by Michael Gauthier
- Report claims the new Honda Prelude will start at $38,000 MSRP.
- Pricing remains unannounced, though Honda admits it won’t be cheap.
- The coupe launches this fall with a 200 hp hybrid powertrain setup.
We always knew the Honda Prelude was going to be expensive, but it could give people sticker shock. That’s because a new report is claiming the car will start at $38,000.
MotorTrend casually dropped that number in a recent story, but Honda downplayed it when we talked to them. While they didn’t say the publication was wrong, the spokesperson told us “We have not announced Prelude pricing yet for the U.S.”
More: Honda Responds After New Prelude Does 0-62 Slower Than A Base Corolla
However, they noted the model starts at ¥6,179,800 in Japan and that equates to $40,060. The spokesperson also pointed out they have previously said pricing is expected to start “somewhere between the Civic Sport Touring and Civic Type R.”
The former Civic begins at $32,295, while the latter Type R starts at $45,895. That’s a wide range, but the average of those two numbers is $39,095. This is basically halfway between MotorTrend’s apparent estimate and converted Japanese pricing.
So while we still don’t know how much the Prelude will cost, it will likely be pretty expensive. To put things into perspective, we’ll remind you the 2026 Toyota GR86 starts at $30,800, while the Subaru BRZ will set you back $35,860. It’s also impossible to overlook the $32,320 Ford Mustang, while also noting these three models are all more powerful than the Honda.
Low On Power, But Nicely Equipped
None of this bodes well for the Prelude, which arrives at U.S. dealerships later this fall. As a refresher, it sports a hybridized 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces a combined output of 200 hp (149 kW / 203 PS) and 232 lb-ft (314 Nm) of torque.
Those numbers are far from impressive, but the Prelude will only be offered in one well-equipped trim that includes a wireless smartphone charger, heated perforated leather sport seats, and an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system. They’ll be joined by a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch infotainment system with Google built-in.
Other highlights include adaptive dampers and Brembo front brakes. Buyers will also find 19-inch wheels and the Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance systems.
All of this suggests Honda is positioning the Prelude as a premium coupe, which could help to justify a high price tag. However, low power and high price isn’t exactly a winning combination for enthusiasts.
