The Honda Prelude, a legendary nameplate that first graced the roads in 1978, has been given a new lease on life. After a hiatus of over two decades, Honda revealed a hybrid coupe concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, signaling a return for the iconic model.
Now, spy photos have emerged of the production version undergoing testing in Germany, revealing a design largely faithful to the original concept.
With its sleek lines, full width LED bar, and pop out door handles, the sixth generation Prelude boasts a striking appearance reminiscent of the Civic Hybrid in a coupe body.
Under the hood, the car is powered by a dual-motor hybrid system that delivers 200 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. This innovative setup, combined with a naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle engine and an electronic continuously variable gearbox, offers a blend of performance and efficiency.
The Honda CR-V Hybrid’s towing capacity is compromised by its low-speed clutch, which limits it to 1,000 pounds. This is a significant reduction compared to the combustion-only version, which can tow 1,500 pounds.
While towing capacity isn’t a priority for the upcoming Honda Prelude, which is more closely related to the Civic, fuel efficiency is a key factor. Honda claims an impressive EPA rated 49 mpg combined for the Prelude Hybrid.