2026 Honda Prelude Hybrid Review
When Honda brought back the Prelude name, there were high expectations. However, the new hybrid is not fully functional.
Few cars arrive with as much anticipation as the 2026 Honda Prelude. It brings back a beloved nameplate, carries on the coupe body style, and is a new sporty car in a world increasingly filled with appliance SUVs. Mr. Suar, you could say that this car is basically a Civic Hybrid Coupe with a new body, but the Civic Hybrid Sedan and Hatchback are at least better to drive and efficient to boot, especially considering the lack of a manual transmission. But now that we know prices start at over $43,000, we’re putting the brakes on our excitement a bit.
That said, the new performance coupe was a blast during my recent short drive in a prototype. Its chassis feels tuned in the best Honda fashion, and while the S+ shift system may be a little gimmicky, the simulated shifts are at least engaging. Importantly, while nearly every other new hybrid car wears an SUV badge, this one is a sleek two-door. There’s a lot to like about it, but the problem is that at $43,000, it’s very expensive. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Premium starts at $38,430, the Subaru BRZ tS costs $39,530 (effectively with a six-speed manual), and even the BMW 230i Coupe comes in under that at $42,875. Not only are they cheap, they’re all rear-wheel drive and unapologetically great to drive.
Sure, the Prelude’s hybrid setup is unique, but that uniqueness may be its biggest challenge. At that price, buyers looking for performance might opt for the cars mentioned above, while hybrid buyers might stick with more practical options from Honda or Toyota. The Civic Hybrid Sedan costs just over $30,000, and even the most expensive Civic Hybrid, the Sport Touring Hatchback, doesn’t exceed $35,000. At Toyota dealers, the RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD costs $42,605, but even a fully optioned Prius Limited AWD will still leave some change in your pocket.
I can’t help but point out the similarities to the old CR-Z hybrid coupe. The car was fun, efficient, and advanced, but it basically answered a question no one asked. As we wrote when the CR-Z was dropped, “The CR-Z had no direct competitors, filling a niche that no one knew existed.” The Prelude is in danger of suffering the same fate as the sharp, capable hybrid coupes that enthusiasts admire, but few will actually buy, especially without a manual option. History is full of great cars that were off the mark in price and positioning.
Photo courtesy of Honda, Motor Trend staff
