The last model year of the Honda Prelude was 2001.
Overview and context
The Honda Prelude was a two-door sporty coupe introduced in 1978 to complement Honda's lineup and appeal to enthusiasts. Across five generations, it blended performance-focused features with Honda reliability. Production effectively concluded after the 2001 model year, marking the end of a 23-year run for the model.
Timeline by generation
To illustrate the model's lifespan, here's a generation-by-generation rundown of the Prelude's production years. Note that year designations can vary by market, but the ranges below reflect common model-year periods.
- First generation: 1978–1982
- Second generation: 1983–1987
- Third generation: 1988–1991
- Fourth generation: 1992–1996
- Fifth generation: 1997–2001
These ranges align with model-year definitions used by Honda in most markets. The key takeaway is that production ended after the 2001 model year.
Why the Prelude ended and what followed
Industry trends, shifts in consumer taste, and Honda's product strategy contributed to the decision to retire the Prelude. The company redirected resources toward more popular segments like crossovers and larger sedans. There was no direct successor in the Prelude line; instead, Honda and its Acura division leaned on other models to fill the sporty, front-wheel-drive niche.
Summary
The Honda Prelude's final year was 2001, ending a 23-year production run across five generations. It remains a touchstone for enthusiasts and a notable chapter in Honda's history of sporty, compact coupes.