of “Unlimited Glide”
The development of the all-new Prelude was guided by the theme “Unlimited Glide,” inspired by the effortless grace of gliders soaring through open skies. Honda’s engineers sought to capture that sense of smooth, liberating motion, resulting in a car that blends sporty performance with an almost weightless driving experience. The Prelude is also intended to serve as a “prelude” to a new era of Honda specialty sports models as the brand continues to expand its e:HEV hybrid technology.
Exterior Styling: Elegance in Motion
Visually, the new Prelude embraces sleek aerodynamics and a purposeful stance. A low and sharp nose, coupled with sweeping body lines, gives the impression of forward motion even when the car is stationary. The headlight units integrate a wing-like multifunction light, featuring fine molded stripes that extend outward to reinforce the feeling of flight. Advanced illumination technologies such as Adaptive Driving Beam and Active Cornering Lights enhance safety while driving at night.
Further sophistication comes from Honda’s laser brazing technology, which removes the need for roof molding, delivering a clean roofline. Subtle design details — such as flush door handles, a glass-printed antenna, and a black chrome grille — highlight the car’s premium positioning. Blue accents on the front and rear fascias reinforce the model’s electrified identity, while its low and wide proportions establish the look of a modern sports coupe.
Interior Design: Sport Meets Comfort
Inside, the Prelude balances sportiness with comfort for both driver and passenger. The driver’s seat offers firm bolstering for spirited driving, while the passenger seat prioritizes comfort without sacrificing engagement. The cabin color scheme, a striking two-tone Blue & White, echoes the development theme by creating a serene yet dynamic atmosphere.
Attention to detail is evident in touches such as a softly shaded white surface material, an embroidered Prelude logo, and door linings shaped for easy entry and exit. A flat-bottom steering wheel, alloy paddle shifters, and exclusive full-graphic meters remind occupants that this is a driver-focused machine, while still providing refinement.
Package Design and Versatility
Despite being a specialty sports model, Honda has given the Prelude impressive practicality. The wide and low stance is paired with a package design that allows for a usable cargo area. The large liftback opening provides access to space suitable for two medium suitcases, two golf bags, or even surfboards. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats add flexibility, while underfloor storage, hooks, and a movable cargo divider enhance everyday usability.
Driving Dynamics: Honda S+ Shift and Beyond
The new Prelude is the first model to debut Honda’s S+ Shift technology, which simulates an 8-speed transmission within the motor-driven hybrid e:HEV system. Combined with Active Sound Control (ASC), the system produces realistic engine sounds in sync with driver input, creating a more visceral driving feel.
A new Coasting Control system, inspired by the glide of aircraft, allows the car to decelerate smoothly as if in neutral, reducing the need for constant pedal operation in city driving. Multiple drive modes, including Sport, GT, Comfort, and Individual, allow drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.
Built on the Civic Type R’s chassis, the Prelude benefits from advanced hardware such as dual-axis strut suspension, adaptive dampers, high-capacity Brembo brakes, and 19-inch wheels. Enhanced Agile Handling Assist improves stability during cornering, further sharpening the driving experience.
Safety and Technology
The Prelude comes standard with the full suite of Honda SENSING driver-assistance systems. Features include Collision Mitigation Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and more. These technologies have been fine-tuned specifically for the Prelude to ensure natural, confidence-inspiring operation.
On the technology front, the car is equipped with a 9-inch Honda CONNECT Display featuring Google built-in, allowing seamless use of Google Assistant, Maps, and Play. An 8-speaker Bose premium sound system with Dynamic Speed Compensation ensures high-quality audio, whether cruising on highways or enjoying winding roads.
Availability and Pricing
Honda will also introduce a special Prelude Limited Edition in Moonlit White Pearl & Black, available exclusively through Honda ON, the company’s online store. To give more customers the chance to experience the model, select Honda dealerships across Japan will offer the Prelude as a rental car — the first time a new Honda model is available for rent directly from dealers.
The Prelude will seat four occupants and feature a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price in Japan is set at 6,179,800 yen, excluding taxes, insurance, and registration costs. A variety of colors, including the new Moonlit White Pearl, will be available, with additional charges for premium finishes and accessory packages.
A New Chapter for Honda Sports Cars
With its mix of futuristic hybrid technology, elegant design, and practical versatility, the all-new Prelude represents more than just the return of a beloved name. It signals Honda’s intention to carry its sports car legacy into the electrified era while staying true to the brand’s philosophy of making vehicles that are both enjoyable and accessible.
For enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the Prelude delivers on its promise as a car that blends sportiness, everyday usability, and forward-looking technology — a fitting “prelude” to Honda’s next chapter in performance motoring.
