A California dealer slashes the 2025 Honda Prelude’s price by $2,400, offering the hybrid sports coupe for $41,465. Discover the deal and act now!
The 2025 Honda Prelude, a long‑awaited return of the classic coupe after a 30‑year hiatus, has finally hit U.S. showrooms. Yet, a surprisingly high manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of $42,000 placed the model above iconic rivals like the Ford Mustang, which starts around $32,640. The result? Tepid demand and a sales figure of just 174 units in December 2025.
Background: Prelude’s Rocky US Debut
Revived as Honda’s sixth‑generation sports coupe, the new Prelude aims to replace the aging Civic and Accord Coupes in several markets. While the global launch began in September 2025, U.S. consumers have been hesitant. The car’s pricing, coupled with a lack of a traditional manual gearbox, has left it vulnerable against domestic muscle‑car favourites.
Price Reduction Details
In a bold move contrary to many dealers who have been raising prices by up to $25,000 to “adjust the market,” a California Honda dealership announced a $2,400 discount on the base Prelude. The price fell from the original $43,850 to $41,465, hoping to spark interest among price‑sensitive buyers.
Why the Prelude Struggles in America
Several factors contribute to the Prelude’s challenges:
- Price Positioning: Even after the discount, the Prelude remains pricier than many entry‑level sports coupes.
- Powertrain Preference: U.S. enthusiasts still gravitate toward the visceral feel of a gasoline‑only engine with a manual transmission.
- Brand Perception: Honda is traditionally associated with reliable sedans and crossovers, not high‑performance coupes.
Hybrid Powertrain Explained
The 2025 Prelude is powered by a 2.0‑liter naturally aspirated inline‑four that delivers 143 hp, paired with Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system. Two electric motors add 184 hp, pushing total output past 200 hp. The power is managed by an e‑CVT, but Honda’s proprietary S+ Shift technology simulates a light “kick” and audible shift cues, aiming to mimic the engagement of a conventional gearbox.
What Buyers Should Consider
Prospective owners should weigh the following:
- Whether the hybrid’s combined efficiency and power offset the higher price point compared to gasoline‑only rivals.
- The appeal of Honda’s S+ Shift experience versus a true manual transmission.
- Long‑term resale prospects, given the Prelude’s limited production numbers in the U.S.
For drivers seeking a modern, tech‑forward coupe with a blend of performance and fuel economy, the discounted Prelude may finally be within reach. However, the broader market still questions whether the price aligns with the driving excitement traditionally associated with the name.
