The Honda Prelude has made a triumphant return to the market, and Honda’s nostalgic gamble paired with hybrid technology is paying off handsomely. Just one month after its launch on September 5, 2025, the Honda Prelude has garnered 2,400 pre-orders in Japan alone.
This figure is eight times higher than initially projected, especially considering the Prelude’s premium price tag, starting at 6,179,800 Yen (approximately $53,000 USD). Remarkably, this price even surpasses that of the Nissan Z (5,497,800 Yen), a sports car boasting a 400-horsepower V6 engine.
To meet the surging demand, Honda is ramping up production. Some Japanese dealerships have temporarily paused accepting new orders as the company accelerates manufacturing to fulfill existing commitments. Honda aims to ensure “as many customers as possible” experience the Prelude, hinting at potential production expansion beyond initial plans.
Interestingly, the Prelude’s primary customer base is not the younger generation but middle-aged buyers. Most purchasers belong to Generation X (1965-1980) and the Baby Boomer generation (1946-1964). Many buyers in their 50s and 60s are drawn to the Prelude due to fond memories of its earlier iterations. They’re eager to relive their youth, even though the new model is less powerful than its predecessors. It retains the elegance and practicality that made the Prelude iconic.
In terms of color preferences, most buyers opt for understated tones. Specifically, 63% choose Moonlight White Pearl, 16% select Meteoroid Gray Metallic, 11% go for Crystal Black Pearl, and only 10% prefer Flame Red.
The white Honda Prelude is the most popular choice.
The new Honda Prelude is built on the same platform as the Civic, eschewing a traditional gearbox in favor of dual electric motors for propulsion. These motors are powered by a gasoline-driven generator.
Honda has introduced the “S+ Shift” system, which simulates the sporty shifting feel of a manual transmission. The front suspension features a dual-axis setup and active dampers borrowed from the Honda Civic Type R, enhancing agility and handling.
Under the hood, the Prelude is equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 182 Nm of torque. This is complemented by an electric motor generating 181 horsepower and 315 Nm of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 200 horsepower and 315 Nm of torque.
The interior of the Honda Prelude.
The new Honda Prelude is slated for international release, including the U.S., later this fall. Honda hopes this coupe will strike a balance between nostalgia and innovation, marking a new era in fuel-efficient sports cars.
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