After 24 years away, the 2026 Honda Prelude returns to redefine sports coupe expectations. The 2001 generation featured naturally aspirated power and analog controls. This sixth generation arrives at Honda Van Nuys with hybrid-electric performance, chassis components inherited from the Honda Civic Type R, and advanced digital connectivity that transforms the nameplate for modern California roads.
Hybrid Power Replaces Traditional Gas Engine
The 2001 Honda Prelude delivered 200 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque from a 2.2-liter VTEC® inline four-cylinder engine. The 2026 Honda Prelude maintains that horsepower through a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, while increasing torque to 232 lb-ft. Efficiency tells the transformation story: fuel economy leaps from 20 city/26 highway to an EPA-estimated 46 city/41 highway miles per gallon*. Honda S+ Shift™ technology simulates gear changes with rev-matched downshifts, delivering engaging performance that mirrors traditional transmissions while maximizing hybrid efficiency.
Track-Inspired Performance Meets Daily Comfort
Where the 2001 model used Honda’s Active Torque Transfer System, the 2026 Honda Prelude borrows high-performance components from the Civic Type R. Dual-axis strut front suspension and adaptive dampers deliver precise canyon control and confident highway stability. Lightweight 13.8-inch front rotors with Brembo® four-piston aluminum calipers—finished in Prelude Blue—provide stopping power the earlier model’s brakes couldn’t match. Four drive modes (Comfort, GT, Sport, Individual) customize powertrain response, steering feel, and suspension for any driving situation.
Modern Technology and Premium Interior
The 2001 Honda Prelude featured analog gauges that now give way to a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen with Google™ built-in. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ provide seamless connectivity. Leather sport seats with perforated houndstooth pattern replace previous cloth options, while three-way heating adds comfort. Standard Honda Sensing®—including Collision Mitigation Braking System™ and Road Departure Mitigation System™—delivers safety technologies that were practically unimaginable in 2001.
Experience the 2026 Honda Prelude in Van Nuys
Honda Van Nuys invites Southern California drivers to discover how 24 years of innovation transformed this legendary sports coupe. Schedule your test drive to experience the hybrid performance, Type R handling, and modern technology. Contact our Van Nuys showroom to explore how this coupe blends Honda heritage with electrified efficiency.
*46 city/41 highway/44 combined mpg rating. Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.
