All-New 2026 Honda Prelude | Arriving Soon at El Cerrito Honda
The All-New 2026 Honda Prelude Arrives at El Cerrito Honda
The legendary Honda Prelude is reborn and arriving at El Cerrito Honda this late fall, inspired by its legacy of innovation and dynamic styling. This sixth-generation sports coupe is a testament to the "joy of driving" for a new era, delivering an engaging 'Grand Touring' experience with precise steering and responsive handling, while remaining comfortable for everyday use. The 2026 Prelude is the first model to pair the powerful and efficient two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain with high-performance Civic Type R chassis components.
Experience Pure Driving Engagement
The 2026 Honda Prelude is engineered to deliver a focused and highly responsive driving experience, starting with its powerful hybrid-electric system that produces a combined 200 horsepower and a robust 232 lb-ft of torque for quick acceleration out of corners. The vehicle features the debut of "Honda S+ Shift"—an innovative new drive mode that simulates a performance transmission experience with virtual rev-matched downshifts and enhanced engine sounds, increasing driver feel and connection. This front-wheel drive coupe balances its dynamic performance with a chassis that includes the dual-axis strut front suspension and Adaptive Dampers, both shared with the Civic Type R but uniquely tuned to deliver a sporty yet comfortable grand touring feel.
Key Features of the 2026 Honda Prelude
The 2026 Honda Prelude will be available in one extremely well-equipped trim, ensuring that performance, technology, and safety are all included as standard equipment. This single trim level features a premium, driver-focused cabin with leather-trimmed sport seats and a low cowl/thin A-pillars for exceptional forward visibility. Technology is seamless, featuring a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch HD touchscreen with Google built-in and a complimentary 3-year unlimited data plan. Beyond the standard full Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, the Prelude includes the Post-Collision Braking System (PCB) and next-generation airbag technology for advanced passive safety.
- Brembo™ 4-Piston Front Calipers: Shared with the Civic Type R and finished in a unique Prelude Blue for exceptional stopping power.
- Honda S+ Shift: New drive mode with alloy paddle shifters that simulates performance shifting with rev-matching downshifts.
- Advanced Aerodynamics: Sophisticated design with a front under spoiler and flat rear liftgate edge provides optimal downforce for stability.
Since the 2026 Honda Prelude is offered in a single, well-appointed configuration, you receive the full complement of advanced features and performance hardware without needing to choose between options packages. Every model comes equipped with a Bose premium sound system, 19-inch Berlina Black wheels, and a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel. Inside, the ultra-premium front sport seats feature asymmetrical bolstering, providing the driver with firmer padding and more prominent lower thigh support for a secure seating position during spirited driving, while the passenger enjoys a wider, more relaxed seat for everyday comfort—a thoughtful detail engineered for a true grand touring experience.
Prelude Exclusive Details
Honda S+ Shift Technology
The next generation of driver engagement. This advanced system uses paddle shifters and precise engine management to deliver the feel of a traditional sports transmission with quick, simulated shifts. Enjoy performance features like rev matching and downshift blips, seamlessly coordinated between the engine and high-power motor. Coming soon to future Honda hybrid electric models.
Civic Type R Chassis DNA
The Type R's dual-axis front suspension, wide track, and massive brakes for superior handling and stopping power. Tuned exclusively for the Prelude, the standard Adaptive Damper System and four selectable drive modes—including GT and Sport—let you tailor the drive, delivering a comfortable grand touring feel with thrilling driver engagement.
Brembo™ Front Brakes
The Prelude delivers exceptional braking performance by sharing its robust front and rear systems with the Civic Type R. It features massive, lightweight 13.8-inch front rotors paired with powerful Brembo™ monobloc four-piston calipers. These high-performance aluminum calipers are finished in a signature Prelude blue. The rear rotors measure 12.0 inches.
Asymmetrical Sport Seats
Leather-trimmed front sport seats with perforated houndstooth pattern, integrated head restraints and three-way heating
Available Exterior Colors
The 2026 Prelude is available in five bold colors, including the new Winter Frost Pearl, which is available with either a bodycolor or black roof option. Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Rallye Red also are available, along with Boost Blue Pearl.
Seamless Financing and Trade-In Options
We understand that financing is a crucial part of the car-buying process. That's why El Cerrito Honda has a dedicated finance team to help you secure great terms for your new Prelude. We work with a variety of lenders to provide flexible buying and leasing options that fit your budget goals.
