The new Honda Prelude is so popular dealers have had to stop taking orders
Published on Oct 08, 2025 at 9:12 AM (UTC+4)
by Claire Reid
Last updated on Oct 08, 2025 at 4:20 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
The eagerly-anticipated 2026 Honda Prelude has smashed its opening sales in Japan, with some dealers even having to stop taking orders.
The original Honda Prelude was launched back in 1978 and originally ran for five generations until 2001.
However, the popular nameplate was revived for a sixth generation, which has recently launched in Japan.
And it’s safe to say it’s been a huge success, with the new Prelude selling eight times faster than expected.
DISCOVER SBX CARS – The global premium auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
The 2026 Honda Prelude has gone through a transformation
The updated and upgraded vehicle looks quite different from how you may remember the Prelude.
Honda has gone for a low, sharp nose and a wide stance featuring a smooth silhouette and clean lines.
The 2026 Honda Prelude is available in five colors: Winter Frost Pearl, Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Rallye Red and Boost Blue Pearl.
The car is powered by a two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain that produces up to 200 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. of torque.
It’s also the first car to feature Honda S+ Shift – a new drive mode that emulates ‘the sound and feel of quick automatic gear changes’.
“We are thrilled to be bringing back such an iconic nameplate to the Honda lineup,” Honda National Auto Sales assistant vice president Jessika Laudermilk said.
“The Prelude’s return demonstrates our commitment to exciting, fun-to-drive vehicles and will help to accelerate our hybrid-electric sales in the years ahead.”
The 2026 Honda Prelude hit showrooms in Japan last month and it’s proved to be a smash hit.
A month after sales opened, the car is selling around eight times faster than was previously estimated with data showing it is particularly popular with drivers in their 50s and 60s.
The Winter Frost Pearl finish, which is available with either a bodycolor or black roof option, is the most popular, making up more than 60 percent of orders.
The car is coming to the American market soon
If all this has got you excited about getting behind the wheel of the new 2026 Honda Prelude, then don’t worry – you won’t have to wait too long.
Honda said the vehicle will land in the American market ‘late fall’, which means we’re only a few weeks away.
Pricing hasn’t yet been revealed for the US, but it’s expected to come in at around $40,000.
DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
Claire Reid is a journalist who hails from the UK but is now living in New Zealand. She began her career after graduating with a degree in Journalism from Liverpool John Moore’s University and has more than a decade of experience, writing for both local newspapers and national news sites. Claire covers a wide variety of topics, with a special focus on cars, technology, planes, cryptocurrency, and luxury.
