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Honda Revives Prelude Hybrid as It Prioritizes Next‑Gen Hybrids and Tempers U.S. EV Plans

The company pegs new modular hybrid architectures for 2027 after low‑cost U.S. EV plans slipped about five years.

Overview

  • Honda’s 2026 Prelude returns as a two‑door hybrid with a 2.0‑liter engine and two‑motor system rated around 200 hp and 232 lb‑ft driving the front wheels.
  • The coupe debuts S+ Shift to simulate eight gear changes, and early tests report engaging handling with Civic Type R‑derived steering, suspension and Brembo brakes, plus roughly 7.3 seconds 0–60 mph in wet conditions.
  • U.S. pricing is expected near $42,000 with orders opening later this month and showroom arrivals targeted for late 2025 into early 2026.
  • Honda confirmed S+ Shift will roll into upcoming hybrids including Civic and CR‑V on new platforms starting in 2027, which target about 90 kg weight savings, roughly 10% lower production costs and centrally mounted batteries under rear seats.
  • The company showcased new EV concepts in Tokyo but said smaller models are not planned for the U.S., and CEO Toshihiro Mibe cited political headwinds for a roughly five‑year delay to low‑cost U.S. EVs after the limited GM collaboration ended with Prologue and Acura ZDX.