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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 & Lift Electronic Control) in a mass-produced mannequin, in addition to four-wheel steering.
Each 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 automotive fanatics, and Honda Australia itself.
“Prelude taps into a rare combination of nostalgia and performance with broad appeal across generations of Honda customers, old 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 first iteration of the Honda Prelude emerged in 1978 in Japan, and globally over 1979-’82.
Although the Australian presence of this earliest technology was restricted, it served as the start line for the Prelude’s identification: a two-door coupe derived from Accord-based chassis structure.
In world markets it was notable for being one of many first Hondas to hold a factory-fitted moonroof as normal.
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 the moment develop 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 adjustments had been vital and the influence was fast.
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 Fuel Injection) system turned normal in some markets, and the automotive started to hold options beforehand unseen in its class, corresponding to anti-lock braking methods – a primary for Honda.
In Australia the second technology gathered extra recognition than its predecessor. While it nonetheless wasn’t mainstream, the coupe added a sharper picture and proved in style amongst youthful drivers in search of the Honda model reliability plus sporty aptitude.
The mixture of front-wheel drive with improved suspension and a extra aggressive look made the automotive aggressive within the burgeoning performance-coupe market of the mid-Nineteen Eighties.
This technology actually cemented the Prelude as a real sporty Honda, quite than merely a trendy sedan by-product. 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.
While the Australian import numbers had been modest in comparison with mass-market sedans, native fanatics regard this period as a high-point for the Prelude model.
Among its technical options, it launched four-wheel-steering (4WS) – one other world first for Honda – and carried a double-wishbone suspension structure that contributed to its wonderful dealing with.
The efficiency improved too, with 2.0-litre dual-cam engines changing into extra widespread and the automotive’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 the moment.
In some ways it carried the torch for what the nameplate would develop into within the Nineties.
Fourth technology (1992–1996)
The fourth-generation Prelude raised the bar additional.
It changed the pop-up headlight design with fastened headlights, refined aerodynamics and improved inside consolation, presenting a matured sporting coupe.
Under the pores and skin it supplied 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.
While the unique four-wheel steering characteristic was dropped in some markets, the main focus shifted to refinement, energy and dealing with.
However, 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.
Nevertheless, 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 remaining technology of the unique Prelude was a pivotal second.
It wore extra aggressive styling – sharper traces and a bolder profile – and integrated applied sciences corresponding to Honda’s Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS), which improved cornering dynamics.
However, by the late-Nineties the sports-coupe market was underneath stress and gross sales for the Prelude started to say no. Ultimately 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 automotive’s historical past in Australia – from its modest beginnings to its enthusiast-cult standing – comes full circle.
The 5 generations summarised above kind the roots for what Honda hopes might be a significant future for the nameplate within the native market.
MORE: Explore the Honda showroom
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