Our finance experts are here to guide you through the process, answering your questions and ensuring you feel confident in your decisions. If you want to trade in your current vehicle, our team will provide a fair and transparent valuation, making it simple to transition into the exciting new Honda Prelude. Get a head start on the process by exploring our quick online pre-qualification tools today.
- Competitive rates and flexible payment plans.
- Easy pre-qualification application process.
- Fair and transparent valuation for your trade-in vehicle.
Get started by visiting our Financing page. Let us help you make the dream of driving the new Prelude a reality.
Exceptional Service and Maintenance
Our commitment to you doesn't end after the sale. We have a state-of-the-art service center staffed with certified technicians who are experts in Honda vehicles, including the advanced hybrid systems of the new Prelude. From routine care to keeping the performance systems operating at their peak, we are equipped to keep your sports coupe running smoothly for years to come.
We use Genuine Honda Parts and the latest diagnostic equipment to ensure your vehicle receives the highest quality care. We also offer convenient online scheduling and service specials to make maintenance as easy as possible. Protecting your investment and ensuring you continue to enjoy the Prelude's dynamic performance is our priority.
- Expert Honda technicians trained on the new hybrid powertrain.
- Genuine Honda Parts for guaranteed quality and fit.
- Convenient online scheduling for your maintenance appointments.
Schedule your service appointment today and experience the difference at El Cerrito Honda. We are always ready to assist you.
Why Visit El Cerrito Honda for Your New Prelude?
When you visit El Cerrito Honda that serves the entire East Bay area, you benefit from staff who are deeply familiar with the nuances of the Honda brand and the specialized features of the 2026 Prelude. They can walk you through the specifics of the Honda S+ Shift system, explain the engineering behind the Civic Type R chassis components, and demonstrate how the four selectable drive modes (Comfort, GT, Sport, and Individual) personalize your driving feel. They are focused on matching you with the ideal vehicle, one that aligns perfectly with your driving style, daily commute, and personal aesthetic.
In a competitive market like the Bay Area, shopping for a car should be a streamlined and respectful process. By choosing to visit El Cerrito Honda, you are investing your time in a location known for providing customer focus and expertise on the most exciting new models. Stop by and discover the compelling reasons why so many local drivers choose to start and continue their ownership experience right here, and be one of the first to experience the thrill of the reborn Honda Prelude.
Getting Here From the East Bay Area
Getting to El Cerrito Honda is simple. We are conveniently located right off San Pablo Avenue, easily accessible from I-80, I-580, and major East Bay roadways. Plan your visit today.
Where is El Cerrito Honda?
Neighborhoods We Serve Near El Cerrito, CA
El Cerrito Honda is proud to serve many neighborhoods across the East Bay and beyond, including our neighbors in Richmond, Berkeley, and Oakland. We are here to serve the communities nearby.
- Richmond
- Berkeley
- San Rafael
- San Pablo
- Albany
- Kensington
- Pinole
We are committed to providing top-notch service to all our customers in the region. We are here to assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Honda Prelude
What is the total horsepower of the new Honda Prelude?
The 2026 Honda Prelude features a two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain that delivers a combined system output of 200 horsepower and up to 232 lb-ft of torque.
Does the Prelude have different trim levels?
The 2026 Honda Prelude is offered as a single, fully-equipped model, simplifying the decision process and ensuring all buyers receive the high-performance chassis and technology features as standard.
What is the Honda S+ Shift feature?
The Honda S+ Shift is an innovative drive mode exclusive to the Prelude that simulates a performance transmission experience, using paddle shifters to execute rev-matched simulated gear changes for greater driver engagement.
What chassis technology does the Prelude use?
The Prelude incorporates high-performance chassis hardware from the Civic Type R, including a dual-axis strut front suspension and Brembo four-piston front calipers, providing precision handling and confident stopping power.
Does El Cerrito Honda accept trade-ins for the new Prelude?
Absolutely. We encourage you to trade in your current vehicle toward the purchase or lease of the new Prelude. Our team provides a transparent and fair valuation.
What are the interior technology features?
The Prelude features a driver-focused cockpit with a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9-inch HD touchscreen with Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a premium Bose audio system.
El Cerrito Honda is your trusted source for the exciting 2026 Honda Prelude. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service and helping you be one of the first to experience this dynamic sports coupe. We invite you to visit our showroom to learn more.
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