UPDATE: Honda’s new Prelude is facing a dire start, with only 174 units sold in its first full month on the U.S. market. This alarming figure reflects significant challenges for the hybrid coupe, which debuted in November 2025, and raises serious questions about its viability in a competitive automotive landscape.
The Prelude, priced at $43,195, struggles to find its niche. It lacks the sporty edge of competitors like the Subaru BRZ and Mazda Miata, while also proving too impractical to rival popular compact hybrids such as the Toyota Prius and Hyundai Elantra. The market’s response to this pricing and positioning is evident, as overall sales since launch stand at just 204 units.
Currently, there are 221 brand new Preludes available on Autotrader, indicating a concerning imbalance with supply far exceeding demand. Adding to the problem, some dealerships are marking up prices exorbitantly, with reports of one Prelude listed at over $60,000. More than 30 Preludes are listed at prices ranging from $10,000 above MSRP, further dampening consumer interest.
Comparative sales figures reveal a bleak outlook for the Prelude. In December, Subaru sold 229 BRZs, Toyota moved 576 GR86s, and Mazda sold 482 MX-5 Miatas. Even the pricier Toyota Supra outperformed the Prelude with 277 units sold. These competitors have been available for longer, highlighting the uphill battle Honda faces with its new model.
Despite its potential, the Prelude’s high price tag is a significant barrier for buyers. The vehicle costs over $5,600 less in Canada, attributed to tariffs affecting U.S. pricing. A Honda spokesperson noted the difference in MSRP is based on various factors, including import costs and exchange rates, emphasizing the unique market conditions in the U.S.
As the automotive market shifts, the future of the Honda Prelude remains uncertain. Will Honda adjust its pricing strategy in response to these dismal sales figures? Will production increase to meet potential demand? The answers to these questions could determine the fate of the Prelude in the coming months.
For now, consumers and industry analysts alike will be closely monitoring the situation as Honda navigates this challenging market landscape. The implications of these sales trends could resonate beyond just the Prelude, impacting Honda’s overall brand perception and strategy in North America.
