Honda Prelude returns after 24 years, the sixth-generation Prelude will be released in Japan

[PCauto] According to official information from Honda, Honda officially launched the all-new sixth-generation Prelude in the Japanese market on September 5, marking the return of this iconic sports car series as a hybrid model after 24 years of discontinuation.

The monthly sales target for the Japanese market is set at 300 units, with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of 6,179,800 yen (approximately 177,000 MYR).

Design Concept of the Sixth-Generation Honda Prelude

The new car adopts the "Unlimited Glide" design concept, inspired by the unrestricted flying posture of a glider, positioning itself as an exclusively hybrid sports car for the electric vehicle era, equipped with an upgraded e:HEV hybrid system.

The exterior design of the all-new Prelude emphasizes a low-profile pointed front end and smooth body lines, aiming to create the aerodynamic sensation of gliding.

The front end features LED headlights inspired by gliders, including Adaptive Driving Beam and Active Cornering Light functions, enhancing night driving visibility.

The seamless roof design, achieved through laser welding technology, along with the printed glass antenna, ensures smooth and fluid roof lines.

The vehicle offers four exterior color options: Crystal Black Pearl, Flame Red, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, and Moonlit White Pearl. Among them, Moonlit White Pearl is a new color developed by Honda specifically for the Prelude, enhanced with a special mica base layer treatment to deepen the color.

Prelude Interior Design Highlights Sporty Driving Experience

The interior adopts a blue and white dual-tone theme, with a touchable gradient white material on the dashboard. The front seats are embroidered with Prelude logos, paired with a D-shaped steering wheel and alloy paddle shifters.

The fully digital instrument cluster and low horizontal visibility layout, specially designed for the Prelude, enhance the sporty driving experience.

The vehicle adopts a 2+2 seating layout, with the driver seat focused on sporty support, while the passenger seat emphasizes comfort. The trunk space performs excellently, capable of accommodating two medium-sized suitcases. The rear seats support 60/40 split folding, making room for two golf bags or surfboards.

In terms of safety, the Honda SENSING system is standard, including features such as Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and 16 other functions. The infotainment system is equipped with a 9-inch Honda CONNECT display, integrated with Google services like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. The audio system features an 8-speaker Bose premium sound system with dynamic speed compensation functionality.

Prelude Debuts with Honda S+ Shift

Prelude incorporates dual-axis MacPherson front suspension, widened track, and Brembo front brake system.

The power system is expected to be based on the Civic e:HEV's 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle direct-injection gasoline engine paired with a dual-motor hybrid system.

The most innovative feature is the newly introduced Honda S+ Shift control system, which simulates the shifting sensation of an 8-speed transmission in the motor-driven e:HEV system without a mechanical gearbox, achieving direct drive response through precise engine speed control.

The Honda S+ Shift system, combined with Active Sound Control technology, generates engine speed-synchronized sound waves through the speakers to enhance the immersive driving experience.

The new vehicle is also equipped for the first time with a Coasting Control function, allowing the car to decelerate like coasting in neutral, reducing driver operation burdens.

It offers Sport, GT, and Comfort driving modes, which, combined with the S+ Shift control, can produce six distinct driving experiences. Additionally, a personalized mode allows custom settings in six areas, including the powertrain, steering, and suspension.

All-New Prelude will Be Launched in More Countries and Regions

After its debut in Japan, the U.S. market is confirmed to launch it by the end of 2025. The introduction plan for markets such as the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries has not yet been confirmed, although Honda is already selling various e:HEV models in the Philippine market.

Honda will also offer a limited-edition Moonlit White Pearl & Black two-tone version through the Honda ON online store and provide rental services through select Honda Cars dealerships in Japan. This marks the first time Honda is offering new car rentals through its dealership network.

The Sixth-Generation Prelude Marks a Return After 24 years

The history of the Prelude series dates back to 1978, and the sixth-generation model marks a return after 24 years. It is also the first in the series to adopt a hybrid power system.

Honda positions this car as the "Prelude" for sporty vehicles in the era of electrification, hinting at the future direction of the brand's sporty vehicles. Amid increasingly stringent environmental regulations, it aims to maintain driving pleasure through hybrid technology.