How Can Japanese Buyers Personalize the New Honda Prelude?
The Honda Prelude’s comeback has sparked plenty of conversation, and for good reason. While the hybrid coupe already arrives with a sporty edge—think sleek lines, black 19-inch alloys, and a silhouette inspired by glider aerodynamics—Honda knows that car enthusiasts rarely leave well enough alone. That’s why, right out of the gate, both Honda’s in-house accessories division and the legendary tuner Mugen have rolled out a buffet of upgrades. Whether you’re after subtle tweaks or a full-on transformation, the options are anything but boring.
What Does the Mugen Package Offer for the Prelude?
If you’re the type who wants your Prelude to stand out in a crowd (or maybe just at the next Cars & Coffee), Mugen’s catalog is where things get interesting. The package kicks off with a two-piece front splitter and aerodynamic fins for the side skirts, giving the coupe a lower, more aggressive stance. Mirror covers get a redesign, and the rear bumper extension comes with an integrated diffuser—details that aren’t just for show. There’s also a three-piece rear spoiler that’s pure eye candy.
But Mugen isn’t just about looks. Those 19-inch forged BBS wheels aren’t just lighter by 4 kg (8.8 lbs) per corner—they also sharpen handling by reducing unsprung weight. The sports exhaust system is tuned for a throatier note, making every drive a little more dramatic. For drivers who crave sharper response, Mugen’s Type S brake pads and performance dampers are available. And for the finishing touches? Decals, Mugen emblems, and interior upgrades like branded floor mats and scuff plates.
Pricing is still under wraps for the full carbon kit and exhaust, but other goodies are already available in Japan. For reference, the BBS wheels are set at ¥176,000 (about $1,200), performance dampers at ¥143,000 ($960), and brake pads at ¥52,800 ($360). Even the mirrors get the premium treatment, with an optional hydrophobic film for an extra ¥55,000 ($370). It’s not cheap, but for those who want the best, it rarely is.
How Do Honda’s Genuine Accessories Compare?
Not everyone wants their Prelude to shout. For those who prefer a more understated approach, Honda’s Genuine Accessories catalog offers a different flavor of customization. The “Sports Style” package includes aerodynamic bumper extensions, grille accents in white or red, a black rear spoiler, and matching mirrors. The dark emblems and a unique set of 19-inch alloys with a five double-spoke design add a subtle but distinct edge.
Honda’s pricing is refreshingly transparent: ¥55,000 ($370) for the splitter, ¥33,000–36,300 ($220–240) for grille moldings, ¥71,500 ($480) for the rear wing, and ¥215,600 ($1,500) for the alloy wheels. There aren’t side skirts, but mud guards at ¥36,300 ($240) fill that gap. For those who love a little extra flair, dark emblems and black mirrors are available for ¥17,600 ($120) and ¥15,400 ($100), respectively.
Inside, Honda hasn’t skimped on options. Floor mats with Prelude lettering run ¥79,200 ($530), and a waterproof luggage tray is ¥14,300 ($100). Want to add some ambiance? Extra LEDs can light up cupholders, footrests, the tailgate, and scuff plates, plus Prelude puddle lights for a bit of drama when you open the door at night.
Are There Any Performance Upgrades Available?
Here’s where things get a bit more nuanced. As of now, neither Honda nor Mugen offers performance tuning for the Prelude’s hybrid powertrain. The coupe’s 2.0-liter gasoline engine, paired with two electric motors, delivers a combined 200 hp (149 kW / 203 PS). That’s plenty for daily driving and spirited weekend runs, but don’t expect a jump in horsepower from bolt-on kits just yet.
Chassis-wise, the Prelude borrows some serious hardware from the Civic Type R—Brembo front brakes, wide tracks, adaptive dampers, and a dual-axis front suspension system. However, the tuning is a bit softer, prioritizing comfort over the razor-sharp feel of the Type R hot hatch. Still, the bones are there for future upgrades, and it’s a safe bet that local tuners will start pushing the envelope soon, especially with the Tokyo Auto Salon on the horizon.
What’s the Real-World Impact of These Customization Options?
Personalization isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making the car feel like yours. For some, that means a full Mugen makeover, with every carbon fiber accent and forged wheel in the catalog. For others, it’s a matter of adding a few tasteful touches from Honda’s own lineup. Either way, these options let buyers tailor the Prelude to their own tastes, lifestyles, and budgets.
It’s also worth noting that Japan’s car culture thrives on individuality. According to a 2023 survey by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, over 60% of new car buyers in Japan opt for at least one factory or dealer-installed accessory. That’s a huge market, and Honda’s quick rollout of both Mugen and Genuine Accessories shows they’re paying attention.
What Should Buyers Expect Next?
With the Prelude’s relaunch, the stage is set for a wave of creativity from Japan’s tuning scene. Expect to see wild builds and clever tweaks at upcoming shows. And as hybrid and electric powertrains become more common, the aftermarket will likely find new ways to squeeze out performance and personality.
The big takeaway? Customizing your Prelude isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.