Discover the $2,400 discount on the Honda Prelude in California, how it compares to rivals, and why the price cut matters. Read more now!
For a model that has been eagerly awaited, the brand‑new Honda Prelude has hit a pricing snag in the United States. While its manufacturer‑suggested retail price (MSRP) starts at $42,000—still above the entry‑level Ford Mustang at $32,640—a California dealership has taken a bold step and reduced the price of the standard‑trim Prelude from $43,850 to $41,465, a discount of nearly $2,400.
Why the Price Cut Matters
Most U.S. showrooms are actually moving in the opposite direction, inflating prices by as much as $25,000 to “adjust the market” for newer inventory. The California dealer’s move therefore stands out as a genuine effort to attract buyers who have been hesitating because of the Prelude’s premium tag.
The timing is crucial: in December 2025, only 174 Preludes were sold nationwide, a stark contrast to the 18,176 Honda Civics and 35,150 CR‑Vs sold during the same period. The steep discount is designed to revive interest and boost those numbers before the model’s next sales quarter.
Prelude vs. Competitors
When the Prelude debuted globally in September 2025, expectations were high. It is positioned to replace the Civic and Accord coupes in several markets and sits alongside other Honda revived names like the Passport and the Acura Integra.
However, the pricing gap compared with stalwarts such as the Mustang has been a sticking point. American muscle buyers often prioritize raw power and a traditional manual gearbox—features the Prelude lacks, as it only offers an e‑CVT paired with a hybrid system.
Technical Specs and Hybrid Powertrain
The sixth‑generation Prelude is powered by a 2.0‑litre naturally‑aspirated inline‑four that produces 143 hp. The real kicker is Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system, which combines that engine with two electric motors delivering a combined 184 hp, pushing total output past the 200‑hp mark.
Driving is handled through an e‑CVT, but Honda has added a proprietary S+ Shift mode that mimics a light “kick” when shifting and changes the motor whine to give a more engaging feel—an attempt to bring back some of the excitement lost without a conventional gearbox.
Market Reception and Outlook
Despite the innovative hybrid technology, the Prelude still faces criticism for its high price relative to its segment and for lacking the visceral thrill of a pure‑gas sports car. The recent $2,400 cut may be a test to see whether a more aggressive pricing strategy can outweigh those concerns.
If the discount spurs a noticeable uptick in sales, other dealers could follow suit, potentially redefining the pricing landscape for premium sports coupes in the U.S. market.
