The highly anticipated return of the Honda Prelude now has a firm date its official launch is set for September 2025. To build excitement, Honda has released a fresh collection of images alongside new insights into the car’s design philosophy, plus a range of factory accessories designed to appeal to driving enthusiasts.
While the new Prelude has made several public appearances already, Honda is now offering a deeper look at how it was conceived. Hideaki Uchino, the project’s creative director, joined the company with a personal ambition: to reimagine the iconic Prelude for a modern audience. According to Uchino, the coupe’s form draws inspiration from gliders—sleek, engine-less aircraft that soar using only air currents. This influence is clear in the car’s aerodynamic low nose, flowing body lines, and wing-shaped LED headlights, which stretch across the front fascia to meet a slim, black chrome-plated grille.
Riding on black 19-inch alloy wheels with striking blue brake calipers, the Prelude will be available in a range of colors including Moonlit White Pearl, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, and Flame Red. Honda will also offer a special edition painted in Moonlit White Pearl with a contrasting black roof, sold exclusively online in Japan.
Inside, the coupe blends familiar elements from the Civic and Acura Integra with unique touches of its own. The cabin adopts a 2+2 seating configuration, with a focus on both visual appeal and functional comfort. Project packaging lead Yoshihisa Yanagimoto describes it as “a car you want to drive when going out with someone special.” The driver’s seat has been designed for maximum support, while the passenger seat offers a softer, more enveloping feel. Two interior color schemes will be available: deep blue with white, or an all-black option.
Practicality was not overlooked. A hatchback-style tailgate provides easy access to a spacious cargo compartment, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. Storage hooks and underfloor compartments add further utility.
For those eager to personalize their car, Honda’s Genuine Accessories division has created a “Sports Style” package. This kit includes aerodynamic bumper extensions, a body-colored grille trim, a black rear spoiler, black mirror caps and emblems, and a new 19-inch wheel design (MS-051) with a five double-spoke pattern. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
Beneath the bodywork, the Prelude is powered by an upgraded version of Honda’s e\:HEV hybrid system, combining a 2.0-liter petrol engine with two electric motors in a self-charging setup. A notable addition is the “Honda S+ Shift” feature, which simulates gear changes using sound tuning, torque mapping, and paddle shifters, activated via a dedicated console button.
Although it shares its underlying platform with the Civic and Integra, the Prelude incorporates performance hardware from the Civic Type R, including wide tracks front and rear, Brembo front brakes, and a dual-axis front suspension. However, these elements have been retuned for a smoother, more comfort-oriented driving experience in line with the hybrid’s character.
The new Prelude will arrive in dealerships across Japan, Europe, and North America in fall 2025, with an Australian release scheduled for mid-2026. Regional pricing will be disclosed closer to the market launch.