Summary
- 2026 Honda Prelude to exclude manual transmission due to hybrid powertrain.
- Prelude to utilize Civic Hybrid’s platform and propulsion tech with CVT.
- Honda may introduce a simulated manual transmission for future EVs.
It seems the hotly anticipated 2026 Honda Prelude might do without one of the most beloved pieces of equipment by sports car fans: the manual transmission. MotorTrend recently learned that Honda will omit the manual and keep the Prelude automatic after speaking with one of Big H’s top executives.
The outlet spoke to Honda’s global electrification officer, Shinji Aoyama, who disclosed the unfortunate news for the new sixth-gen model. Part of the supposed reason that the Prelude will not come with a manual is due to the fact that it’ll sport a hybrid powertrain. However, a manual-equipped gas-electric hybrid has been done before, particularly by Honda, with the CR-Z hatchback. Although Honda’s saying it now, there’s always a chance that things could change in the future, should the demand truly exist in the market.
The New Prelude Will Use Civic Hybrid Propulsion Tech
Originally, speculation and rumors on the web suggested that the Prelude may come with a manual, though the latest development from MotorTrend debunks that rumor. That’s because the new Prelude is expected to utilize the same platform as the current eleventh-generation Civic, including its gas-electric hybrid powertrain that’s currently serving duty in the latest and greatest Civic Hybrid.
That propulsion system consists of a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder with a dual electric motor hybrid setup, all to power the front wheels. That system also uses an automatic transmission, but a continuously variable transmission modified specifically for use with a gas-electric hybrid system.
According to MotorTrend when speaking with Aoyama, the Prelude will utilize simulated shift points similar to some current generation continuously variable transmissions. He also said that upshifts and downshifts will be programmed into the shifting algorithms and felt by the occupants when the car is in motion, all to simulate the feel of a stepped conventional automatic.
The Prelude Returning With A Manual Has Been A Rumor Since The Concept
Ever since Honda revealed the Prelude concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, rumors have been running rampant about the production version’s option for three pedals. However, nothing was officially confirmed and Honda in general has been and continues to be tight-lipped about any further specifics.
Despite the latest disappointing development, Honda’s reportedly working on a “simulated manual” transmission specifically with the potential of implementing it in the company’s future electric vehicles. However, it’s unknown if the tech will reach production.
It’s no mystery that Honda’s still experimenting, researching, and developing its future tech to mimic some of the conventional feelings and sensations provided by traditional internal combustion engine-powered vehicle mechanical workings. Other companies started the trend, such as Hyundai’s simulated dual-clutch automatic in the IONIQ 5 N. Some companies have and will follow suit with its electric vehicles as well.
Another neat tech Honda’s working is the ability to choose from a selection of augmented and simulated iconic Honda engine sounds through its EV’s user interface. And even for those who fear missing the manual transmission in EVs, the company’s also supposedly experimenting with simulating manual transmissions with its future EVs.
Source: MotorTrend
Read the full article here