Hybrid with the chassis from the Civic Type R: Honda has officially revived the Prelude coupé
Honda has officially unveiled the sixth-generation production Prelude. The two-door coupe hits the US market this autumn and brings the iconic model back into the line-up, this time with a hybrid setup.
Here's What We Know
Under the bonnet is the familiar Civic Hybrid scheme with a 2.0-litre non-turbo petrol engine and two electric motors. This system develops 200 hp and 315 Nm (232 lb⋅ft) of torque. Curiously, the power output is the same as the fifth-generation Prelude from 2001, but the torque has increased significantly - the old model had only 212 Nm (156 lb⋅ft).
The Prelude is again a platform for new technologies: instead of the classic gearbox, the Honda S+ Shift system is used, which imitates sporty shifting with throttle up, gear hold and selection of optimal engine speeds.
The chassis has been transferred to the coupe from Civic Type R: adaptive shock absorbers are reconfigured for quieter trips on long distances, and Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers and two-piece discs are responsible for confident deceleration. However, the calipers are now painted blue, and 19-inch wheels can be ordered with 235/40 R19 summer tyres.
The coupe has received several driving modes - Comfort, GT, Sport and Individual, which change the response of the powertrain, steering wheel settings, suspension and dashboard design. For the first time the updated system Agile Handling Assist with imitation of traction vectoring by brakes is used.
The interior is traditionally richer than the Civic, with leather-trimmed sports seats, blue stitching and the Prelude logo on the headrests. The interior is available in two-colour (blue/white) or all-black. The driver's seat has stiffer side bolsters, and a branded nameplate is embroidered on the front panel.
The technology is also familiar from other models: media system with a 9-inch screen and Google Built-in, 10.2-inch digital dashboard, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as acoustics Bose with eight speakers. The rear row seats two passengers. The backrest of the second row folds down, increasing the capacity of the boot.
Design of the novelty is not a surprise - it was shown two years ago. Five colours will be offered to buyers, including Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Rally Red and bright blue Boost Blue Pearl. The list of accessories includes spoilers, several wheel designs, black emblems and mirror caps.
Pricing has not been announced yet. According to a company spokesperson, the Prelude will fall "between the Civic Sport Touring Hybrid and the Civic Type R," that is, in the range of $34,690 to $47,090. Given the model's equipment and positioning, we can expect a price closer to the upper end.
Source: Roadandtrack
