Honda Prelude long-term test vehicle, and I plan to log many more before the project concludes next year. That’s already sufficient time behind the wheel to become quite familiar with a car, but more importantly, to investigate its technology, safety, comfort, and entertainment offerings.
As is the case with most cars from any automaker today, the Prelude comes equipped with a standard set of features typically found in the Honda range. It also operates using the same hardware and software as our previous long-term vehicle, so you‘ll undoubtedly encounter some elements that aren’t particularly distinctive to the sporty coupe. Nevertheless, I’ll also highlight features that influence its drivability; specifically, its driving modes and multifunction paddle shifters.
I’m diving right into the details and categorizing these into three sections: Like, Dislike, and On the Fence. Each entry will feature a brief justification for its classification, along with any pertinent details or musings.
Previous Installments
Dislike
- Seats: I’m not sure how Honda missed this, but neither the driver’s nor the passenger seat has adjustable lumbar support.
- Steering Wheel: I appreciate the shape and feel, but I’m disappointed that a $45,000 car doesn’t offer a heated steering wheel.
- Adaptive Cruise: A significant enhancement in calibration and lane stability compared to other Honda models, yet the Prelude brakes a bit too abruptly at the faintest hint of a car in front, or one beside that’s too close to the lane markings.
- Shut-Off Sequence: This problem is consistent across the lineup, and I will continue to mention it until Honda resolves it. When the engine is turned off, everything turns off. If you’re playing music, that shuts down immediately. If you’re on a phone call via the car’s Bluetooth, that will also end. When parked on a city street, your blind spot monitors won’t alert you to an approaching vehicle or cyclist, so you may inadvertently open your door. Most other cars maintain auxiliary power for 60 seconds after pressing the Engine Start button, or allow you to customize this feature.
- Electronic Parking Brake: I’m not being overly critical here because I understand there’s a safety aspect to it, but an automatically disengaging parking brake would be preferable. There’s nothing more frustrating than starting the car, shifting into gear, and accelerating, only to be held back by the parking brake. Ideally, it should disengage if the doors are closed, the driver’s seatbelt is fastened, and moderate throttle is applied.
Like
- Suspension: I mentioned this in my First Impressions blog, but the electronic adaptive dampers are right out of a European sports car that costs at least twice as much as the Prelude. While these are taken from the Civic Type R, they possess their own tuning, and they perform incredibly well whether you’re enjoying a leisurely drive or tackling winding country roads.
- Lighting: Once again, the Prelude exceeds expectations with projector-style LED headlights. The beam color is just right—not too yellow, white, or blue. The brightness is excellent, along with the depth. They work as if you’d opted for a $6,000 option on a Mercedes or BMW.
- Visibility: Excellent forward, side, and rear visibility despite the Prelude being relatively low to the ground and having a notably sloped roof.
- Driving Modes: Comfort, GT, and Sport. Comfort is very soft and somewhat sluggish, but fuel savings can be maximized thanks to the throttle and hybrid system’s setup in this mode. My preferred setting is GT, which I use daily. The suspension is less bouncy, and the drivetrain responds sufficiently without the hybrid boost feeling excessively jarring.
- Google Built-In: Honda’s new Google-powered infotainment system is truly impressive. I appreciate that once I log into my Google account, it recognizes everything about me. (Creepy, right?) All I need to do is press the Google Assistant button on the screen and request directions, make a call, or find essential information online without looking away from the road. Ah, the delightful convenience I sacrifice for a modicum of privacy.
- Sound System: I’m not an audiophile by any means, but like many who enjoy music, I value a decent audio system. The standard Bose system in the Prelude boasts seven speakers and a subwoofer, delivering good volume and clarity; while driving on a smooth road with windows down, I can catch the finer details of a song like I would with over-ear headphones.
- Honda Sensing: Another aspect the Prelude shares with the rest of the Honda range, albeit a crucial one. These features are standard: Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Low Speed Follow, Lane Keeping Assist System, Blind Spot Information System, Cross Traffic Monitor, Low-Speed Braking Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, Traffic Jam Assist, Auto High-Beam Headlights, and Driver Attention Monitor.
On the Fence
- Door Handles: Yes, the pop-up handles that sit flush with the door are quite attractive. When you approach the car with the key fob on you and they automatically pop out, they’re fantastic. However, when the keys are already inside the car, and you’re attempting to open the door, you need to push one end of the handle to make the other pop out, allowing you to pull it to open the door. If you have both hands free, it’s not an issue—though still bothersome. If you’re limited to one hand, it becomes tricky.
