Quick look
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After an absence of over 20 years, the Prelude returns as a 6th generation model with Honda’s e:HEV electrified technology.
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Honda Malaysia is running a ‘Hybrid Done Right‘ campaign with a monthly lucky draw that offers a chance to experience the new Prelude for 1 week after its launch later this year.
The Prelude was Honda’s second sports model (the first being the S800 in the 1960s) which older readers will recall first appeared in Malaysia in the late 1970s. It used parts such as the engine, suspension and brakes from the Accord (first generation), but the chassis was specially developed.
5 generations
The Prelude thrived during the ‘golden years’ of the Japanese industry when affordable sportscars were in showrooms. However, by the late 1990s, demand for coupes declined as SUVs gained in popularity, and Honda decided to stop the Prelude line in 2001. It had gone through 5 generations by then.
In 2023, those who missed the Prelude were excited to know that Honda was considering reviving the nameplate and showed a concept model at the Japan Mobility Show as well as other motorshows. It was to be a replacement for the Civic and Accord coupes that had disappeared from showrooms.
The sixth generation of the Prelude went on sale in 2025 and prior to that Malaysia was the first country outside Japan to have the Prelude Concept on display at the Malaysia Auto Show 2024. Honda Malaysia said that its sale was under consideration at that time.
Returning with e:HEV technology
Finally, the Prelude is back and takes its place as the flagship of Honda Malaysia’s e:HEV electrified model range. It is no longer having just a combustion engine but now has Honda’s hybrid electric powertrain with dual-electric motor technology.
The latest Prelude sits low to the ground, measuring just 1355 mm in height, which emphasizes its wide 1880 mm stance. The exterior design favours a minimalist approach, characterized by a smooth roofline achieved through laser brazing and flush door handles to reduce aerodynamic drag. Its profile is that of a liftback, a departure from all previous generations that were more of a coupe with a ‘third box’.
The Prelude has a 2-litre e:HEV powertrain with total system output of 184 ps/315 Nm. Honda’s e:HEV approach has the electric motors doing most of the propulsion while the engine acts primarily as a generator. Only in high-speed situations does the engine get involved directly in powering the car.
A notable technical inclusion is S+ Shift Technology, designed to bridge the sensory gap between a CVT-driven hybrid and a traditional manual or dual-clutch gearbox by simulating gear changes during spirited driving. When paired with Active Sound Control, the driver receives audible and tactile feedback that mimics the rising and falling of engine revs. In this way, the driver will still experience the mechanical feel of past coupes while also having the digital driving experience.
The chassis has been tuned to handle the added weight of the hybrid battery without sacrificing the agility associated with the Prelude name. With a wheelbase of 2605 mm, the car is sized to offer stability at higher speeds while remaining compact enough for Genting-type roads.
Prelude fans and those who are considering the model are being offered opportunities to experience its driving dynamics firsthand through organized regional events. Bookings have officially commenced at all authorised Honda dealerships nationwide, and the model will be launched later this year.
Click here for locations of customer previews
Hybrid Done Right
Honda Malaysia has launched the ‘Hybrid Done Right’ Campaign, running from April 1 to June 30, 2026. The campaign features a series of programmes showcasing the benefits of the e:HEV system while offering customers rewards.
During the campaign period, customers who purchase a Honda e:HEV model will enjoy an additional RM2,000 cash rebate and free labour service for the first two years (terms and conditions apply).
In addition, they will get an entry for a monthly lucky draw for a chance to experience the new Prelude for 1 week after its launch. Existing Honda e:HEV owners are also invited to take part by joining the ‘Hybrid Done Right’ contest, where they can share their actual fuel consumption readings for one full tank on social media. Participants with the best fuel consumption performance will be rewarded with a 12-month/10,000-km free service package.
Find a Honda showroom in Malaysia
