THE NEW HONDA PRELUDE COUPE WILL SHOWCASE A HUGE LEAP IN HYBRID PERFORMANCE AND TECHNOLOGY

EV Channels Review

The Honda Prelude is poised to mark a significant evolution in the brand's hybrid strategy, aiming to blend exhilarating driving dynamics with fuel efficiency. While the concept has been revealed and confirmed for European markets, the critical question remains: can Honda deliver a truly fun-to-drive hybrid powertrain? The reviewer expresses skepticism about current Honda hybrid systems, finding them refined but lacking excitement. The Prelude is positioned as a "forerunner" for future sporty models, suggesting it will debut next-generation hybrid technology. Key expectations include a lighter, more efficient, and more powerful hybrid system, potentially with e-all-wheel drive, a departure from the current 2.0L hybrid found in other models. The reviewer highlights two major areas for improvement: highway fuel economy and responsiveness at speed, contrasting Honda's current series-hybrid approach with Toyota's more direct power-split system. Ultimately, the success of the new Prelude hinges on Honda's ability to address these shortcomings and inject genuine driving pleasure into its hybrid offerings.