The New Honda Prelude made a stunning comeback at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, capturing attention with its blend of retro-cool styling and cutting-edge hybrid power. Fans lined up to see the sleek coupe in motion on the hill climb and admired its sculpted lines, reinvented for a modern audience. As the first Prelude in over two decades, Honda’s return to this iconic nameplate signals its commitment to combining heritage design with future-forward hybrid performance.
Beyond looks, the event spotlighted the Honda Prelude hybrid system, showcasing a smart dual-motor setup paired with CVT and “S+ Shift” simulation tech intended to mimic gear changes. Alongside the Prelude, Honda also revealed its bold Honda Super EV concept, hinting at an electrified future. With news of Honda stock gaining curiosity from investors, the debut has driven both automotive and market interest.
Prelude at Goodwood: A Retro Revival with a Modern Heart
At Goodwood, the New Honda Prelude captured attention as it whizzed up the hill, juxtaposing retro coupe proportions, long hood, sweeping roofline, with futuristic touches. Observers noted the car’s first appearance in Europe felt whole: the sculptural shape, flared fenders, and bucket seats exuded nostalgia. Yet inside, the Prelude felt entirely modern with tech borrowed from the Civic and Acura lineup: a digital instrument cluster, sleek touchscreen, and minimalist dash.
The Honda Prelude hybrid stood out with its dual-motor e-CVT system, derived from the Civic and Accord hybrids. More than just efficient, it promised fun, thanks to the virtual “S+ Shift” button that simulates gear changes and enhances driver engagement. The Prelude romped up Goodwood’s hill with surprising briskness, proving it can bring both soul and substance.
Technical Highlights & What to Expect
Honda didn’t hold back in detailing the Prelude’s hybrid features:
- Powertrain & transmission: A 2.0-liter engine and two electric motors deliver ~200–240 hp. The CVT, aided by “S+ Shift,” offers simulated ratios and a more engaging feel, without a traditional gearbox.
- Driving modes: The Prelude debuts in Eco, Normal, Sport, and S+ modes. S+ heightens throttle response and simulates shift sound, balancing hybrid efficiency with sporty flair.
- Chassis & handling: Sharing a platform with the Civic, it introduces stiffer suspension tuned for handling feedback, says it climbs the hill at Goodwood with confidence and poise.
- Interior comfort: Borrowing materials from Acura and Civic, the cabin features bucket seats, an ergonomic layout, and a premium feel. Rear seats exist, though legroom is tight, best for occasional passengers.
Fans at Goodwood also got a glimpse of the Honda Super EV concept, presenting Honda’s design future think a boxy silhouette, upright profile, and homage to the original Honda e. This static display reinforced Honda’s direction: balancing hybrid production models like the Prelude with bold EV ideas.
Market Expectations & Honda Stock Implications
The New Honda Prelude is scheduled to hit the U.S. market in late 2025, with pricing reportedly starting near $33,000 for the base Sport trim and topping out around $40,000 for premium Touring versions. Analysts forecast a sales volume of 15,000–25,000 units annually, enough to please niche coupe fans while supporting broader brand strategy.
Honda stock has shown slight upticks since the Goodwood debut, as investors appraise the Prelude’s potential to attract both enthusiasts and eco-aware buyers. Reviving a cult-favorite model carries brand halo benefits that could ripple across the lineup, boosting interest in electrified models like the Super EV concept.
What the Prelude Means for Buyers
- Enthusiast appeal: The S+ Shift and hybrid powertrain offer a responsive feel without sacrificing eco credentials, an appealing blend for driving purists.
- Style & practicality: The coupe’s design nods to its ancestors, yet the hybrid tech and infotainment make it modern. Rear seating and trunk space offer usable daily flexibility.
- Value proposition: Versus rivals like the Toyota GR86 or Subaru BRZ, the Prelude’s hybrid setup may offer better fuel economy, fewer emissions, and lower long-term costs.
- Brand trust: Leveraging Honda’s reliable hybrid tech and dealer network may reassure buyers wary of novel powertrains. Plus, seeing the Super EV concept hints at future direction.
Looking Ahead: Release, Reviews, and Honda’s Future
The New Honda Prelude will begin production in late 2025, with showroom deliveries expected in early 2026. Early critics are calling it a smart hybrid sports coupe with personality, though some enthusiasts lament the absence of a manual transmission. That’s no surprise, as Honda has confirmed it will roll out exclusively with the e-CVT system, leaning into virtual shift tech. In tech circles, the Prelude’s launch is also raising chatter about Honda stock, some predict broader momentum if the model finds its niche.
Future coverage will include a full Honda Prelude review series detailing performance, comfort, and hybrid efficiency. Expect fuel economy estimates in the mid-40s mpg combined, strong chassis dynamics, and refined interiors. Buyers and investors alike will be watching national debuts, trim-level reveal videos, and resale performance ahead of first deliveries.
