Two Honda Prelude builds get Civic Type R engine and manual

Key takeaways

• Two SEMA Preludes replace the hybrid with Civic Type R power and a manual
• Australian Civic Type R makes 235kW, versus 135kW for the hybrid Prelude
• Neither build confirms a production Prelude Type R or local availability

Two modified versions of the new Honda Prelude have been unveiled at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Both replace the hybrid drivetrain with the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine and six-speed manual gearbox from the Civic Type R. One comes from tuner Hasport Performance and was displayed on Honda’s own stand, and the other from Throtl and Idemitsu Lubricants.

The production Prelude is a hybrid with an e-CVT automatic transmission only. In Australia it makes 135kW and 315Nm and takes 8.2 seconds to reach 100km/h. The Australian-spec Civic Type R makes 235kW and 420Nm and does the sprint in 5.4 seconds. The Prelude already shares Civic underpinnings, with Brembo brakes and suspension derived from the Type R.

Hasport Prelude Club Racer

Honda’s Racing Corporation stand showed the Prelude Club Racer, which Hasport built for time-attack track events. It uses the Civic Type R’s K20C1 engine and manual gearbox, and its suspension tuning comes from the Integra Type S TCX race car.

Throtl and Idemitsu Prelude

Throtl’s Prelude, shown on the Idemitsu stand, runs an upgraded version of the Type R engine. Changes include a Pure Turbos turbocharger, uprated injectors and fuel pump, a larger intercooler, a stronger cooling setup and a centre-exit exhaust. It also has a custom carbon-fibre bonnet and a large rear wing.

The original hybrid battery is still in the car but disconnected, because it supports the rear-seat mounting. No final power or torque figures have been released.

Is a Prelude Type R coming to Australia?

Neither build confirms a production Prelude Type R. Honda has never built one and has not announced another powertrain or a manual gearbox for the Prelude.

Honda Australia has confirmed it is working with tuner Mugen to offer performance parts for the Prelude and other models.