Tatler test drive: the joy of driving the Honda Prelude

This marvel of a machine is seamlessly integrated with Honda CONNECT, a smart telematics system and mobile application that links drivers to their vehicle, enhancing the overall experience with safety, security and convenience. A first for Honda, Coasting Control forms part of the Honda SENSING suite, reducing driver workload while improving fuel efficiency in real-world conditions. With the Deceleration Selector paddle engaged, one-pedal driving becomes possible. It quickly became clear that this touring coupé is designed for those who seek both refinement and exhilaration—be it the modern bachelor or bachelorette, couples who savour date nights and unhurried time on the road or those simply looking to inject a little thrill into everyday life. 

Parked on the driveway, the Prelude waited to be driven. Its wide, trumpet stance commands attention without trying too hard. Available in Moonlit White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, Racing Blue Pearl and Rallye Red, the car comes in a considered palette that complements its contemporary character. From a distance, one can already spot its distinct blue-painted Brembo Prelude brake callipers, 19-inch Berlina Black aluminium wheels and striking hatchback. Finished with elegant typography that makes up its model badging and a rear design that’s defined by clean horizontal lines, it holds its presence whether the tail lights are illuminated or not.

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The Prelude presents itself as an invitation to the pleasures of sustainable driving, but its functional beauty carries an echo of grand tourers from the Sixties, reinterpreted for the present. Stepping inside feels effortless: its playful blue-and-white interiors are thoughtfully advanced, yet remain intuitive rather than overwhelming. The tactile feel of the buttons feel instinctive, beautifully marrying form and function. On the sleek dashboard, you’ll see the same Prelude typography badge displayed as a subtle reminder of the car’s refinement.

Oftentimes, starting a car that isn’t yours can feel intimidating. The Prelude is the opposite of that. Immediately, it transforms your experience into something comfortable, making you want to maximise its potential. Its bucket seats feel like a warm hug that assures you of a comfortable journey, be it a short ride to the office or a trip out of town; it leaves you yearning for more. The front seats are finished in perforated smooth leather, distinguished by their houndstooth pattern. The driver’s seat offers six-way manual adjustment, while the front passenger benefits from a four-way configuration. At the back, the second row is thoughtfully upholstered in black fabric and arranged in a 60:40 split-fold layout. A neatly integrated centre tray adds practical versatility, allowing the space to adapt with ease. 

As we adjusted our seats and selected our music via the nine-inch touchscreen, we were immersed in a premium sound system by Bose—its finely tuned acoustics transforming the cabin into something akin to a concert hall, rather than a car. A brief navigation through the display also reveals how it’s equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing both connectivity and ease of use.

We took the Prelude out on the road with our instructor, confident in both our driving and the car’s capabilities. From gentle acceleration to pushing closer to the floor, and switching between modes—Comfort, GT (Grand Touring), Sport and Individual—the car kept pace, adapting seamlessly to the moment. At one turn, it felt like an easy daily drive with its light manoeuvrability; at the next, the steering gained a reassuring weight, remaining composed at higher speeds—ideal for longer journeys when the thrill of driving glaringly takes centre stage.

On an empty, closed road framed by lush greenery and clear skies, a Civic RS e:HEV pulled alongside us. Through the radio, we were instructed to go head-to-head. It may be cliché, but it felt as if we were in a movie. Engaging the new S+ shift mode and taking hold of the paddle shifters, we stepped on the accelerator and experienced the full character of this hybrid sports car and its unquestionable duality.

The S+ shift uses smart technology to restore the rhythm of shifting gears. Its smooth transition from 0 to 100 was steady without jolting us back, thanks to its agile expanded handling assist. It’s an emotional hybrid—designed to make you feel connected to the machine. In that instance, we realised how this car is the perfect daily runabout, but it could also be a fun and engaging car when you open the taps and let it. With it, you get the Civic Type R's handling DNA with hybrid efficiency.

Purists may question the engineered sound that echoes a classic rev, which is the added element when the S+ shift is activated, but there is another way to see it: an invitation to embrace what driving is becoming or the future of it, perhaps. In this mode, hearing, seeing and feeling are perfectly synchronised, evoking the emotions one gets when driving a sports car. It is both spirited and efficient—a car designed to meet a range of needs, and to do so with comfort and style. 

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and so did our test drive. As we neared the entrance of Forresta Café and almost unwillingly parked the vehicle, we couldn’t help but think how amazing this would be for the Filipino car community. For Honda enthusiasts and new patrons alike, the Prelude is a promising choice: a modern classic that lets you enjoy the glide.

Experience the joy of driving and glide through roads with confidence every day. Visit your nearest Honda dealership today and test drive the Honda Prelude! Enquire at hondaphil.com.

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