Following the global relaunch of the Prelude nameplate last year, Honda Malaysia officially brings the new Honda Prelude to the KLIMS 2026, with the new sixth-generation model powered by a 2.0-litre e:HEV hybrid powertrain paired with an eCVT transmission offering 181hp and 315Nm through a simulated 8-speed gearbox with its “S+ Shift” feature.
Honda Prelude Is Back As A Hybrid Sportscar
Powertrain & Suspension
In essence, the 2.0L naturally-aspirated four-pot in the new Prelude normally acts as a generator to the electric motor (with a tiny 1.05kWh battery), which is then responsible for making both front wheels rotate. If power is needed, both power sources can combine to deliver 200hp down to the road surface, though that still equates to a relatively lengthy 8.2 second sprint to 100km/h, continuing to 188km/h top speed. Not quite punchy as the Civic Type R (and just about the same as a regular hybrid Civic), but fuel consumption is certainly a plus with 100km of range needing just 4.2 liters of fuel.
This new model is also the first from Honda to feature the new S+ Shift technology, and it takes a very similar approach to Hyundai’s e-Shift found in the IONIQ 5 EV by simulating an 8-speed transmission, along with all the neck jolts and drama associated with it. Given that the electric motor is responsible for moving the car most of the time, engine sound is instead substituted by Active Sound Control feature that basically pumps fake engine noises to give the driver a sensation of traditional ICE engines.
Some of its suspension bits are borrowed from its bigger brother that is Civic Type R, which includes a dual-axis strut front suspension and an Adaptive Damper System, paired with Agile Handling Assist for stability during cornering or even obstacle avoidance. There will be three driving modes – Comfort, Sport, and GT – along with a fourth option where drivers can customize their own. For safety, it is equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist systems as well.
Exterior & Interior Design
With a 24-year gap since the last Prelude, the exterior has naturally undergone massive changes. This new one features a fastback silhouette with an uninterrupted roofline achieved through a glass-print radio antenna integrated into the rear glass. You’ll also find a black chrome grille, LED headlights, LED rear combination lights with red lens inserts, flush door handles, blue bumper accents, and 19-inch aluminum wheels with blue Brembo brake calipers. We think there’s a bit of Porsche-ness at the rear, too.
Meanwhile, the 2+2 seat interior follows a “Gliding Cockpit” layout, with the driver’s seat designed for engagement during dynamic driving and the passenger seat focused on comfort and ease of entry. The cabin includes a 9-inch Advanced Display Audio system with Google built-in (supporting Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play) and a Bose premium sound system. Behind the seats, the cargo space is said to capable of accommodating two medium-sized suitcases.
Pricing
The All-New Honda Prelude is priced at RM278,000 (OTR, without insurance) and is available in three color options: Winter Frost Pearl, Rallye Red, and Crystal Black Pearl. If you want to see the new Prelude for yourself, you can head to Honda’s booth at KLIMS 2026 over at MITEC, and event will open until 21st June 2026 – with select days featuring free admissions.
Pokdepinion: Looks the part, though the powertrain does feel a bit underwhelming.
