The New Prelude

A lot has been said online about the new Prelude, and not all of it positive.  In this current landscape of dual cabs, SUVs and electric cars it was indeed a bold move by Honda to create a new incarnation of one of its most loved models, in a category that barely exists today. I so wanted it be great. Having lived with one for a week, I can tell it’s not great. 

It’s spectacular. 

It looks so much better in the metal than in photos where some of the nuanced swage lines are lost. The interior is sumptuous with the contrasting lower dash and console add light and interest to the ambience. The detail of the stitching and textures and the font of the badging that is taken from the fourth gen Prelude add a real point of difference. The view from the driver’s seat over the bonnet is framed by the slight bulges over the wheel arches make it feel even more premium. A very pleasant place to be. 

And the driving is as good. Honda’s seamless hybrid tech with the two litre is smooth and efficient, with plenty of power (don’t believe the journos who only rate by figures!) and the simulated gear shifts and selectable drive modes add as much or as little real engagement to any drive. And the little Easter eggs under the seatbelt straps are a nice retro touch. One is the date the first Prelude was released in Japan, and the other is the original concept line for the shape of the new car. It’s a cracker of car. 

The last two photos are taken around 15 years apart at the same spot with the same driver. Alot has changed in that time, but the Prelude remains a great car, and one very worthy of being revived. If you get a chance, go and take one for a test drive. You’ll see what I mean. Thank goodness it’s better than great.