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The Honda Prelude is coming again to Australia after a 25-year absence.
It’s an iconic nameplate for the Japanese model that has spawned 5 generations of cutting-edge coupes because it was first launched in 1978.
The Honda Prelude has served as a showcase for innovation through the years, introducing many new applied sciences for the primary time, together with Honda’s cutting-edge VTEC (Variable Valve Timing & Elevate Digital Management) in a mass-produced mannequin, in addition to four-wheel steering.
Every technology has helped form the native fanatic scene and laid the groundwork for the mannequin’s return.
The sixth technology (pictured above) will proceed that custom and usher in an thrilling new chapter for the storied badge in addition to sports activities automobile fanatics, and Honda Australia itself.
“Prelude faucets right into a uncommon mixture of nostalgia and efficiency with broad attraction throughout generations of Honda clients, outdated and new,” stated Honda Australia Director, Robert Thorp.
So, let’s make a journey down reminiscence lane and have a look at the legacy of the Prelude nameplate earlier than the all-new mannequin arrives in native showrooms subsequent 12 months.
First technology (1978–1982)
The primary iteration of the Honda Prelude emerged in 1978 in Japan, and globally over 1979-’82.
Though the Australian presence of this earliest technology was restricted, it served as the start line for the Prelude’s id: a two-door coupe derived from Accord-based chassis structure.
In international markets it was notable for being one of many first Hondas to hold a factory-fitted moonroof as commonplace.
It was aimed extra at youthful patrons wanting one thing sporty however nonetheless dependable and economical quite than outright unique.
In Australia the mannequin was comparatively uncommon, and consequently it has at this time change into a distinct segment collector’s curiosity quite than a typical sight.
From a legacy standpoint, the primary technology established the blueprint: a definite Honda coupe positioned above the common sedan/hatchback fare, favouring driver-oriented packaging and reasonable efficiency.
That basis can be constructed upon extra dramatically with the subsequent generations.
Second technology (1983–1987)
When the second-generation Prelude arrived in 1983, the modifications have been vital and the influence was speedy.
Globally it launched pop-up headlights – an design hallmark of many ’80s and ’90s sports activities coupes – and a decrease, extra dynamic stance.
The engineering additionally superior as Honda’s PGM-FI (Programmed Gasoline Injection) system turned commonplace in some markets, and the automobile started to hold options beforehand unseen in its class, equivalent to anti-lock braking methods – a primary for Honda.
In Australia the second technology gathered extra recognition than its predecessor. Whereas it nonetheless wasn’t mainstream, the coupe added a sharper picture and proved well-liked amongst youthful drivers searching for the Honda model reliability plus sporty aptitude.
The mixture of front-wheel drive with improved suspension and a extra aggressive look made the automobile aggressive within the burgeoning performance-coupe market of the mid-Eighties.
This technology really cemented the Prelude as a real sporty Honda, quite than merely a classy sedan spinoff. It additionally created a following which might eagerly greet the third technology’s arrival.
Third technology (1988–1991)
The third technology of the Prelude launched internationally in 1988 marked one of many mannequin’s most influential chapters.
Whereas the Australian import numbers have been modest in comparison with mass-market sedans, native fanatics regard this period as a high-point for the Prelude model.
Amongst its technical options, it launched four-wheel-steering (4WS) – one other world first for Honda – and carried a double-wishbone suspension format that contributed to its wonderful dealing with.
The efficiency improved too, with 2.0-litre dual-cam engines changing into extra frequent and the automobile’s dynamic capacity making it a favorite amongst driving fanatics.
Its mixture of relative affordability, Honda engineering pedigree and sporty credentials means it nonetheless enjoys a robust following at this time.
In some ways it carried the torch for what the nameplate would change into within the Nineteen Nineties.
Fourth technology (1992–1996)
The fourth-generation Prelude raised the bar additional.
It changed the pop-up headlight design with mounted headlights, refined aerodynamics and improved inside consolation, presenting a matured sporting coupe.
Beneath the pores and skin it provided superior options for its time – notably the VTEC engine variants – in addition to improved suspension that gave it a broad stability between day-to-day usability and sporty driving.
Whereas the unique four-wheel steering characteristic was dropped in some markets, the main focus shifted to refinement, energy and dealing with.
Nonetheless, regardless of its virtues, the broader marketplace for two-door coupes was shrinking and the Prelude confronted competitors from alternate options providing rear-wheel drive and turbocharged energy.
However, the fourth technology cemented the Prelude’s status for dealing with and engineering integrity. And its legacy continues within the collector scene and helps clarify the anticipation surrounding the nameplate’s revival.
Fifth technology (1997–2001)
The fifth and last technology of the unique Prelude was a pivotal second.
It wore extra aggressive styling – sharper strains and a bolder profile – and included applied sciences equivalent to Honda’s Energetic Torque Switch System (ATTS), which improved cornering dynamics.
Nonetheless, by the late-Nineteen Nineties the sports-coupe market was beneath strain and gross sales for the Prelude started to say no. Finally Honda discontinued the nameplate globally in 2001.
This technology’s finish marked the closing of the primary chapter of the Prelude story in Australia. Its legacy is robust, and its status for efficiency, chassis sophistication and club-culture standing stored the identify alive.
With the arrival of the new-generation Prelude in 2026, the automobile’s historical past in Australia – from its modest beginnings to its enthusiast-cult standing – comes full circle.
The 5 generations summarised above type the roots for what Honda hopes will likely be a significant future for the nameplate within the native market.
MORE: Discover the Honda showroom
