2026 Honda Prelude Type R should absolutely happen

The mid-2026 release of the reborn Honda Prelude will be one of the most eagerly anticipated launches of the year, but how much more exciting would it be if there was a hot Type R version? Well just such a thing has been imagined and we’re entirely in favour of it.

Ask an enthusiast what the ultimate hot hatch is and there’s a reasonable chance they’ll say the Honda Civic Type R; the fastest front-drive car to lap the Nürburgring and one of the most complete performance cars on the market.

The confirmation of the new Prelude being a naturally-aspirated four-cylinder hybrid certainly raised a few eyebrows last year, especially when the presence of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) was confirmed.

For reference, none of its future competitors – Subaru BRZ, Toyota GR86, Hyundai i20 N – are offered with a CVT.

The powertrain outputs a rather middling 149kW/315Nm in North American guise, which is undoubtedly less than most fans and prospective customers would’ve been hoping for.

But given the new Prelude pinches suspension componentry and know-how from the endlessly talented Civic Type R, there’s little doubt the all-new coupe is capable of so much more, and there’s obviously an appetite for it.

Digital creator X-Tomi Design has mocked up their impression of what a 235kW/420Nm, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol Prelude Type R would look like using the Civic’s signature cues: enlarged front apron, wider tracks, lightweight wheels, lowered suspension, big brakes, fixed aero and a track-ready interior.

As stunning, mouth-watering and realistic as this render looks, there have been no indications from Honda – a typically conservative brand – that a hot Prelude is in the works.

Indeed, the brand has previously outlined how the new coupe is aimed at more mature and female audiences compared to the previous versions; those chasing a refined and elegant warm coupe as opposed to an out-and-out performance car – those buyers will be pointed toward the Civic Type R.

Still, it wouldn’t/shouldn’t be all that hard for Honda to rustle up a hot Prelude given the platform commonalities: transplant the Type R’s engine, running gear, brakes, front differential and seats into the coupe body, retune the suspension and slap some aero on. Job done.

Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au