Discover how the 2025 Honda Prelude blends hybrid tech with sleek coupe styling for a distinct driving feel. Read the full review and see if it fits your passion.
After a 25‑year hiatus, Honda revives the Prelude name in 2025 with a bold, all‑new hybrid coupe. The car instantly sparked debate: a high price tag, two‑door layout, and a hybrid drivetrain made many wonder if it would ever match the performance pedigree of a true sports car.
Design That Turns Heads Without Shouting
The new Prelude carries a sleek, continuous coupe silhouette. Smooth lines and balanced proportions give it a visual harmony that sedans and hatchbacks struggle to achieve. It doesn’t scream “sports car,” but its understated elegance quickly wins over drivers who value refined styling over exaggerated aggression.
Price and Rarity: A ‘Collector‑Feel’ Car
With an expected price north of 3 billion VND (around $130,000 USD) for the Vietnamese market, the Prelude will be a rare sight on the road. Its scarcity adds an exclusive aura, positioning it as a “unique” Honda rather than a mass‑market model.
Performance: Feel Over Numbers
Don’t expect blister‑fast acceleration or the razor‑sharp edge of a Civic Type R. The Prelude delivers a middle‑of‑the‑road power feel—neither sluggish nor overly aggressive. Compared with everyday sedans, hatchbacks, or SUVs, it still feels sportier, but it falls short of what hardcore performance enthusiasts demand.
Honda S+ Shift: Simulated DCT for Emotion
At the heart of the driving experience is Honda’s S+ Shift system, an 8‑speed DCT‑style simulation that adds engine‑note enhancement. In real‑world tests, S+ Shift makes the ride feel more animated and gives an auditory cue reminiscent of a traditional gasoline engine. However, it doesn’t improve outright acceleration; in fact, the SPORT mode alone can be quicker. The feature is designed for emotional engagement, not track‑day performance.
Minimalist Interior: Driving Is the Priority
The Prelude trims the usual comfort extras—no ventilated seats, no power‑adjustable front seats, no heated steering wheel, and no panoramic roof. While some may see this as a drawback, the philosophy appears to be a driver‑first approach, emphasizing handling and feel over luxury amenities.
Real‑World Issue: A Curious Scratch
In late 2025, a Prelude owner reported a scratch on the front hood that resembled a stone chip but was likely caused by a hard object striking the vehicle while parked. Because the paint finish is the premium Moonlit White Pearl, repairs are expected to be costly. The incident is under investigation by Honda dealers and the insurer to determine coverage eligibility.
Who Is This Car For?
The 2025 Prelude isn’t built to compete with high‑performance machines. It’s aimed at drivers who have lived through multiple automotive phases and now seek a comfortable, modestly sporty coupe that feels special without needing to dominate the track. Think of it as a modern “play” car—where atmosphere, design, and personal connection outweigh raw speed.
Bottom Line
Honda’s latest Prelude challenges conventional metrics. It won’t win a drag race, but its unique blend of hybrid efficiency, elegant design, and emotionally‑tuned driving dynamics may resonate with a niche audience that values exclusivity and a distinct motoring experience. If that description fits you, the Prelude could be your next automotive adventure.