Honda has already confirmed that the Prelude is making a comeback and is expected to hit the market in the second half of 2025. The hybrid coupe, which will be a more elegant and dynamic alternative to the Civic, will have two sportier versions, as reported by the Japanese outlet “Goo-net.” The Prelude may feature a Type S version that will arrive in the second half of 2026, while the more radical Type R variant is expected to debut only in 2027, bringing improvements in design, chassis, and powertrain.
This more “aggressive” variant of the Prelude is expected to be equipped with a more powerful and updated version of the e:HEV hybrid system, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder combustion engine paired with two electric motors, which could deliver over 300 hp, approaching the 330 hp of the Type R.
However, the most significant change in this new Prelude promises to be the absence of a manual transmission. Honda’s e:HEV configuration does not have a traditional gearbox, although the standard Prelude has an “S+ Shift” mode. This system uses sound effects, torque modulation, and paddle shifters to simulate gear changes. In the Type R, this simulation could be further refined to provide a more immersive driving experience.
Although the idea of a Prelude Type R may move forward, for now, it remains speculation, and we will have to wait at least until the launch of the new Prelude to find out if Honda will confirm the possibility of releasing two more radical versions of the model.
