The new iteration of the Honda Prelude is about to hit dealerships. Since the model was announced, driving enthusiasts have been fantasizing, hoping, and demanding a manual transmission.
The configuration of the new Prelude cannot get a manual transmission
In Japan, orders are eight times higher than expected
The Prelude makes a return after 25 years
We know the car will sport a continuously variable transmission (CVT), but it will benefit from new technology: the S+ Shift function. This feature aims to simulate gear shifts, providing drivers with a genuine driving sensation.
We’ll see how it performs when we test the model.
Nevertheless, enthusiasts still dream. Unfortunately, they’ll have to abandon their vision of piloting this car on a winding road while working the pedals and shifter, as a company representative confirmed at the recent Japan Mobility Show that this is neither planned nor possible.
The reason is quite simple: such a transmission is incompatible with the model’s hybrid configuration. We understand this, but it’s somewhat ironic considering Honda previously offered a hybrid vehicle with a manual transmission, the CR-Z.
That was nearly 15 years ago, however. Essentially, the company explains that the role of the electric component in the mechanical configuration has undergone significant changes. It was supplementary assistance back then, whereas today the electric motor plays a nearly equal role with the gasoline engine, which means a manual transmission cannot be effectively integrated.
It’s why the company designed the car with the famous S+ Shift mode, knowing from the start it would never have three pedals… and that with only a CVT, its appeal would be less in the eyes of enthusiasts.
The S+ Shift technology simulates the operation of an eight-speed automatic transmission. When the function is deactivated, the steering wheel paddles, which serve to mimic gear shifts, transform to control the level of regenerative braking.
Beyond all this, the company admits it doesn’t believe customers would have highly sought the manual transmission.
It will be interesting to see the response from enthusiasts here, as well as Honda’s take, since the product’s availability is supposed to be limited. In Japan, orders are eight times higher than anticipated, which has forced the company to increase its production capacity.
We can only wait and see what happens.
One thing is sure: we’re eager to share our impressions about the new Honda Prelude.
