Honda is celebrating one of its legendary models that first hit the market over 45 years ago.

On Monday, Honda revealed plans for a new hybrid-electric Prelude sports coupe, set to arrive in the U.S. by late 2025. The magazine Car and Driver anticipates that this vehicle will launch as part of the 2026 model year.

The original Honda Prelude debuted in 1978, drawing inspiration from the Honda Accord but designed to be sportier. The last iteration, the fifth-generation Prelude, was made from 1997 to 2001, according to MotorTrend.

The hybrid-electric Honda Prelude Concept was first shown at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show and made its North American debut at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, as per a release from Honda.

While details about the new Prelude are still limited, here is what we currently know.

Honda introduces new feature to enhance driving experience

The upcoming Prelude will introduce the Honda S+ Shift, designed to improve Honda’s Linear Shift Control. This feature aims to synchronize the vehicle’s speed and engine sounds, adjusting the engine RPM to enhance acceleration and deceleration, ensuring quick gear changes, according to a Honda press announcement.

So, what does this mean for drivers? They can expect a more dynamic sound experience as the car accelerates or slows down.

Although Honda’s e:HEV (high-efficiency two-motor hybrid) models do not use traditional mechanical transmissions, the new S+ Shift feature allows drivers to shift gears using paddle shifters, creating the sensation of having a transmission, according to Honda.

What will the price be for the Honda Prelude?

Honda has yet to announce the official pricing for the new hybrid model, but Car and Driver estimates that it will likely range from $31,000 to $38,000.

Prelude supports Honda’s carbon neutrality ambitions

As stated in a news release, Honda’s goal is to achieve carbon neutrality throughout all of its operations by 2050, with a target of producing only battery-electric and fuel cell vehicles by 2040.

This year, over 25% of Honda’s sales came from electric vehicles, and hybrids account for more than 50% of Accord and CR-V sales, according to the same release.

Honda launched its first hybrid model, the Insight, in December 1999, marking it as America’s first hybrid car. In the past year, Honda has also introduced the Prologue, its first all-electric SUV. Honda plans to begin production next year on its first electric vehicle built on a new EV platform at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio, as per their release.