- Hybrid electric model will join Honda’s fully electrified mainstream range in the first half of 2026
- Sixth-generation Prelude will debut Honda S+ Shift technology – further advancing the ‘joy of driving’
- Sports coupe marks the continuation of Honda’s 25-year hybrid heritage, following the launch of the revolutionary Insight back in 1999
Honda has announced the new hybrid electric Prelude will arrive in Europe in the early part of 2026 and will debut innovative Honda S+ Shift technology to further enhance the ‘joy of driving’ offered by the brand’s latest sports coupe.
The Honda S+ Shift will simulate the sound and feel of quick automatic gear changes – helping to deliver the model’s perfect balance of exhilarating driving pleasure to a new generation of Prelude drivers.
Following its debut 46 years ago, the original model was seen as a high-performance showcase of Honda’s cutting-edge technology across five generations until 2000. Picking up where it left off, the new Prelude will offer a compelling blend of style and sophistication alongside an efficient hybrid powertrain.
Hans de Jaeger, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe, said: “The Honda Prelude is an iconic nameplate, and this latest model promises to build on that heritage with our trademark hybrid performance and the latest dynamic technology. All with a view to not only delivering exceptional efficiency, but also the fun-to-drive performance for which this model is known. We are excited for its arrival in Europe following a very positive reception so far.”
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This announcement comes as Honda celebrates a quarter of a century of pioneering hybrid expertise, following the arrival of the revolutionary Insight coupe as Europe’s first mass-produced hybrid model back in 1999.
Ever since, the brand has pioneered the development of petrol-electric powertrain technology, with a range of models that have helped drivers make the smoothest, most convenient, and cost-effective switch to an electrified future.
Today, Honda’s mainstream automobile range is fully electrified, with Jazz, Civic, HR-V, ZR-V and CR-V all available with e:HEV powertrains as standard. Shifting seamlessly between EV, hybrid and engine drive with no input from the driver, they all combine exceptional ease-of-use with a rewarding driving experience, alongside highly competitive efficiency and emissions.