The 2025 Honda Prelude returns as a turbocharged coupe starting around $38,000

Honda brought back the Prelude nameplate in 2024 after a 27-year gap, positioning it as a mid-range sports coupe between the Civic Si and the NSX. The 2025 model year continues with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. All-wheel drive is available on most trims, which shifts power delivery and handling characteristics compared to the front-wheel-drive base configuration.

Pricing for the 2025 Prelude starts at approximately $38,000 for the base model, with higher trims and the all-wheel-drive option adding $2,000 to $4,000 depending on the configuration. Honda has not announced significant price increases from the 2024 model year, though dealer markups and regional pricing variations mean your actual cost will depend on location and current inventory levels.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2025 Prelude uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 255 horsepower, available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
  • Base pricing sits around $38,000, with all-wheel-drive models and higher trims adding $2,000 to $4,000 to that figure.
  • The manual transmission is standard; Honda does not offer an automatic option on this generation.
  • Fuel economy estimates are approximately 24 miles per gallon city and 32 highway for front-wheel-drive models, with slight reductions for all-wheel-drive versions.
  • The Prelude competes directly with the Subaru BRZ, Toyota GR86, and Hyundai Veloster N rather than mainstream compact coupes.

Engine performance and transmission options

The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is the only powerplant available across all 2025 Prelude trims. This engine delivers its peak torque at 2,000 rpm, which means acceleration feels responsive even at lower speeds compared to naturally aspirated competitors. The six-speed manual transmission is the sole gearbox offered—Honda has not included an automatic option, which narrows the potential buyer pool but appeals to enthusiasts who prioritize driver engagement.

Real-world acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 6.3 seconds in front-wheel-drive configuration and roughly 6.5 seconds with all-wheel drive engaged, according to independent testing. Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph. Fuel economy ratings from the EPA are 24 city / 32 highway / 27 combined for front-wheel-drive models, and 23 city / 30 highway / 26 combined for all-wheel-drive versions when running on regular unleaded gasoline.

All-wheel drive versus front-wheel drive handling

The base Prelude comes with front-wheel drive, which concentrates engine torque through the front wheels and creates understeer characteristics at the limit. This setup is lighter and less expensive, and it provides more interior space because there is no transmission tunnel running through the cabin. Front-wheel-drive Preludes are also easier to recover from oversteer for less experienced drivers.

All-wheel-drive Preludes distribute power to all four wheels through an electronically controlled clutch system, which improves traction during acceleration and provides more neutral handling balance through corners. The trade-off is added weight (approximately 150 pounds), slightly reduced fuel economy, and a higher purchase price. All-wheel drive becomes more valuable if you live in a region with frequent snow or rain, or if you plan to drive the car on a track where maximum grip matters.

Interior features and technology

The 2025 Prelude interior centers on a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard on base models, with an 8-inch screen available on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included, though they require a wired connection rather than wireless pairing. Climate control is automatic on most trims, and the cabin offers seating for four adults with a rear bench that is tight but usable for short trips.

Storage space is limited by the coupe body style—the trunk holds 11.9 cubic feet, and there are no rear doors, so loading passengers or cargo requires planning. Wireless phone charging is available on certain trim levels. The instrument cluster is a 7-inch digital display that can be customized to show different driving information, including turbo boost pressure and g-force during cornering.

Safety ratings and driver information systems

The 2025 Prelude has not yet received a full crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), as these evaluations typically occur months after a model year begins production. Honda's standard safety package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, and automatic emergency braking on all trims.

A blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert comes standard, and a 360-degree camera system is available on higher trims. The car has six airbags as standard. Because the Prelude is a new model with limited real-world crash data, insurance companies may charge higher premiums than for established competitors until loss history accumulates.

How the Prelude compares to direct competitors

The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are the closest competitors in price and intent—both are turbocharged or naturally aspirated sports coupes with manual transmissions and starting prices in the $28,000 to $32,000 range. The BRZ and GR86 are lighter and more track-focused, but they produce less horsepower (228 hp for the BRZ, 228 hp for the GR86) and lack turbocharged torque. The Prelude's all-wheel-drive option and higher power output appeal to buyers who want more everyday usability alongside weekend performance.

The Hyundai Veloster N is another manual-transmission coupe starting around $33,000, with 275 horsepower and front-wheel drive. It offers a more aggressive design and a slightly lower price, but the Prelude's all-wheel-drive availability and Honda's reputation for reliability may justify the higher cost for some buyers. The Civic Si, Honda's own entry-level sports car, starts around $28,000 and offers similar turbocharged power in a sedan body, making it a choice for buyers who prioritize practicality over coupe styling.

Trim levels and what each includes

Honda structures the 2025 Prelude around three main trim levels: base, EX, and Advance. The base model includes the 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, and all standard safety features. The EX trim adds the 8-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging, and upgraded interior materials. The Advance trim includes the 360-degree camera system, premium audio, and additional convenience features.

All-wheel drive is available across all three trims and adds approximately $2,000 to the purchase price. No special editions or limited-production variants have been announced for 2025. Dealer inventory and regional availability vary, so checking with local Honda dealerships for current stock and pricing is the most reliable way to understand what is actually available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Prelude come with an automatic transmission?

No. The 2025 Prelude is available only with a six-speed manual transmission. Honda has not announced plans to offer an automatic gearbox on this generation, so buyers must be comfortable operating a clutch and shifting gears themselves.

What is the fuel tank capacity and driving range?

The Prelude has a 14.0-gallon fuel tank. With an estimated 27 miles per gallon combined (front-wheel drive), the theoretical driving range is approximately 378 miles on a full tank. Real-world range varies based on driving habits, terrain, and whether you use all-wheel drive.

Can I get the Prelude with all-wheel drive on every trim?

Yes. All-wheel drive is available as an option on the base, EX, and Advance trims. It adds approximately $2,000 to the price and reduces fuel economy by roughly 1 mile per gallon across the board.

How does the Prelude's warranty compare to competitors?

Honda includes a three-year / 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty on all 2025 Preludes. This matches the coverage offered by Toyota and Subaru on the GR86 and BRZ, though Hyundai extends its basic warranty to five years / 60,000 miles on the Veloster N.

Is the Prelude suitable for daily driving or just weekend use?

The Prelude can serve as a daily driver, though the manual transmission, limited rear seat space, and small trunk mean it works best for single occupants or couples without frequent passengers. The turbocharged engine provides adequate power for highway merging, and the all-wheel-drive option improves traction in wet conditions.