Since the very first debut of the Prelude in 1978, Honda aimed to bring the joy of sporty driving to as many drivers as possible with this model. We invite you to review the unique history of this model.
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Driving Joy – For Every Driver
Sportiness is part of Honda’s identity. Whether it’s a city car, scooter, or SUV – Honda products aim to emphasize the joy of travel and the pleasure of driving. And you don’t need to be the fastest or have the most powerful engine for that. The car must make you smile.
Over nearly 50 years of the model’s history, the Prelude has become Honda’s proving ground for sporty driving ideas. It was the first mass-produced car with all four wheels driven, electronic multi-point fuel injection, and an active torque vectoring system.
First Generation – 1978-1983
• Introduced at the 1979 Amsterdam Motor Show
• 1.6L gasoline four-cylinder 80 HP engine
• Independent suspension on each wheel.
In 1978, the Prelude debuted in the Japanese market and the following year traveled to Europe. It was a low-profile two-door coupe, but comfortably seated 4 passengers inside. The European market offered a 1.6L 80 HP engine. The model had independent 4-wheel suspension. Additionally, it was one of the first cars where power steering could be ordered.
Second Generation – 1983-1987
• First Prelude with pop-up headlights
• Fuel injection technology from Formula 1 racing
• Also offered with ABS system.
The second generation followed the success formula of the first Prelude – low body profile, sporty stance, and spacious interior. To increase comfort and space, the wheelbase was extended.
The main focus was on aerodynamics. To reduce air resistance, pop-up headlights were installed on the hood. In 1985, the Prelude began to feature the PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) multi-point fuel injection system. The model was offered with an innovative electronic anti-lock braking system.
Third Generation – 1987-1991
• First mass-produced car with four-wheel steering system
• High-strength steel increased vehicle safety
• Double wishbone suspension “transferred” from racing programs.
Many sporty models of that era looked up to the third Prelude. Although externally it appeared as an evolution of the second generation, under the body this model hid many innovative solutions.
One of the biggest innovations of this model was the four-wheel steering system (4WS). It was the first mass-produced model where both front and rear wheels responded to steering input. Combined with advanced sporty suspension, this Prelude was a pleasure to drive on winding roads. Standard equipment included power windows and cruise control.
By the way, this generation of Prelude was driven by Lithuanian anthropologist and archaeologist Marija Gimbutienė.
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Fourth Generation – 1991-1996
• Electronically controlled four-wheel steering system (4WS)
• Futuristic dashboard
• First Prelude with VTEC variable valve timing system.
The Prelude transitioned from angular lines to smooth body shapes. Pop-up lamps were replaced by narrow halogen headlights. The wide futuristic dashboard attracted attention.
The model featured Honda’s 2.2L 182 HP engine with VTEC technology. With an improved four-wheel steering system (4WS), the fourth generation Prelude was fast and extremely precise to handle.
Fifth Generation – 1996-2001
• Design returned to 1978 roots
• ATTS torque distribution system between wheels.
The fifth generation Prelude appeared when the coupe market was really hot. It was the golden era of affordable coupes, when almost every manufacturer offered their own coupe model.
The exterior design returned to its origins, emphasizing more than two decades of Prelude history. The 2.2L VTEC engine power increased to 200 HP, and the 4WS system was updated and improved.
The model debuted Honda’s ATTS (Active Torque Transfer System) torque distribution system. It was one of the first such systems among mass-produced cars. When cornering, the system transferred excess torque to the front outer wheel, ensuring better grip.
Sixth Generation – 2026
The sixth generation Prelude returns to the market after more than a quarter of a century break. During this time, the world has changed. SUVs dominate the roads, two-door coupes remain only in the lineups of luxury car manufacturers, and strict environmental requirements encourage sporty car makers to seek innovative solutions.
The latest Prelude is a fully hybrid sporty car, with wheels driven by an electric motor. The car accelerates suddenly – like an electric vehicle, which is especially useful in real traffic situations (overtaking, exiting corners). The internal combustion engine in the hybrid system acts as a generator, charging the electric battery. It also assists the electric motor when driving at high speed. The total system torque reaches 315 Nm.
The model features Honda S+ Shift transmission system simulating gearbox operation. The Prelude comes with an adaptive suspension system. You can choose from three driving modes: comfort (for bad roads), GT (everyday), and sporty (the toughest setting). Suspension settings can also be customized.
The new Prelude was designed as a grand tourer car for every day. The adjustable suspension allows enjoying comfortable driving on rough roads, and due to the hybrid drive, combined fuel consumption is only 5.2 l/100km.
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