Honda has officially unveiled the interior of its much-anticipated 2026 Prelude hybrid sports coupe. The Japanese automaker shared images of the design on its official LinkedIn page, offering the public a glimpse into the upcoming model’s interior.
The Prelude’s interior design draws inspiration from both the Honda Civic and Acura Integra, striking a perfect balance between sportiness and luxury.
The new features include the dashboard design which features a unique row of vents, the Prelude departs from the Civic’s signature full-width metal ventwork. The tech integration which is a digital gauge cluster and touchscreen display—reminiscent of those in the Acura Integra—enhance the cabin’s modernity. While the upscale aesthetics gives a sporty yet premium vibe.
The Prelude establishes itself as a more luxurious alternative to the standard Civic.
The S+ Mode: A Software-Driven Solution
According to reports, the S+ mode is designed to simulate the experience of traditional gearshifts, even though the Prelude lacks a conventional transmission. This is achieved through clever software engineering, where the engine’s power output is modulated to mimic the sensation of upshifts and downshifts.
The shift paddles located behind the steering wheel are expected to play a crucial role in the driving experience. While their exact function remains unclear, they may allow drivers to control the faux gearshifts or regulate the electric motor’s regenerative levels.
The Prelude’s hybrid system employs a gas-powered four-cylinder engine as a generator, which charges the battery and powers the larger electric motor. During acceleration, the engine can engage a single-speed drive to power the wheels directly. However, most of the time, the electric motor is the primary source of propulsion. The S+ mode builds upon this setup, offering an enhanced simulation of gearshifts.
According to Honda, the Prelude will be introduced to the market in late 2025 or early 2026. While the interior design might undergo slight adjustments before the official release, the revealed images offer an exciting preview of what’s to come in this hybrid sports coupe.
