Honda grabbed headlines last year with the return of the Prelude, unveiling a near-production coupe concept at the Japan Mobility Show. While the automaker kept the specs under wraps, Japanese media has been speculating about its features. A new report now suggests that the new Prelude might marry its hybrid powertrain with a six-speed manual transmission—a combo that could finally give enthusiasts something to cheer about.

The sixth-generation of the Prelude is expected to share its underpinnings with the Honda Civic. Unlike the latter, which is available as a five-door hatchback and a four-door sedan, the Prelude will maintain its identity as a two-door coupe, signaling its sporty focus.

More: Should Honda Make A Prelude Type R Coupe?

Currently, the sportiest variant of the Honda Civic lineup—aside from the Type R—is the new RS trim, which was recently introduced in Japan as part of a mild facelift. This version features a six-speed manual gearbox paired with an ICE-only turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, along with a rev-matching function and a sportier suspension setup.

According to Japanese outlet Best Car, sources have hinted that, alongside the conventional (and often maligned) CVT, the Prelude could offer a manual gearbox paired with Honda’s e-hybrid system. If true, this would be the first Honda since the discontinued CR-Z to feature a stick shift in a self-charging hybrid setup.
The electrified powertrain is expected to combine a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, similar to what’s found in the Civic and Accord e:HEV models. This combination would allow the Prelude to offer adequate performance, and greater efficiency compared to its non-electrified rivals.

The competition

The only other two-door coupe models in the compact segment are the Toyota GR 86 and Subaru BRZ twins, both of which offer a manual option, along with the more upscale BMW 2-Series Coupe. All of these models are powered by non-hybrid ICE powertrains. Additionally, there’s talk of a potential Toyota Celica revival, which could sport a new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with both manual and automatic transmission options.

The production version of the revived Honda Prelude is scheduled for release in the latter half of 2025. Official confirmations have come in for markets like Japan and Europe, with the U.S. also looking likely, especially since Honda showcased the concept at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show.