HONDA PRELUDE GENERATIONS PRESS KIT

Sports cars have always been a part of the Honda story, but the Prelude holds a special place in the brand’s history as a car that innovates as much as it excites. As the name suggests, it set the tone for a long and illustrious line of high-performance coupe models that featured a compelling mix of eye-catching style, exhilarating driver appeal, and innovative technology.

Ever since the original was first revealed in 1978, the Prelude has been at the forefront of Honda’s desire to deliver ‘the joy of driving’ to as many customers as possible. The first ever production car to feature four-wheel steering, it also pioneered the use of technologies such as electronically controlled multi-point fuel injection and active torque vectoring. The latest, all-new sixth generation model continues this exciting tradition.

Just as importantly, the Prelude has always combined style and driving excitement with practicality and efficiency. All versions provided seating for four, while features such as lean burn engine technology and excellent aerodynamics ensured exceptional performance and class-leading economy.

With its sleek design inspired by the elegance of modem gliders, paired with a cutting-edge e:HEV full hybrid powertrain, the all-new Prelude delivers the model’s trademark innovation and excitement to a new generation of buyers.

Prelude - First Generation (1978-1983)

●Made its European debut at the 1979 Amsterdam International Auto Show

●Original 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol included efficient lean burn technology

●Four-wheel independent suspension offered exceptional ride and handling

Launched in Japan in 1978, the first generation Prelude made its European debut at the 1979 Amsterdam International Auto Show. Combining a low-slung two-door coupe body style with a spacious interior that could seat four adults, it delivered thrilling performance and nimble handling. 

It was powered by an advanced 80PS 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that featured a number of innovations, including an overhead camshaft design and a two-valve-per-cylinder layout. In Japan, it also featured Honda’s Compound Controlled Vortex Combustion (CCVC) technology that delivered lean burn combustion and lower emissions than traditional engines.

There was also an advanced four-wheel independent suspension set-up, plus the Prelude was one of the first cars in its class to benefit from the option to have power-assisted steering. It was also available with the optional Hondamatic system that offered the convenience of an automatic gearbox with the responsiveness and efficiency of a manual.

Prelude - Second Generation (1983-1987)

●First Prelude to feature eye-catching pop-up headlamp design

●Available with Formula One-derived fuel injection system

●Safety technology included optional anti-lock braking set-up

Such was the success of the original Prelude that Honda didn’t miss with the winning formula for its replacement in 1983. Featuring a similarly sleek exterior design and a practical four-seater interior, the all-new version continued to offer consumers a compelling blend of style, sophistication and driving excitement.

A focus on aerodynamics saw the introduction of pop-up headlamps, which when switched off lowered flush with the bonnet to create less drag. Inside there was more space than before, thanks to a longer wheelbase, while additions such as an adjustable steering column enhanced comfort.

In 1985, the Prelude was one of Honda’s first models to be available with an engine fitted with its Formula One-developed multipoint PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) system. Other technical highlights included the adoption of motorsport-inspired double wishbone front suspension and the availability of Honda’s first advanced electronic anti-lock braking system (ALB).

Prelude - Third Generation (1987-1991)

●First production car to be available with four-wheel steering

●High strength steel used to deliver exceptional protection in a collision

●Motorsport developed double wishbone suspension

Honda employed an evolutionary approach to the new, third generation Prelude’s styling, but under the skin the coupe was one of the most advanced models ever. Bigger, more refined and even better to drive, it set new standards for the sector.

One of its biggest innovations was the addition of four-wheel steering (4WS), which made it the first production car in the world to feature such a set-up. The clever mechanical system allowed both the front and rear wheels to turn, combined with the enhanced double wishbone front and rear suspension to improve both handling and agility.

Inside, the new Prelude was even more spacious than before, while standard equipment included electric windows and cruise control. In addition, Honda used high strength steel throughout the car’s structure, improving occupant protection in the event of a collision.

Honda Prelude - Fourth Generation (1991-1996)

●Electronic control of 4WS for even greater agility and stability

●Bold exterior and interior styling, including novel electroluminescent dials

●The first Prelude to include Honda’s advanced VTEC variable valve timing

Featuring a radical redesign, the fourth generation Prelude was designed to challenge established premium coupe models from Europe. The old model’s pop-up headlamps were replaced by slimline halogen units, while the interior featured bold design, luxurious materials and futuristic electroluminescent dials.

Technical innovations included electronic control of the car’s trademark 4WS system, which evolved into the ‘Hyper 4WS’ system, designed to improve handling performance while maintaining a more natural steering feel. There was also a new range of engines, including a flagship 2.2-litre four-cylinder fitted with Honda’s pioneering VTEC variable valve-timing system.

Like its predecessor, the fourth generation Prelude benefited from a double-wishbone suspension system for ultimate ride comfort and handling. The compact set-up also allowed designers to keep the car’s frontal area as small and low as possible, further improving aerodynamics.

Honda Prelude - Fifth Generation (1996-2001)

●Return to classic design themes of the 1978 original

●Addition of advanced ATTS torque vectoring system

●New five-speed automatic with race-inspired sequential shifting option

Returning to the more traditional straight-edged design themes of the original, the fifth generation Prelude effortlessly mixed the old and new. At its launch in 1996, the latest version entered into one of the most fiercely fought eras of the coupe market, with almost every major manufacturer offering a sleek two-door model.

As ever, it offered innovative engineering and exceptional build quality. There were also refinements to its four-wheel steering system, plus it featured the most powerful version yet of the 2.2-litre VTEC engine, delivering up to 200PS.

To handle the extra performance, the Prelude also debuted Honda’s ATTS (Active Torque Transfer System). One of the world’s first torque vectoring technologies, during cornering it automatically diverted power to the outside front wheel to enhance grip and reduce understeer.

Honda Prelude - Sixth Generation (2026-)

●Inspired by the grace and elegance of modern gliders for ‘Unlimited Glide’

●Honda S+ Shift technology provides an extra layer of driving excitement

●Powerful and efficient e:HEV full hybrid powertrain offers unmatched performance

Returning after a quarter of a century, the new Prelude retains the pioneering spirit of its iconic predecessors. Featuring a 315Nm motor torque performance, it pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an innovative lightweight dual electric motor automatic transmission for responsive power delivery and excellent efficiency.

Honda S+ Shift is a new e:HEV control technology which delivers a more direct and engaging driving experience. While remaining motor-driven, it simulates an eight-speed stepped transmission by precisely controlling engine RPM during acceleration and deceleration, creating sharp shift sensations and highly responsive performance. In addition, an Active Sound Control system synchronises enhanced engine sounds through the speakers with responsive meter displays, stimulating the driver’s senses and creating a feeling of ‘Synchronise’ between driver and vehicle.

Inside, the Prelude features a sophisticated and seductive design plus space for four and a large hatchback tailgate that opens to reveal a versatile, configurable luggage area. The addition of Honda SENSING technology and driver aids means this is also the safest Prelude ever.