After an absence of nearly a quarter-century, the Honda Prelude, a nameplate cherished by enthusiasts for its precise handling and understated design throughout the 1980s and 1990s, has officially made its grand reentry. Unveiled as a hybrid sports coupe, its return has ignited fervent excitement in both Japan and the United States, prompting an immediate sell-out of its initial allocation of 2,000 units in its home market. This strong debut underscores the lasting appeal of the Prelude and sets a compelling precedent for its global distribution.
The process for securing one of these coveted vehicles in Japan was far from conventional, demanding that prospective buyers navigate a rigorous ordering system. Unlike the relaxed pre-launch reservation typical for other Honda models, the Prelude required orders to be placed on the announcement day itself, with dealerships meticulously processing requests on a first-come, first-served basis, constrained by their allocated units. While some fortunate early customers can anticipate deliveries by late September 2025, others might face a longer wait, extending into early 2026, particularly for specific color configurations. Honda's monthly sales target of approximately 300 units suggests a carefully phased production over several months, with a second batch of orders expected to open between autumn and winter, although the exact number of units remains undisclosed.
As the Japanese market eagerly embraces the new Prelude, attention is now shifting to its impending arrival in the American market, where certain distinctions are already emerging. The US-spec Prelude will uniquely offer the 'Boost Blue Pearl' color, an option unavailable in Japan, which, in turn, receives an exclusive two-tone 'Honda ON Limited Edition' model slated for October or November delivery. With Japanese pricing starting at around $42,000, surpassing even the Civic Type R, anticipation mounts for the US pricing and allocation details, expected later this year. The overwhelming demand witnessed in Japan signals a promising, yet challenging, launch for Honda as it navigates the Prelude's comeback across different international markets.
The return of the Honda Prelude exemplifies a commitment to innovation while honoring a rich automotive legacy. It reminds us that quality, performance, and thoughtful design can transcend time, creating new excitement and fostering a strong sense of community among enthusiasts. This journey of renewal underscores the idea that embracing the future does not mean forgetting the past, but rather building upon it to create something truly exceptional and inspiring for generations to come.