Mugen Intensifies the Excitement for the New Prelude Coupe | Carscoops

      Japan’s reimagined coupe is already receiving a wave of upgrades from both the factory and Mugen, ranging from expensive carbon kits to subtle styling modifications.

      12 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      Buyers of the Japanese Prelude can enhance their hybrid coupe with optional accessories.

      Mugen provides a more aggressive bodykit featuring BBS wheels and a performance exhaust system.

      Factory accessories consist of aero components, alternative alloy wheels, and interior kits.

      Update: Mugen and Honda’s factory accessories division have both introduced their initial upgrades for the revived coupe. The article has been updated with comprehensive details and new images.

      The highly anticipated return of the Honda Prelude has certainly generated excitement, though not all of it has been positive. Nonetheless, shortly after the coupe made its debut in Japanese showrooms, Honda’s in-house accessories division and its tuning collaborator Mugen quickly stepped in, eager to enhance it with design modifications, interior upgrades, and performance enhancements for those dissatisfied with the factory configuration.

      Additionally: The new Prelude returns to America with features from the Type R but without the expected power.

      From the factory, the Prelude already exhibits a sporty vibe with its black 19-inch alloy wheels and a design inspired by glider aerodynamics. For those seeking a bolder look, Mugen offers a complete carbon fiber bodykit and more aggressive features.

      The Mugen Package

      The Japanese tuner's catalog includes a two-piece front splitter, aerodynamic side skirt fins, redesigned mirror covers, a rear bumper extension with an integrated diffuser, and a three-piece rear spoiler. Buyers may also choose 19-inch forged BBS wheels that reduce unsprung weight by 4 kg (8.8 lbs) at each corner.

      Additionally, there is a Sports Exhaust System featuring a larger muffler, specifically tuned to produce a more robust sound compared to the stock exhaust. For those focused on improved handling, Mugen provides Type S brake pads and performance dampers. On the subtler side, buyers can opt for decals, Mugen emblems, and interior enhancements such as branded floor mats and scuff plates.

      Mugen has not yet disclosed pricing for its carbon kit and exhaust, although the remaining items in the catalog are already available in Japan.

      Notably, the attractive BBS wheels are priced at ¥176,000 ($1,200), performance dampers at ¥143,000 ($960), and brake pads at ¥52,800 ($360). The unique mirrors are priced at ¥110,000 ($740), with an optional hydrophobic film available for an additional ¥55,000 ($370). Interior upgrades range from ¥46,200 ($310) for floor mats to ¥29,700 ($200) for scuff plates.

      Honda Genuine Accessories

      Not all customers will lean towards Mugen, and Honda has anticipated this need. Its Genuine Accessories catalog presents an alternative avenue for personalization, offering exterior and interior enhancements that maintain a more subdued aesthetic.

      More: Honda’s Smallest Electric Car Can Power Your Home And More

      The "Sports Style" package features aerodynamic bumper extensions, grille accents available in white or red, a black rear spoiler, matching mirrors, dark emblems, and a distinctive set of 19-inch alloy wheels with a five double-spoke design. Though more understated than Mugen's options, the factory kit still enhances the coupe's presence.

      Honda has priced its styling enhancements at ¥55,000 ($370) for the splitter, ¥33,000–36,300 ($220–240) for the grille molding, ¥71,500 ($480) for the rear wing, and ¥215,600 ($1,500) for the alloy wheels. Although side skirts are not included, ¥36,300 ($240) mud guards serve a similar purpose. Dark emblems are available for ¥17,600 ($120), while black mirrors are priced at ¥15,400 ($100).

      More: New Prelude Inspires A Modern Take On Honda’s S2000 Roadster

      The company also offers interior options, including floor mats with Prelude lettering priced at ¥79,200 ($530) and a waterproof luggage tray for ¥14,300 ($100). Owners can augment their vehicles with extra LEDs for illuminating cupholders, footrests, the tailgate, and scuff plates, along with Prelude puddle lights.

      No Performance Gains

      Currently, there are no tuning kits available for the self-charging hybrid powertrain of the Prelude, which produces a combined 200 hp (149 kW / 203 PS) from a 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with two electric motors.

      More: Mugen Turns Honda’s Tiny EV Into A Pocket-Sized Street Fighter

      Regarding the chassis, the coupe includes components from the Civic Type R, such as Brembo front brakes, wide tracks, adaptive dampers, and a dual-axis front suspension system. However, the Prelude's settings are slightly oriented toward comfort compared to those of the more performance-focused hot hatch.

      With the new Honda Prelude launched