The Critics Were WRONG! (Honda Prelude 2026 Review)

The Honda Prelude has returned to Australian roads after over two decades, reigniting a legendary nameplate that made the brand a powerhouse of innovation in the 80s and 90s. Distinctively a sports coupe, rather than a sports car, the Prelude is paired exclusively with a Civic-derived petrol-hybrid system, producing 135kW of power and 315Nm of torque. Those outputs don’t set the world on fire, but the hybrid does promise frugal fuel consumption and a relaxing driving experience and enough electric punch out of the bends to see off rivals such as the Subaru BRZ, while doing so in complete comfort. At $65,000 driveaway, the Prelude is also considerably more affordable than rivals such as the BMW 220i or Ford Mustang, but can this more comfort-oriented approach to a coupe really work in 2026? In today’s review, senior contributor Iain Curry investigates on road and on track, before delivering our verdict. Time codes: 0:00 - Intro 0:26 - Prelude legend 2:22 - Design 3:20 - Boot 4:19 - Interior 7:40 - Technology 8:43 - Back seat 9:20 - Driving on track 12:50 - Driving on road 16:04 - Safety tech 17:15 - Why no Type R? 17:48 - Verdict As always, we don’t accept advertising from car manufacturers, and we’re powered by Budget Direct. Subscribe now! https://www.youtube.com/user/ChasingCarsAustralia?sub_confirmation=1 Chasing Cars on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chasingcarsaustralia/ Follow Chasing Cars on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chasingcars.com.au/ Chasing Cars is Australia's most independent source of new car reviews, car industry news, comparisons and car guides. We give you a critical look at every new car you should consider! Budget Direct Car Insurance is issued by Auto & General Insurance Company. See PDS & TMD at budgetdirect.com.au