Honda's prelude coupe returns with hybrid power for Europe

One of Honda's more iconic models, the Prelude, is set to hit European roads. It won't be an SUV, but a coupe. What's more, it will have a hybrid system under the hood.

Theoretically, the Prelude is still in the concept phase, but practically, the new red version only differs from previous iterations in color. In practice, the Prelude looks like a long-awaited Civic in coupe form.

Early rumors suggested the car would be electric, but the European division announced that the hybrid system would come "to us." "We want to ensure that this model retains its sporty DNA," says Tomoyuki Yamagami, chief engineer and project manager.

Honda's hybrid system is unique but efficient. The combustion engine primarily serves as a generator, and only when hitting the highway does it connect directly to the wheels. There is also a plug-in variant, but we only get that version in the CR-V model.

The most likely scenario is the transfer of the powertrain from the Civic, which has a 2-liter engine and a 1.05 kWh battery. The gasoline engine's power is 143 HP, but the system offers 184 HP. Sprinting to 60 mph takes 8 seconds, and the top speed is 112 mph.

The Prelude is set to appear at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. As for when it will hit showrooms, that remains unknown.