Honda Malaysia Opens Bookings for the All-New Prelude Ahead of Q2 2026 Launch

Honda Malaysia has opened bookings for the all-new Honda Prelude ahead of its planned Q2 2026 launch, marking the return of one of the brand’s most beloved nameplates and the debut of S+ Shift technology in Malaysia.

The Prelude’s revival comes as Honda Malaysia’s first e:HEV hybrid sports coupe, powered by a 2.0-litre i-MMD series-parallel hybrid powertrain carried over from the Civic e:HEV. The setup pairs a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with an electric drive unit combining both generator and traction motors, producing 184 PS and 315 Nm to the front wheels. At higher speeds, the engine can also drive the wheels directly when efficiency calls for it, pushing combined output to 203 hp. Honda quotes a 0-100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h.

While the powertrain is shared with the Civic e:HEV, the Prelude borrows its chassis credentials from a more illustrious source. The dual-axis front suspension, adaptive dampers, steering system and larger Brembo brakes all come from the FL5 Civic Type R, giving the Prelude a more performance-oriented foundation than its coupe silhouette might initially suggest. It also rides on 19-inch aluminium wheels and sits at 4,522mm long, 1,880mm wide and 1,355mm tall on a 2,605mm wheelbase.

The headline feature, however, is S+ Shift, making its Malaysian debut here. Activated via a dedicated button on the centre console, the system uses precise coordination between the engine and dual electric motors alongside Active Sound Control to simulate the sensation of an eight-speed gearbox, complete with engine revs that rise and fall in sync with each simulated shift. A shift hold function also lets drivers maintain a simulated gear ratio for more precise control through corners.

Beyond S+ Shift, the Prelude offers four drive modes in Sport, GT, Comfort and Individual. The Individual mode opens up six customisable settings covering the powertrain, steering, suspension, meter display, engine sound and adaptive cruise control. Safety kit includes Honda SENSING as standard, alongside Blind Spot Information and Cross Traffic Monitor systems.

On the exterior, aerodynamic touches include a laser-brazed roofline, flush door handles and a black chrome grille with subtle blue accents on the front and rear bumpers. LED headlights with enhanced Active Cornering Lights and LED rear combi lights with red lens round out the look.

Malaysian pricing has yet to be confirmed. For reference, the Prelude in Japan starts from JPY6.2 million, which works out to roughly RM157,000, placing it above the FL5 Civic Type R in that market.

Alongside the Prelude announcement, Honda Malaysia has also launched its Hybrid Done Right campaign running from 1 April to 30 June 2026. Customers purchasing any Honda e:HEV model during this period receive an additional RM2,000 cash rebate and free labour service for the first two years, along with a monthly lucky draw entry for a chance to drive the Prelude for a week post-launch. Existing Honda hybrid owners can also participate by sharing their best full-tank fuel consumption figures on social media, with top performers winning a one-year free service package.

Bookings for the all-new Honda Prelude can be placed at prebook.honda.com.my.