Honda May Develop a 300 HP Prelude Type R Featuring Simulated Gears | Carscoops

      Honda's revived Prelude coupe may develop into a 300 hp hybrid with simulated gear shifts and striking design.

      Reported 18 hours ago by Thanos Pappas.

      The Honda Prelude is set to make its return in late 2025 as a hybrid coupe alternative to the Civic.

      Recent rumors suggest the introduction of a Prelude Type S in 2026 and a Type R in 2027.

      The flagship Type R variant is expected to feature a powerful twin-motor hybrid system.

      The well-known name is making a comeback with a contemporary twist. Honda is preparing to introduce the new Prelude, anticipated to be available in Europe, Japan, and North America in the fall of 2025. The hybrid coupe aims to serve as a sleeker, sportier option compared to the Civic, built on enhanced foundations and equipped with features tailored for driving enthusiasts.

      Although Honda hasn't officially announced any performance versions yet, recent speculations suggest that Type S and Type R variants might already be in development.

      According to a report from the Japanese publication Goo-net, a sportier Prelude Type S could debut in the fall of 2026, arriving around a year after the base model. An even more aggressive Type R variant is rumored for a 2027 launch, featuring upgrades in design, chassis, and powertrain.

      What to Anticipate From the Performance Versions

      As depicted in our speculative render, the performance flagship of the Prelude lineup, the Type R, could be distinguished by visual enhancements such as wider fenders, custom alloy wheels, extended side skirts, and a redesigned front bumper with larger air intakes. At the rear, expect a more pronounced diffuser and a GT-style rear wing to complete the sporty aesthetic.

      Inside, the cabin is likely to embody a sporty ethos with bucket seats, abundant red accents, and unique digital instrument displays exclusive to the Type R. However, what is particularly intriguing is the speculation surrounding the powertrain.

      A New Direction for Type R Performance

      Earlier reports indicated that the Prelude Type R might adopt the Civic Type R’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. However, more recent speculation suggests a different approach: a more potent version of Honda’s twin-motor, self-charging hybrid system.

      This shift would align the Prelude with increasingly stringent emissions regulations, especially in Europe. It is important to note that the gas-only Civic Type R is set to be removed from European and UK markets in 2026, merely four years after its debut in 2022.

      The upgraded e:HEV system could potentially exceed 300 horsepower, combining a turbocharged internal combustion engine with electric motors. This performance level would place it on par with the Civic Type R, which delivers up to 325 hp (245 kW / 330 PS).

      No Manual, but Simulated Shifting Remains

      A notable change will be the omission of a manual transmission. Honda’s e:HEV setup does not include a conventional gearbox; however, the standard Prelude will offer a “S+ Shift” mode. This system utilizes sound effects, torque modulation, and paddle shifters to simulate gear changes. In the Type R, this simulated shifting may be further enhanced for a more engaging driving experience.

      Regarding handling enhancements, the top-tier Prelude is expected to feature a redesigned chassis with a lower suspension, wider tracks, additional structural reinforcements, and upgraded brakes, all designed to provide sharper responsiveness and improved road feedback.

      Awaiting Confirmation

      While the notion of a 2027 Prelude Type R is intriguing, it remains speculative. The Japanese publication Creative Trend spoke with a Honda dealership that reportedly had no information regarding performance-oriented Prelude variants, at least for 2026.

      With the official launch of the new Prelude approaching this fall, more definitive details may be forthcoming. Until then, all eyes are on Honda to see how far they intend to take the revival of one of their most legendary nameplates.