Honda Prelude Type R in Works? New Details Suggest Over 300hp Hybrid Beast

Saudi Arabia : Honda's iconic Prelude coupe is coming back in 2025, and reports have hinted at high-performance Type S and Type R versions arriving soon after.

• The revival of Prelude is planned to launch globally in late 2025.
• According to reports, Type S and Type R trims are coming by 2026 and 2027.
• There are expectations of hybrid setup with 300+ hp and advanced “Shift+” gear simulation.

The much-loved Honda Prelude is coming back in a fresh, modern form. The sporty coupe, which was first revealed as a concept in 2023, is expected to officially hit global markets—including Japan, Europe, and North America—by the fall of 2025.

The new Prelude, which is positioned as a more playful and agile option than the Civic, aims to bring back the joy of driving in a cleaner and more modern package. But beyond its standard trim, there have been leaked reports hinting at even more exciting versions on the way.

Performance Trims Reportedly in Development

Reports from Japan suggest that Honda is preparing two high-performance versions of the Prelude. The Prelude Type S will likely arrive in late 2026, followed by the full-blown Prelude Type R in 2027.

Though still unofficial, there has been a rendering hints at a sharp redesign with sporty elements with the aim of making it aesthetics and aerodynamics.

What to Expect from the Type R

• Widened fenders, extended sills, and a large rear spoiler.
• Exclusive wheels and aggressive style bumper.
• Sporty cabin with red accents and bucket seats.
• Digital cluster with Type R graphics.
• Upgraded brakes and a lowered setup of suspension.

Hybrid Power Likely for Future Versions

There have been rumours of a 2.0L turbocharged engine, similar to the Civic Type R’s powerplant. However, new sources now indicate the interest of Honda in using a performance-tuned version of its eHEV hybrid system.

This setup, which is a combination of petrol engine and two self-charging electric motors, could generate over 300 horsepower, which will deliver a performance close to that of the Civic Type R (325 hp).

This would help Honda meet strict European emissions rules, especially since it plans to stop selling the petrol-only Civic Type R in Europe and the UK starting in 2026.

No Manual Gearbox – But Simulated Shifts

A notable change in the sporty trims of the Prelude will likely be the absence of a manual transmission. Instead, drivers will get Honda’s “Shift+” technology.

This system doesn’t use a traditional gearbox but mimics gear changes using sound, torque modulation, and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The experience may not be manual in the true sense, but the aim is to keep drivers engaged and immersed.

Still Waiting for Confirmation

The leaks are exciting, no doubt, but Honda has not confirmed these performance versions. Creative Trend has noted that dealerships in Japan have not received official details, and they haven't yet listed any specs. However, more updates will follow with the base Prelude set to launch this fall.