8 Alternatives To The 2026 Honda Prelude

The Honda Prelude is making its highly anticipated return in 2026 as a hybrid-electric sports coupe, bringing back one of Honda’s most iconic nameplates. First introduced in 1978, the Prelude has always been synonymous with sporty design and spirited driving dynamics. Now, Honda is taking the typical joy of driving that Prelude owners have always loved in a new direction, into an electrified future with its two-motor hybrid powertrain, delivering a mix of performance and efficiency.

The sixth-generation Prelude will also debut Honda’s innovative S+ Shift, a new drive mode designed to maximize driver engagement and deliver linear, responsive performance. Though exact specifications are not yet confirmed, Honda’s press release suggests the Prelude could share its powertrain with the new 2025 Civic Hybrid, which produces around 200 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. As Honda celebrates 25 years of electrification, the Prelude stands as a bridge between the brand’s heritage and its electrified future.

For those looking for similar excitement, here are eight alternatives that span hybrid, electric, plug-in hybrid, and gas-powered options. There really is something for everyone out there, without having to wait for the new Prelude to hit the streets.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources. We’ve listed two hybrid, PHEV, EVs, and ICE models each to create an interesting mix since the Prelude has put everyone on notice.

1

2025 Honda Civic Hybrid

Starting Price: $28,750

Considering the anticipated shared hybrid powertrain, the Honda Civic Hybrid is a natural alternative for those eyeing the 2026 Prelude. As mentioned above, the 2025 Civic’s hybrid powertrain delivers an estimated 200 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque, offering a solid combination of power, performance, and efficiency. Its two-motor hybrid system ensures smooth acceleration while maintaining fuel efficiency that few compact sedans can rival.

2025 Honda Civic Sedan vs. Hatchback Performance Specifications

Beyond its performance, the Civic Hybrid impresses with its engaging driving dynamics and lightweight chassis. Its sporty design echoes the Prelude’s heritage, offering sharp lines and aerodynamic styling. With Honda’s strong reputation for reliability and practicality, not to mention the storied history of the Civic line itself, the Civic Hybrid is a smart choice for drivers who value efficiency but don’t want to be driving a slouch with no passing power.

2

2025 Toyota Crown

Starting Price: $41,440

Another hybrid, the Toyota Crown offers a stylish and efficient alternative for buyers considering a sporty option like the Prelude. This elevated sedan comes with either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system or the punchier 2.4-liter Hybrid MAX setup, which produces 236 and 340 horsepower, respectively. Its performance-oriented hybrid platform ensures smooth power delivery, while the standard all-wheel drive provides traction and grip even in poor weather conditions.

Toyota Crown Performance Specifications

What sets the Crown apart is its unique design and upscale comfort. The elevated ride height delivers a commanding view of the road, combining the agility of a sedan with the taller ride height of a crossover or SUV. Inside, the cabin offers premium materials, a spacious layout, and advanced driver-assistance features, making the Crown a top-tier hybrid for drivers seeking versatility to go along with the reliability of a name like Toyota.

3

2025 BMW i4

Starting Price: $53,975

Stepping away from hybrids, next up are a pair of electric vehicles (EVs) you might want to consider instead of the new Prelude. The BMW i4 delivers the performance enthusiasts expect from BMW while embracing the benefits of an all-electric powertrain. The entry-level eDrive35 comes with a rear-wheel drive (RWD) powertrain that pumps out 282 horsepower, while the eDrive40 model steps it up to 335 horsepower with the same single-motor setup. From there, the xDrive40 uses a dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) system to deliver 396 horsepower, while the powerful M50 trim pushes out 536 horsepower to go along with instant torque for some eye-popping acceleration.

BMW i4 Performance Specifications

As a luxurious BMW, the i4 also stands out with its refined ride and handling. Adaptive suspension and precise steering provide confidence in corners, while the low center of gravity offers excellent road grip. Coupled with BMW’s luxury interior and easy-to-use controls, the i4 delivers an exciting driving experience that rivals its own gas-powered counterparts from the brand’s sporty lineup.

