Honda Prelude returns as coupe concept with hybrid powertrain

While the Honda Prelude wasn’t sold locally, Philippine-based fans and enthusiasts will be glad to know that it is back by debuting at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show as the Honda Prelude concept.

Honda Prelude Concept

At a glance, one can see that the concept car is a two-seater, two-door coupe just like the older versions released for other markets from 1978 to 2001. The brand deemed its return necessary to expand its portfolio of sporty cars that can deliver “the joy of driving” amid the age of electronic-powered mobility.   

Appearance-wise, the Prelude concept gets a sharp, pointed front end that’s enhanced by a pair of thin LED headlamp clusters. Blow the sharp grille-less nose is a sleek, black-colored lower bumper that also houses a vent and some aero bits. Interestingly, the overall look of its face carries the same vibes as the one on the all-new Toyota Prius.  

Prelude concept from the rear

The side portion is reminiscent of many other sports coupes in the market right now with its sloping roofline, a semi-circle-shaped greenhouse, and a long hood. Its rear meanwhile, gets a small trunk spoiler and an LED taillight bar. Slightly below the light bar is a smooth section, which then transitions to a black rear diffuser with more aero bits.

Other details that can be seen from the outside of the concept are 20-inch wheels and a set of Brembo brakes. The interior, however, is hidden behind a very dark tint so unfortunately, we can’t provide details for that. 

It is equipped with Brembo brake calipers

Regarding powertrains though, a Honda representative on X (formerly Twitter) has confirmed that it uses a hybrid mill. The brands didn’t say what hybrid engine exactly, but we can make guesses. 

One possibility is that it could use the 2.0-liter hybrid four-cylinder engine used by the US-spec Honda Accord which can make up to 204 horsepower. This can be fitting for the Prelude revival since the older versions are loosely derived from the Japanese carmaker’s mid-size sedan. 

A Honda representative confirmed that it is a hybrid

For those unfamiliar with the Prelude nameplate, it was a particularly capable front-wheel-drive two-seater thanks to active torque vectoring and a limited-slip differential for the special Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) SiTCV version. The Prelude was even tasked to become a Formula One safety car at the 1994 Japanese Grand Prix - a role traditionally reserved for nimble vehicles.

To that end, we can’t wait to see what the future production version can do, though no word has been given by the brand as to when that’ll roll out. Regardless, we’re hoping that a future model based on the concept reaches the Philippine market so that we can get a taste of what Honda defines as the “joy of driving.”

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