Honda is set to reignite the passion of car enthusiasts by bringing back a nameplate that has been absent from U.S. roads for over two decades. On Tuesday, Honda announced the return of the Prelude, this time as a hybrid-electric sports coupe, slated to hit the American market in late 2025. This revival is not just a nod to nostalgia but aligns with Honda’s broader vision for a sustainable automotive future.

The Prelude first graced the automotive scene in 1978, sharing its roots with the Honda Accord but with a more sporty flair. Over the years, through five generations, it became a symbol of driving pleasure, with the last model rolling off the production line in 2001. According to MotorTrend, the fifth-generation Prelude was known for its sleek design and performance, setting a benchmark for what enthusiasts expect from a Honda sports coupe.

The hybrid-electric concept of the Prelude was showcased at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show and made its North American debut at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, signaling Honda’s intent to blend legacy with modern technology.

One of the key innovations in the new Prelude is the introduction of the ‘Honda S+ Shift’. This technology enhances the driving experience by simulating gear shifts in a car that technically doesn’t have a traditional transmission. According to a Honda news release, S+ Shift works by synchronizing vehicle speed and engine sound, controlling engine RPM to mimic the feel of shifting gears, thus offering drivers a more engaging drive. This feature allows for paddle shifting, providing an illusion of a manual transmission in what is essentially a continuously variable transmission (CVT) setup.

While official pricing details are yet to be released, automotive experts at Car and Driver speculate that the new hybrid-electric Prelude could be priced between $31,000 to $38,000. This pricing would position it as a competitive option in the sports coupe segment, especially for those looking for a blend of performance and efficiency.

Honda’s green vision

The reintroduction of the Prelude is part of Honda’s strategic move towards carbon neutrality. The company has set ambitious goals to reach carbon neutrality across all products and activities by 2050, with a complete shift to battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles by 2040. The Prelude’s hybrid powertrain is a step in this direction, following Honda’s tradition of being a pioneer in hybrid technology since it introduced the first hybrid-electric model, the Honda Insight, in 1999.

Currently, more than a quarter of Honda’s sales in 2024 come from electrified vehicles, with over half of the Accord and CR-V models sold being hybrid-electric trims. This trend underscores Honda’s commitment to electrification. Moreover, Honda’s venture into fully electric vehicles was marked by the launch of the Prologue, the brand’s first all-electric SUV last year. Looking ahead, Honda is planning to start production of a new electric vehicle on a dedicated Honda EV platform at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio next year.

The return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid-electric sports coupe is not just about reviving a beloved name; it’s about setting a new standard for what a sports car can be in the era of electrification. With its innovative features like S+ Shift, the Prelude aims to offer the joy of driving while aligning with global environmental goals. As we approach 2025, all eyes will be on Honda to see how they balance tradition with the future of automotive technology.