Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has officially launched the all-new Prelude, bringing for the first time in the country a well-known nameplate with a modern electrified direction. After being discontinued in 2001, Honda brought back the iconic model in Q4 2025 as a hybrid grand tourer (GT), combining familiar styling cues with new technology led by Honda’s e:HEV system and the debut of its S+ Shift feature.
Developed under the “Unlimited Glide” concept, the sixth-generation Prelude focuses on delivering a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Its low, wide stance and sleek hatchback profile give it a sporty yet refined presence, while details such as 19-inch alloy wheels and blue Brembo brake calipers add to its performance-oriented appeal.
Inside, the aesthetic takes a slightly different approach with an asymmetrical layout. The driver’s side leans toward a sporty vibe, while the passenger area prioritizes comfort. A 10.2-inch digital instrument display provides clear, modern visuals, complemented by an 8-speaker premium audio system. The Prelude also offers practical space, despite its sports coupe design. As such, its cargo area expands up to 760 liters, enough to fit two golf bags or medium size luggages for the weekend trip.
Under the hood, the Prelude is motivated by a 2.0-liter engine paired with Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system, producing 141 hp and 182 Nm of torque. It also adopts suspension components derived from the FL5 Honda Civic Type R, helping deliver sharper handling while maintaining everyday comfort. According to Honda, its fuel efficiency is rated at 25.6 km/LGe (kilometers per liter gas equivalent) based on DOE figures.
One of the key highlights is the S+ Shift system, a new kind of transmission tech seen for the first time on a Honda model in the Philippines. Designed to make hybrid driving more engaging, it links acceleration and deceleration with engine sound and visual feedback, creating a more connected driving feel that mimics a dual-clutch setup.
For safety, the Honda Prelude comes equipped with Honda Sensing, the brand’s version of the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). It also has Honda CONNECT, and Google built-in services, offering a full suite of safety, connectivity, and convenience features.
Available in a single 2.0 e:HEV E-CVT variant, the Honda Prelude is priced at P3,498,000. It is backed by a five-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year battery warranty, reinforcing Honda’s confidence in its latest hybrid offering.
Autocar’s Take
The debut of the all-new Honda Prelude signals how Honda intends to make hybrids emotionally engaging. The introduction of the S+ Shift system is particularly notable, as it attempts to bridge the gap between efficiency and driving enjoyment — something many electrified models struggle with.
While its price point of P3.498 million is firmly in the premium space, the combination of design, technology, and heritage give the model a clear identity. The challenge now lies in whether buyers are ready to embrace a hybrid coupe that prioritizes both refinement and driver involvement in equal measure.
