Honda’s highly anticipated new Prelude, set to hit U.S. showrooms by late 2024, has taken a significant step forward with pre-production prototypes being tested in Japan. Select drivers had the opportunity to experience the coupe on the track, offering an early glimpse into its next-generation hybrid powertrain, revamped chassis, and enhanced in-cabin features, which Honda had previously kept under wraps.
Refined Yet Familiar Exterior Design
The camouflaged test vehicles bear a close resemblance to the prototype glimpsed during earlier development phases. Changes from the concept version are minimal, with slight updates such as bulkier side mirrors and the addition of new ADAS sensors to improve safety and functionality.
Interior: A Civic at Heart, but Unique Enough
Inside, the Prelude borrows much of its dashboard design from the Honda Civic but introduces distinctive elements to distinguish itself. The center console is elevated, featuring redesigned controls for the gearbox and a dedicated button for the new S+ Shift mode. The front seats stand out with sporty bucket designs, integrated headrests, and perforated upholstery with contrasting blue and white stitching for a premium touch.
While the rear seats are more suited for shorter trips due to the coupe’s sloping roofline and compact wheelbase, Honda compensates with a spacious trunk, accessible through a wide tailgate.
Next-Gen Twin-Motor Hybrid Powertrain
The Prelude marks the debut of Honda’s next-generation two-motor hybrid system, combining a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with dual electric motors. This self-charging hybrid system boasts improved efficiency and a more compact design for the electric drive unit. Honda claims this setup is 10% more efficient than its current e:HEV system, delivering power without compromising performance.
A standout feature is the introduction of Honda’s S+ Shift mode, which simulates gear changes for a more dynamic driving experience, even in the absence of a traditional transmission.
S+ Shift Mode and Engine Sound Enhancements
The S+ Shift mode enhances the hybrid coupe’s performance by mimicking gear shifts and amplifying engine sounds through the car’s speakers. It incorporates torque mapping adjustments to simulate downshifts, providing subtle feedback to drivers via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The engine sound is synchronized with the RPM display on the digital cluster, creating an engaging and immersive driving experience.
Honda’s engineers reportedly drew inspiration from the control mechanisms used in the NSX’s nine-speed dual-clutch transmission. While the simulated shifts lack the intensity of the NSX, they represent a noticeable improvement over the Linear Shift Control system in Honda’s earlier hybrids. The S+ Shift system is set to feature in all future e:HEV models.
Chassis: Civic Underpinnings with Sportier Tweaks
Although the Prelude shares its platform with the Civic, significant modifications have been made. The coupe has a shorter wheelbase, wider tracks, and a retuned suspension to enhance its sporty character while maintaining grand tourer-level comfort. Additional improvements include increased rigidity, better steering stability, and a 10% reduction in weight.
Early Impressions
Initial reviews from Japan are positive, with testers praising the Prelude’s refined balance between sporty handling and smooth ride quality. Many highlighted its steering precision and adaptive suspension, likening it to the Civic Type R. The coupe’s braking system, featuring Brembo brakes paired with 19-inch wheels wrapped in Continental PremiumContact 6 tires, also received commendation for its smooth and linear performance.
The Prelude is set to make a splash at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon before its official launch next year. Until then, it seems Honda’s latest coupe is shaping up to be much more than “just a Civic.”
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