Sorry, folks: New Honda Prelude NOT coming to SA

Bad news, Honda fans: the new Honda Prelude is not coming to South Africa, with the Japanese brand’s local division citing “cost viability” and “limited demand” as reasons…

New 6th-generation Prelude ruled out for South Africa
Local arm’s decision comes after “careful consideration”
Brand cites “cost” and “limited demand” as reasons

Hoping to see the new Honda Prelude in South Africa? Well, we have some bad news: Honda Motor Southern Africa has announced that the 6th-generation model will not be launched locally.

As a reminder, in October 2023, the Japanese automaker unveiled the Prelude Concept at Japan Mobility Show 2023, some 22 years after this storied nameplate was put out to pasture. The production version officially went on sale in Japan in early September 2025.

“As much as we’d love to see the Prelude back on South African roads, the decision not to introduce this model locally comes after careful consideration of several key factors, including cost viability, overall segment performance and limited demand within the sports coupé category,” said Callon Locke, Manager for Product & Retail Marketing at Honda Motor Southern Africa.

“Honda remains committed to offering a range of vehicles that truly meet the needs and preferences of South African customers, focusing on models that deliver exceptional value, efficiency, and everyday usability. We sincerely appreciate the ongoing enthusiasm and support from our loyal Honda fans and customers across the country,” Locke concluded.

The BF1-series Honda Prelude employs a version of the brand’s hybrid powertrain (seemingly borrowed from the Civic e:HEV offer in some markets), combining a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 2-motor hybrid system and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

According to Honda Japan’s website, the petrol engine makes 104 kW and 182 Nm, while the electric set-up contributes 135 kW and 315 Nm. The front-wheel-drive Prelude – which measures 4 520 mm from nose to tail – has a listed weight of 1 460 kg, while various Civic Type R chassis components have been incorporated underneath.

To refresh your memory, the Prelude was originally built between 1978 and 2001, with 5 generations on offer. Though the 1st-generation version wasn’t officially sold in South Africa, our market did receive the next 4 models. All were 2-door coupés using the front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. Globally, the 2nd-gen model was by far the best-selling Prelude, with sales dropping off drastically over the following generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why is the new Honda Prelude not being launched in South Africa?

A: Honda Motor Southern Africa has ruled out the 6th-generation Prelude for the local market, citing reasons of cost viability, the overall segment performance and limited demand within the sports coupé category.

Q: What are the key specifications of the new Honda Prelude’s powertrain?

A: The 6th-generation Honda Prelude employs a hybrid powertrain (likely from the Civic e:HEV) combining a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 2-motor hybrid system and a CVT. The petrol engine makes 104 kW and 182 Nm, while the electric setup contributes 135 kW and 315 Nm.

Q: When was the Prelude nameplate originally retired and when did the new model debut?

A: The original Honda Prelude was built across five generations between 1978 and 2001 before being retired. The new 6th-generation model was unveiled as the Prelude Concept in October 2023 and the production version went on sale in Japan in early September 2025.