- Paddle Shifters: The metal paddles in the Prelude serve dual purposes depending on the driving mode selected. When S+ Shift is off, the left paddle (generally used for downshifting) increases brake regeneration—but there’s a catch. This regen, activated by clicking the paddle once or multiple times, isn’t permanent. It resets once the vehicle comes to a halt. It’s mainly a method to decelerate more effectively as you’re slowing down (it can also be utilized during spirited driving) while benefiting from or recharging the battery. The right paddle (generally used for upshifting) eliminates drag and allows the car to glide down the road without capturing any energy. It’s an intriguing—and, if you’re unfamiliar with it, a somewhat disconcerting sensation reminiscent of the extraordinary Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX. When S+ Shift is activated (and it can be enabled in any driving mode), it lets you mimic gear shifting like in most semi-automatic vehicles. The reason I’m “on the fence” about it is due to the mental effort and comprehension needed to decipher how this all operates and when to use it. It’s not particularly intuitive.
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**2026 Honda Prelude Long-Term Review: A Comprehensive Look at Features**
The 2026 Honda Prelude signifies a notable return of the storied nameplate, fusing contemporary technology with the classic sporty appeal that enthusiasts have yearned for. This long-term review examines the essential features and characteristics that define the 2026 Prelude, offering insights into its performance, design, technology, and overall driving experience.
**Performance and Powertrain**
At the core of the 2026 Honda Prelude is a powerful powertrain that caters to both casual drivers and performance aficionados. The Prelude is outfitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, yielding an impressive 250 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission, facilitating smooth shifts and responsive acceleration.
For those desiring a more engaging driving experience, Honda provides a six-speed manual transmission option for increased driver control. The Prelude features an advanced all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The vehicle’s sport-tuned suspension guarantees a balanced ride, with precise handling that honors its sporty heritage.
**Exterior Design**
The 2026 Honda Prelude showcases a sleek and modern exterior design that honors its predecessors while integrating contemporary styling elements. The front fascia boasts a bold grille and sharp LED headlights, endowing the Prelude with an aggressive stance. The coupe silhouette is accentuated by sculpted lines and a sloping roofline, enhancing its aerodynamic form.
Available in a variety of vibrant colors, the Prelude also offers optional performance-oriented enhancements such as a rear spoiler and larger alloy wheels, further emphasizing its sporty essence. The overall design achieves a balance between elegance and athleticism, appealing to a broad audience.
**Interior Comfort and Technology**
Inside, the 2026 Prelude is crafted with driver comfort and modern technology in focus. The cabin features high-quality materials, with optional leather upholstery and sport seats that deliver excellent support during spirited drives. The driver-centric cockpit includes a digital instrument cluster providing customizable displays, ensuring essential information is readily accessible.
The infotainment system is equipped with a sizable touchscreen display, compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The audio system offers premium sound quality, enriching the overall driving experience. Additional features like dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and ambient lighting contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable interior environment.
**Safety Features**
Honda places a premium on safety in the 2026 Prelude, outfitting it with a comprehensive array of advanced safety features. The Honda Sensing suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation, among others. These technologies collaboratively enhance driver awareness and minimize the likelihood of accidents.
The Prelude also features a robust structure designed to absorb impact energy, coupled with multiple airbags strategically located throughout the cabin. With high safety ratings anticipated, the 2026 Prelude aims to provide reassurance for drivers and passengers alike.
**Driving Experience**
The driving experience of the 2026 Honda Prelude is where it truly excels. The combination of a powerful engine, responsive handling, and a well-calibrated suspension generates an engaging and dynamic ride. Whether maneuvering through winding roads or cruising along the highway, the Prelude fosters a sense of connection between the driver and the road.
The all-wheel-drive system enhances confidence across various driving conditions, while the available drive modes permit drivers to customize the vehicle’s performance to their liking. The Prelude’s sporty character is complemented by a refined ride quality, making it suitable for daily commuting as well as weekend getaways.
**Conclusion**
The 2026 Honda Prelude successfully marries modern performance, stylish design, and advanced technology, establishing it as an appealing choice for those in search of a sporty coupe. With its rich heritage and contemporary features, the Prelude is poised to win over both long-time enthusiasts and new drivers alike. As a long-term investment, the Prelude is set to deliver excitement and reliability for years ahead.