HONDA WELCOMES BACK ICONIC PRELUDE NAMEPLATE AS HYBRID SPORTS COUPE RETURNS TO EUROPE AFTER 25 YEARS

This technology has evolved to create a virtual eight-speed transmission that generates an even stronger connection between the car and driver. Controlled via the steering wheel paddles, ordinarily used to control the level of regenerative braking when Honda S+ Shift is not engaged, this allows the driver to shift through the gears as per a manual transmission. When changing down, drivers will also experience a comforting engine braking effect, providing even greater throttle control and a rev-matching throttle ‘blip’ to match.

Advanced e:HEV powertrain

Utilising more than 25 years of hybrid experience, the Prelude features Honda’s full hybrid e:HEV powertrain. Pairing a 2.0-litre petrol engine with the company’s lightweight dual electric motor automatic transmission, the 184PS (135kW) system offers true driver exhilaration with responsive power delivery, excellent efficiency and superb refinement.There is also a unique array of drive modes to choose from, which can be used to seamlessly switch between four options at the touch of a button – ‘Comfort’, ‘GT’, ‘Sport’, and ‘Individual' – each of which fine-tunes the characteristics of the hybrid powertrain, suspension and steering response to suit the driver’s needs.Exceptional handling, effortless comfort, and practicalityDeveloped to deliver superior levels of performance, dynamic response, and feedback in all driving situations, the new Prelude features suspension technology from the legendary Civic Type R. Engineered to provide a balance of agile handling and comfort, the Prelude uses an advanced multi-link suspension set-up, adaptive dampers and the latest generation of Honda’s AHA. Once inside, the interior has been created to deliver a driver-focused feeling of control and exceptional visibility, featuring high quality materials and an uncluttered layout that allows occupants to enjoy the vehicle’s careful craftsmanship. Including a choice between a pair of exclusive two-tone material finishes that feature either a white-and-blue or black-and-blue theme.This is typified by a customisable 10.2-inch driver display that features unique Prelude graphics and coloured themes tailored to each drive mode. There is also the latest in connectivity with Honda’s responsive nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system that features Apple CarPlay, with wireless connectivity, and Android Auto, alongside a rich and powerful eight-speaker audio system jointly developed with Bose.Despite its sleek exterior profile, the new Prelude offers both space and usability, with seating for four occupants, alongside a large hatchback tailgate that opens to reveal up to 663-litres of luggage space. Customers can also choose from four exterior colour options, including a new rich Moonlit White Pearl, plus Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Racing Blue Pearl.

Safety is also a high priority, with the latest Honda SENSING system carefully tuned to deliver enhanced driver support. In addition, the Adaptive Cruise Control, Road Departure Mitigation System and Lane Keeping Assist System have been carefully recalibrated to suit the model’s more dynamic character – typifying the attention to detail that is apparent throughout the all-new Prelude e:HEV.

ENDS