The upcoming 2026 Honda Prelude aims to revive a classic nameplate with a modern interior, blending sporty aesthetics with practical features. Early previews reveal a cabin distinct from Honda’s mainstream offerings, though with some unexpected trade-offs.
Distinctive Design and Materials
The Prelude’s interior stands out thanks to its unique front seats, available with a striking two-tone color scheme. Honda has noticeably upgraded the dashboard compared to the Civic, using higher-quality materials and incorporating contrasting stitching to elevate the overall feel. This suggests a deliberate effort to position the Prelude as a more premium option within Honda’s lineup.
Tech and Driver Experience
The digital gauge cluster is customizable, displaying navigation, trip data, and audio controls, offering a modern and configurable experience. A standout feature is the “S+” button next to the shifter, which activates a simulated manual shifting mode. While the faux shifts are convincingly programmed, some users report that the system occasionally overrides manual paddle shifter inputs—a minor but unusual quirk.
Practicality and Space
Despite its sporty positioning, the Prelude doesn’t completely sacrifice practicality. The rear liftback opens to reveal a reasonably sized cargo area, further expandable by folding down the small rear seats. This suggests Honda is targeting buyers who want a stylish coupe without compromising everyday usability.
The decision to equip the seats with manual adjustments, despite the otherwise tech-forward cabin, is a notable omission. It’s unclear whether this is a deliberate cost-cutting measure or a stylistic choice, but it stands out as an oddity in a modern vehicle.
The 2026 Honda Prelude appears to be a deliberate step towards offering a more distinctive and upscale experience within Honda’s lineup, even if it includes some unexpected compromises. The blend of sporty design, upgraded materials, and practical cargo space suggests a well-rounded vehicle for buyers who want style without sacrificing everyday usability.
