### How Does It Drive? The new Honda Prelude is a hybrid coupe built on the Civic platform, and it's a fascinating blend of character and consistency. The S+ Shift system, which simulates eight forward gears, is a clever technology that enhances the driving experience. While it may not make the Prelude quicker, it does increase engagement, and the fake engine noise pumped into the cockpit adds to the fun. The powertrain is a 2.0-liter inline-four with two electric motors, producing a total of 200 horsepower. The result is a car that's engaging and enjoyable, even if it's not truly performance-oriented. ### What's It Like to Live With? The Prelude is a practical car that's comfortable and easy on fuel. The interior materials are exceptional, and the seats are perfectly shaped. The cargo space is relatively high, making it suitable for weekend getaways. The Prelude is also a great handler, ...
### How Does It Drive?
The new Honda Prelude is a hybrid coupe built on the Civic platform, and it’s a fascinating blend of character and consistency. The S+ Shift system, which simulates eight forward gears, is a clever technology that enhances the driving experience. While it may not make the Prelude quicker, it does increase engagement, and the fake engine noise pumped into the cockpit adds to the fun. The powertrain is a 2.0-liter inline-four with two electric motors, producing a total of 200 horsepower. The result is a car that’s engaging and enjoyable, even if it’s not truly performance-oriented.
### What’s It Like to Live With?
The Prelude is a practical car that’s comfortable and easy on fuel. The interior materials are exceptional, and the seats are perfectly shaped. The cargo space is relatively high, making it suitable for weekend getaways. The Prelude is also a great handler, with a steering feel that’s light, delicate, and delightful. The brakes are excellent, with big 13.8-inch discs up front.
### Should I Buy One?
The Prelude is a low-volume car built for a specialized audience. If you want a small coupe, hybrid or not, the options are severely limited. The Prelude is a great choice for those who value handling and comfort above all else. It’s not cheap, but the alternatives are few and far between.
### Highlights and Lowlights
We Love:
– Great handling
– High quality and excellent finish
– Comfortable and easy on fuel
We Don’t:
– Goofball recessed door handles
– Eight fake ratios aren’t as good as six real manual ones
– Lacks power seats
Favorite Detail:
This is the only Honda automobile currently for sale in North America with fewer than four doors. Coupes may not be for everyone, but this thing spits in the eye of crossover-SUV conventional wisdom. That’s something for which those of us who care about cars should be grateful.
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