The sixth-generation Honda Prelude began sales in Japan on September 5, 2025. Honda describes it as a hybrid specialty sports coupe with a liftback cargo opening, and says it is based on the Civic Type R chassis with Prelude-specific tuning. The cited launch release does not state a 200-hp output, and the Type R chassis link does not mean the car comes with unspecified Type R parts. As of Honda’s January 2026 announcement, Prelude-specific HRC Performance Parts were still in development.
When did the new Honda Prelude launch?
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. dated its Japan-market launch announcement September 4, 2025, and said sales would begin the following day. The release listed a Japan monthly sales plan of 300 units and a Japan MSRP of 6,179,800 yen. Those are Japan-specific launch figures, not North American pricing or availability. Honda’s September 2025 launch release
How much horsepower does the 2026 Prelude have?
The cited Honda launch release does not give a combined horsepower rating, so it does not substantiate the “200-HP” claim in the original headline. It specifies a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle direct-injection gasoline engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system. Do not treat an unverified output figure as an official rating for every market or model-year specification. Honda’s specifications
What does Honda S+ Shift do?
Honda says the Prelude is the first model to combine its e:HEV hybrid system with Honda S+ Shift control technology. The motor-driven e:HEV system has no mechanical transmission; S+ Shift emulates a virtual eight-speed transmission by controlling engine RPM during acceleration and deceleration to create a stepped shifting sensation. That describes the system’s intended operation, not an independently measured driving result. Honda’s explanation of S+ Shift
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- This plastic model requires assembly and painting. Adhesives, tools, paints, etc., sold separately
- 1/24 scale unpainted plastic model assembly kit
- Size when completed: Total length 7.4 inches (189 mm), Total width 3.4 inches (87 mm), Total height
- In addition to rooms with horizontal base panel and large LCD meter, the back of the chassis and around the feet are finished with a 3D feel
- Includes metal inlet markings such as emblems and window mask seals
Honda also lists Coasting Control, Sport, GT and Comfort drive modes, plus an Individual mode that lets the driver customize six settings. Honda’s launch release
Does the Prelude use Civic Type R parts?
Honda says the Prelude is based on the Civic Type R chassis and has dedicated settings intended to balance responsive handling with a smooth ride. That establishes a chassis basis, not that the Prelude is a Type R or that it carries unspecified Type R parts.
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![Hot Wheels '98 Honda Prelude [Black] Factory Fresh 5/5, 136/250-1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Vehicle](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ZN+ASRSEL._SL160_.jpg)
- 1998 Honda Prelude in a Sleek Black Finish!
- Number 5/5 in the Factory Fresh Set! Number 136/250 in the Overall Series!
- 1:64 Scale Diecast Toy Vehicle
Honda’s listed hardware includes:
- Dual-axis strut front suspension and an adaptive damper system
- High-response steering with a variable gear ratio
- A uniformly rigid driveshaft
- High-capacity front Brembo brakes
- 19-inch wheels
These are specifications in Honda’s launch material; they should not be read as proof of additional shared Type R components. Honda’s launch release
Is the Prelude a hatchback?
Honda calls the car a specialty sports model and describes a large liftback opening. “Coupe” or “liftback” is therefore more faithful to the launch release than saying Honda classifies it as a hatchback.
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- This plastic model requires assembly and painting. Adhesives, tools, paints, etc., sold separately
- 1/24 scale unpainted plastic assembly kit
- Size when assembled: total length 7.1 inches (180 mm), total width 3.2 inches (82 mm), total height 2.1 inches (
- faithfully reproduces the aerodynamic shape of the Honda Prelude XX
- Decals recreate front and rear emblems, headcover logos, speakers, and wheel center emblems
The rear seatbacks split 60/40 and fold flat. Honda says the cargo area can accommodate two medium-size suitcases; with the seats folded, its examples include two golf bags or two shortboards. Actual fit depends on the items’ shapes and dimensions. Honda’s body and cargo details
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Are Prelude HRC Performance Parts available?
Honda’s January 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon announcement said Prelude-specific HRC Performance Parts were under development to enhance driving performance. It also described the Prelude HRC Concept as a concept equipped with those parts. The announcement does not establish that the parts are for sale, nor does it provide a confirmed retail parts list, fitment, release timing or pricing. Honda’s Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 announcement
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For the design rationale, development leader Tomoyuki Yamagami said the car was intended to feel comfortable in everyday driving and that evolving Honda’s hybrid system was essential. He also described the target as combining “intelligence and the excitement of an extraordinary experience, like performing acrobatics in a glider.” These are statements of development intent, not independent evidence of performance. Honda’s interview with Yamagami
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