Honda Prelude to return to Europe from 2025 as hybrid sports car

Honda has officially announced that the Prelude, which was first introduced as a concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, will be reintroduced in Europe as a hybrid sports car.

This marks the first time since the production of the fourth-generation Honda coupe ended in 2001 that the Prelude name will be used on an actual vehicle.

The brand has hinted at the driving dynamics of the new Prelude by referencing models like the Insight and the CR-Z. This confirmation coincides with Honda's celebration of 25 years of hybrid technology.

Tomoyuki Yamagami, the lead project manager for the Prelude, stated to CAR, "In an era focused on electrification and low carbon emissions, we wanted to highlight Honda’s essence of driving pleasure. What better way to do that than with a sporty coupe?"

The upcoming Prelude will feature sleek aesthetics inspired by the concept version, characterized by its compact size and aerodynamic design.

Honda’s design team aimed to keep the car low to the ground and free of unnecessary gimmicks. Yamagami explained, “It’s designed to be low and wide, influenced by gliders, without many superfluous elements.”

Although the interior hasn't been revealed yet, Honda assures a low driving position and confirms that the new Prelude will be a four-seater.

Sporty elements such as Brembo brakes and a classic Honda-script 'Prelude' badge will be included.

Historically, the Prelude has utilized existing Honda technologies and platforms, and the new generation is expected to feature the Civic’s hybrid powertrain. “The new Prelude embodies all the core attributes you’d expect from Honda,” Yamagami added. “We’ve meticulously chosen the technology for this model, envisioning a customer who will use the car both for track days and daily driving.”

While the exact launch date is unconfirmed, it is anticipated that the new-generation Prelude will be available towards the end of 2025.

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