By SEMA News Editors
Nearly a year since Honda confirmed the return of the Prelude, SEMA News sources spotted a prototype of the sports car testing in Germany.
These early images of the new Honda Prelude reveal that Honda has made significant progress beyond the concept car it showcased last spring. The test units are now at its German headquarters, and they're showing more details than typically seen in the early stages of development.
While the silhouette differs from the original concept model, the Prelude retains the sleek, curved roofline and a sharp tail drop. A large rear window accentuates the elegant, coupe-like profile. Comparing this prototype with the spring's Prelude concept, it's clear that Honda has stayed true to the design.
The headlights are the same, as is the grille with its thin slats, giving the front end a sharper, more aerodynamic look. The shapes of the front bumper and cooling vents are also unchanged and the full-width rear lights maintain the concept's design.
The bulging wheel arches, especially at the rear and the open vents in the front fenders are carried over from the concept, reinforcing the sporty nature of this new model, which notably won't be electric. A peek beneath the rear bumper shows part of the exhaust system.
The new Honda Prelude is set to launch in mid-2026, with sales starting in the latter half of the year. It will feature a hybrid powertrain, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor integrated into the automatic transmission, delivering more than 200 hp.