Honda has confirmed that the production version of the new Prelude, which was previewed by a 2023 concept car, will be available in the United States in late 2025. The Prelude will be equipped with a two-motor hybrid powertrain, anticipated to resemble the configuration currently used in the Accord, Civic, and CR-V. Honda says that the “S+ Shift” system in the Prelude will make simulated gear changes happen faster. Fans were thrilled when Honda showed off a fast two-door prototype in 2023 under the well-known Prelude name. We can all be happy now that Honda has said the Prelude will be made and sold in the US by the end of 2025. The first Prelude was released in 1978. The sixth generation of the car, the new Prelude, will likely be released in 2026. We do know that the new Prelude will have a two-motor hybrid engine, even though few other specifics are available yet. The great hybrid system found in the Civic, Accord, and CR-V is likely to be used in this. It has two electric motors and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Honda says that the “Honda S+ Shift” feature will “enhance the driving experience” and “deliver maximum levels of driver engagement.” It was also shown off for the Prelude. Honda says that this feature “maximizes the efficiency” of the engine and motor, which makes “sharper simulated shifts” possible. Honda’s hybrid cars don’t have a standard transmission; instead, the power goes straight to the wheels. The driving ratios can change from all-gas to all-electric to a mix of the two without having to change gears. To make the Prelude more fun to drive, though, the cars simulate fake gear changes, and the S+ Shift option will speed these up even more. Honda also says that the changes are “coordinated with active sound control.” This means that, just like with regular shifts, you should be able to hear the rise and fall of revs through the speakers. There is still a lot we still need to learn about the new Prelude, but we think that more details will be available early next year.