4

2024 Tesla Model 3

Starting Price: $42,490

The Tesla Model 3 has become a benchmark in the EV world thanks to its combination of range, performance, and affordability. Often seen as one of the original EVs, the Model 3 is always going to be an alternative option for just about any new coupe or sedan to hit the market. The Long Range RWD variant delivers up to 363 miles on a single charge, while the Performance model accelerates from 0-60 miles per hour (MPG) in just 2.9 seconds.

Tesla Model 3 Performance Specifications

Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance features, including

Full Self-Driving
, make long drives easier, while over-the-air updates continuously add new features and other upgrades from the manufacturer. The minimalist interior design emphasizes simplicity, even though many drivers don’t love it. For those looking to buy a hybrid, making the jump all the way to a new EV without sacrificing performance is easy with the Model 3, which remains one of the strongest alternatives on the market.

5

2024 Toyota Prius Prime

Starting Price: $32,975

Bridging the gap nicely between hybrids like the Prelude and all-electric options like the two models above are plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The Toyota Prius Prime is one of the most popular plug-in hybrid sedans for those looking for efficiency and the practicality of a plug-in. In addition to its impressive 48 miles per gallon (MPG) while operating as a hybrid, it offers an all-electric range of up to 44 miles, giving it a combined output of 127 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGE). On top of its efficiency, the Prius Prime still also pumps out 220 horsepower, more than enough for your daily driving needs.

Toyota Prius Prime Performance Specifications

Beyond efficiency and performance, the Prius Prime’s aerodynamic styling and futuristic look give it a modern appeal. The Prius used to get hate for its looks, but these newer models come with impressive design features that drivers love. Inside, the cabin prioritizes comfort and functionality, with generous passenger space and an intuitive infotainment system. Its plug-in hybrid versatility and Toyota’s long-standing reputation for reliability make it an excellent alternative for buyers prioritizing low ownership costs and fewer trips to the mechanic.

6

2024 Volvo S60 Recharge

Starting Price: $52,100

Next up is the Volvo S60 Recharge, which offers a solid combination of luxury, performance, and plug-in hybrid flexibility. Its turbocharged engine and electric motor combine for a robust 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, delivering impressive acceleration and smooth cruising capabilities. The S60 Recharge also boasts an all-electric range of up to 41 miles, offering emissions-free driving for short commutes while helping the sedan hit a combined 74 MPGe.

Volvo S60 Recharge Performance Specifications

Volvo’s attention to detail shines through in the S60 Recharge’s cabin, which toes the line of luxury nicely. High-quality materials like leather and real wood trim create a pleasant overall interior ambiance, while advanced safety features such as Pilot Assist (available in the Plus trim and above) add confidence on the road.

7

2025 Hyundai Elantra N

Starting Price: $33,950

Finally, we’re down to do non-hybrid regular old gas burners you might want to consider instead of the new Honda Prelude. One of the most impressive cars to hit the streets in recent years, the Hyundai Elantra N offers an exciting alternative for those who still yearn for the rawness of a gas-powered sports sedan.

Hyundai Elantra N Performance Specifications

Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, far more than you’d expect from a run-of-the-mill Elantra. The Elantra N delivers an engaging driving experience that might even outdo the Prelude, especially with its standard six-speed manual transmission that enthusiasts love.

8

2025 Subaru BRZ

Starting Price: $31,095

Rounding off our list is this popular option from Subaru, and no, it isn’t the WRX. The Subaru BRZ is a lightweight RWD sports car that puts handling and driver engagement above just about anything else. Its 2.4-liter flat-four engine produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, though the automatic is only available in the Limited trim. With a nearly 50/50 weight distribution and a low curb weight of just over 2,800 pounds in all three trims, the BRZ offers precision and agility that’s hard to match in its segment.

Subaru BRZ Performance Specifications

Inside, the BRZ’s minimalist cockpit ensures drivers stay connected to the road. Supportive bucket seats, simple controls, and excellent visibility enhance its pure sports car feel. Subaru’s focus on lightweight engineering and balance makes the BRZ an affordable choice for those who value driving enjoyment over high horsepower figures, which is very similar to what you can expect out of the new Honda Prelude around this time next year.