Honda Prelude

Honda appears to have a major focus on the Indian market. With an aim to regain its lost market share, the Japanese automaker has planned a range of new models targeting mass-market, premium and niche segments. Honda has confirmed that it will introduce multiple global models in India through CBU (completely built unit) route, which will help strengthen the brand’s image.

In latest development, the carmaker has confirmed that it’s evaluating hybrid versions of the Civic, Accord and CR-V SUV along with the Prelude hybrid coupe for the Indian market.

Honda Prelude Launch Date

The latest-generation Honda Prelude recently made its global debut. While its official India launch timeline is yet to be announced, the hybrid coupe is expected to arrive during the current financial year.

Honda Prelude Expected Price

In India, the Prelude is expected to be priced around ₹50.00 Lakhs* (ex-showroom).

Key Features

The Honda Prelude is a low-slung sports coupe based on the brand’s new “Thin, Light and Wise” design philosophy. It features a futuristic front fascia with sharply designed LED headlamps, slim LED DRLs, closed-style grille, sculpted bumper and large lower air intake. Styling elements such as fastback-style roofline, flush-door handles, full-width LED taillamp signature, black lower diffuser treatment and integrated lip spoiler add more to its sporty looks.

Inside, the Prelude offers a driver-focused cockpit, featuring a layered horizontal dashboard, honeycomb AC vent mesh, minimal physical buttons, and a sporty steering wheel. Honda has equipped the coupe with several advanced tech and features such as a fully digital instrument cluster, HUD (head-up display), hybrid energy-flow display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, OTA updates, voice assistant support, Honda Sensing ADAS suite and more.

Engine Specifications

The all-new Prelude features Honda’s fourth-generation e:HEV two motor hybrid system, which includes a 141bhp, 2.0L naturally aspirated petrol engine and dual electric motors. This setup delivers a combined output of around 200bhp and 315Nm of torque.

The coupe can accelerate 0 to 100kmph in nearly 6.2-7 seconds, and attain a top speed of 188kmph. It offers a WLTC-certified fuel efficiency of up to 23.6kmpl. With a 40-litre fuel tank, the Prelude runs around 750km – 900km. The model uses an e-CVT hybrid transmission along with a FWD (front-wheel drive) system.

Honda’s new Prelude shares several components with the Honda Civic R Type R including a sport-tuned steering wheel, wider track setup, adaptive dampers, dual-axis front suspension and Brembo front brakes.

Competition

The Hona Prelude will serve to a very niche segment in India. Its rivals in India will largely depend on its final positioning and pricing. If priced between Rs 50 lakh – Rs 80 lakh, the hybrid coupe will take on the entry-level luxury performance cars such as Mercedes-Benz CLA, BMW 2 Series Coupe and Mini Cooper S. Being a sporty hybrid coupe, it might also attract buyers considering EVs such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, BYD Seal and BMW i4.