Prelude Type R could also be joined by a Type S
The return of the Honda Prelude is a big deal. Not only will it reintroduce a sporty coupe to Honda’s lineup, but this will be the first hybrid Prelude ever. It’s this hybrid setup that’s a point of contention, though. If it’s the same system that’s in the Civic, the Prelude will only make around 200 horsepower. We hope that’s not the case, but what will excite fans are rumors of a proper high-performance Prelude Type R with up to 300 hp. That’s the sort of power befitting of a sporty coupe, and it won’t be the only sporty Prelude.
Related: Driving 5 Generations of Honda Prelude – Before the New One is Released!
Expect More Power And An Aggressive Look
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According to a report by Japanese site Goo-net, Honda could launch a Type S version of the new Prelude in 2026, about a year after the standard model arrives. In 2027, the hot Type R is rumored to be on its way, and this will receive more substantial updates to its design, powertrain, and suspension.
While Honda has not confirmed these new models, the new Prelude is the ideal base for sportier variants. It’s already a good-looking coupe, but as we’ve seen with the Civic Hatchback, Type R specification can transform a humble Honda into something completely different.
The Prelude Type R may not receive the Civic Type R’s fiery turbo engine, though. Instead, Honda could use an uprated version of its two-motor hybrid system. That could also imply the implementation of the normal Prelude’s S+ Shift transmission, which simulates actual gearshifts. Still, with 300 hp or more, this hot Prelude should be much more engaging to drive.
Honda Hasn’t Ruled Out Prelude Type R
In a recent interview with Top Gear, chief engineer of the Prelude, Tomoyuki Yamagami, was asked about the possibility of a Type R variant.
“It’s a very difficult question, of course, and you can’t expect a direct answer,” said the engineer. “We have been talking for years now about whether there will be a hybrid Type R in the future or a battery-electric Type R in the future,” he continued. “What we’ve always said is that Type R is not dependent on the method of propulsion.”
That response appears to support the rumor that if there is to be a Prelude Type R, it could very well be an electrified model.
Yamagami made a good point that there was a lot of criticism when the turbocharged Civic Type R was introduced, as purists believed it should’ve been naturally aspirated like previous hot Hondas. Today, nobody complains about the Civic Type R being turbocharged; it’s simply a hugely capable hatchback.
Hopefully, we end up feeling the same way about the new Prelude Type R, even if it’s a hybrid without a manual.