Honda Prelude

The Prelude first appeared in Australia in the late 1970s, though the first generation was relatively rare locally. It was the second and third generations in the 1980s that truly established the Prelude in the Australian market. The pop-up headlights of the second generation and the world-first four-wheel steering of the third generation made it a standout in the sports coupe segment. By the 1990s, the Prelude had developed a strong enthusiast following in Australia.

The third-generation Prelude introduced Honda's mechanical four-wheel steering (4WS) system in 1988, a world first for a production car. At low speeds, the rear wheels turned opposite to the fronts for tighter turning, while at higher speeds they turned in the same direction for stability. It was a remarkable piece of engineering that gave the Prelude a unique driving character. The system was refined in the fourth generation before being dropped in the fifth.

The fourth-generation Prelude (1992-1996) brought Honda's VTEC variable valve timing to the coupe. The H22A engine produced 140kW from 2.2 litres, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines of its era. Combined with double-wishbone suspension all round, it offered a driving experience that punched well above its price point. The fifth generation continued with the H22A and added the Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS) for improved cornering.

The Prelude was discontinued globally in 2001 as the sports coupe market contracted. For 25 years, the nameplate lay dormant. The sixth-generation Prelude was confirmed for Australia in 2025, arriving mid-2026 as a hybrid sports coupe. It shares its e:HEV powertrain with the Civic hybrid (135kW/315Nm) but is built on the Civic Type R platform with its suspension, wide tracks, and Brembo front brakes. UK pricing suggests an Australian price around $60,000.

The Prelude holds a special place in Australian Honda culture. The fourth and fifth generations are particularly sought after, with clean examples commanding strong prices. The H22A VTEC engine is revered for its smooth power delivery and willingness to rev. The Prelude's return as a hybrid represents a new chapter, blending Honda's sports heritage with electrified efficiency.