The Iconic Honda Prelude to make a Comeback Late Next Year
The Prelude is ready to make a lightning comeback in a Hybrid-electric avatar! This sports coupe is expected to launch late next year in the American Market with a two-motor hybrid powertrain and is said to debut the "Honda S+ Shift" feature. The new Prelude is expected to be a replacement for the Discontinued Civic and Accord coupes. It made its debut at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show and a gorgeous red model was showcased at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2024.
Honda is known for making quirky, fun-to-drive sports cars, but the japs were also innovative! The Honda Prelude was among the first vehicles to incorporate a double-wishbone suspension on ALL FOUR WHEELS, beginning with its third generation in 1987. This setup was more often seen on high-performance sports cars at the time and delivered remarkable handling precision and ride comfort. This helped establish the Prelude as one of the best-handling front-wheel-drive cars of its era, earning widespread admiration from driving enthusiasts.
In 1987 Honda Prelude Si also became the world’s first production car to feature a mechanical four-wheel steering (4WS) system. This pioneering technology lets the rear wheels turn opposite to the front wheels at low speeds, enhancing maneuverability, and in the same direction at higher speeds, improving stability during cornering and lane changes. Not only was Honda able to flex their engineering prowess to the world, but also set the stage for 4WS systems in future sports cars, inspiring other manufacturers to follow suit.
The Prelude lets the world witness Honda's engineering prowess in the past, and it might just do it again! Let's hope we get to witness what Honda is capable of in India, with cars such as the CR-V or even the rugged Passport or the Pilot! Let me know what Honda Product you'd like to see launched in India!