In a nutshell: Honda is bringing back its iconic Prelude as a hybrid-electric sports model that will make its way to the US market in late 2025. The Japanese automaker first showed off its modern Prelude concept at the Japan Mobility Show in late 2023 before bringing it to the LA Auto Show the following month.
The Prelude nameplate dates back to the late 70s. The two-door couple borrowed heavily from the Accord and was the first Honda to market with several innovative features including the moon roof. The fifth and final generation Prelude entered production in 1996 and was discontinued in late 2001, just as the import / tuner scene started heating up thanks in part to influential films like The Fast and the Furious.
Honda isn't revealing much about the new Prelude at this time, but the company did say it will utilize a two-motor hybrid powertrain and be the first to use Honda S+ Shift, which it described as an innovative new drive mode that "further advances Linear Shift Control to deliver maximum levels of driver engagement."
S+ Shift will control engine RPM during acceleration and deceleration for improved throttle response and sharp gear shifting. It will also work in conjunction with the Active Sound Control system to pump artificial engine sounds into the cabin through the speaker system. In other words, simulated gear shifts and fake engine noises.
Honda spokesperson Chris Naughton told The Verge that one of the electric motors acts as a generator to create electricity for the battery and propulsion, while the other is a "traction motor" that helps propel the vehicle.
Styling is subjective. IMO, the last-gen Prelude felt a bit unique and was one of the better looking Hondas of its era. The new sixth gen Prelude, on the other hand, has a lot in common visually with other modern sports coupes like the Subaru BRZ and the Scion FR-S.
What are your thoughts on companies like Honda and Dodge reviving classic nameplates for use on modern vehicles? Does it tarnish the brand's reputation at all?