This is the first Honda model outside the Type R lineup to use dual-axis front suspension
The Honda Prelude is set to go on sale later this year. While it won’t wear a Type R badge, it will borrow several performance components from the Civic Type R. No, Honda hasn’t ditched the Prelude’s hybrid setup for the Civic’s turbocharged engine—but it has made some sporty upgrades.
Notably, the Prelude becomes the first non-Type R model to feature Honda’s dual-axis front suspension. This unique design separates the knuckle from the damper, improving steering precision and reducing torque steer. It also inherits the Civic Type R’s Brembo front brakes and benefits from wider front and rear tracks.
Honda admits the Prelude isn’t meant to be the sportiest coupe out there but promises it will still offer “high levels of driver exhilaration and engagement.” And as enthusiasts know, a car doesn’t need big power to be fun.
Under the hood, the Prelude uses the same hybrid powertrain found in the Civic Hybrid: a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with dual electric motors, producing 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque.
There’s speculation the Prelude may receive a slight power bump, which could make it a compelling alternative to the Toyota GR86. While both are similarly sized, the GR86 features a 2.4-liter flat-four with 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque—and crucially, offers a manual transmission, which the Prelude will not.
Full specs and pricing are still under wraps, but with the launch approaching, more details should surface soon. For reference, the Civic Hybrid starts at $30,100, and the Prelude is expected to land in the low $30,000 range as well.
