2026 Honda Prelude interior revealed – with Civic esque interior design

Honda is edging closer to reviving the iconic Prelude nameplate, and the latest reveal gives us our best look yet at the interior of this highly anticipated hybrid sports coupé. The reborn Prelude made an appearance at the Formula 1 Tokyo Fan Festival ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, after being showcased earlier at the Red Bull Showrun—with none other than recently-axed Red Bull Racing driver Liam Lawson behind the wheel.

As expected, the Prelude’s cabin takes heavy inspiration from the 11th-generation Civic, given their shared platform. The dashboard layout features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a nine-inch freestanding infotainment touchscreen, along with a three-spoke steering wheel and the familiar mesh-covered air vents. The physical air-conditioning knobs remain, ensuring a tactile and user-friendly interface.

However, there are some key differences that set the Prelude apart:

• A flat-bottomed steering wheel—a feature not even found on the Civic Type R—complete with a 12 o’clock marker for added sportiness.

• Smaller, hexagon-shaped air vents, replacing the full-width design seen in the Civic.

• A tall centre console, featuring a push-button gear selector, a design common in Honda hybrids outside Malaysia.

• A large S+ button, hinting at an enhanced performance mode.

Additionally, the Prelude comes with deep bucket seats with high shoulders, providing better lateral support for spirited driving.

While exact technical details remain scarce, Honda has confirmed that the Prelude will feature the company’s latest e:HEV hybrid technology, comprising new 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre direct-injected engines paired with a smaller yet more efficient electric motor.

One of the most intriguing additions is the S+ Shift mode, which reportedly simulates gear shifts similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, likely enhancing driver engagement despite the car’s hybrid nature. The Prelude is also expected to borrow key performance components from the Civic Type R, including:

• A dual-axis MacPherson strut front suspension to reduce torque steer.

• Adaptive dampers for improved ride and handling.

It has been more than a year since Honda first previewed the Prelude Concept at the Japan Mobility Show, with the car later making an appearance at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) late last year. With development progressing steadily, the return of the Prelude seems imminent.

Are you excited to see the legendary Prelude name back on the road? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!