Building off its performance last year, which landed Honda Malaysia its 12th consecutive title of the best-selling non-national passenger car brand, the Japanese carmaker will be keeping up its momentum in 2026 with plans to launch six new models, targeting an overall sales volume of 60,000 units this year.
While no specific models were mentioned, the heavy mention of the marque’s e:HEV technology, “fun to drive” characteristics, and the S+ Shift system in the presentation strongly hints at the Prelude being included as one of the six new Honda models set for 2026.
Unveiled in Japan just last year, the all-new Honda Prelude reimagines the cult favourite into a hybrid-powered coupe, featuring the same e:HEV powertrain as the Civic e:HEV. The system combines a 1.5-litre mill together with an electric drive unit (combining the generator motor and traction motor) to send 184 hp and 315 Nm to the front wheels. And on the Honda Prelude, that translates to a century sprint in 7.9 seconds, onward to a top speed of 180 km/h.
The system functions primarily as a series hybrid, with the engine working most of the time to charge the batteries, which then powers the motor that drives the wheels. During high-speed cruising, though, a lock-up clutch engages to connect the engine directly to the wheels for improved efficiency.
What makes the Prelude unique in Honda’s lineup, though, is the addition of the S+ Shift system. The unique software feature simulates the sensations of a traditional gearbox by artificially limiting torque outputs in the various “gears”, giving drivers a more engaging feel while driving.
The system works together with the Active Sound Control system, which pipes electronically-generated “engine” noise into the cabin to further amp up the drama. The system is so successful in creating a sporty driving experience that Honda is also thinking of bringing it to the standard Civic in a new RS variant, as shown by the concept during Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 earlier this year.
If that does make it to production, we think that could likely be one of the new models to debut in Malaysia this year too.
READ MORE: The Honda Civic e:HEV is about to get more exciting thanks to the Prelude’s S+ Shift system
As Honda Malaysia hinted during last year’s business briefing, one of the six models to be launched here this year will most likely be an electric vehicle (EV) too, in line with its plans to launch three EVs by 2027.
The most likely candidate for that is the Honda Super-One, which recently made its international market debut in Singapore. Taking on the form of a souped up enthusiast-focused Kei car, the Honda Super-One utilises a small electric motor on its front axles to send 95 hp and 162 Nm to the wheels.
Those figures might not sound like a lot, but in a package smaller than the Perodua Axia? That just sounds like a boatload of fun to me – or at least, my kind of fun, since I drive a Suzuki Swift Sport after all. And those tri-coloured seats on the interior? Sign me up.
Beyond these, though, the rest of the new models are truly anyone’s guess – it’s not a common occurrence for Honda Malaysia to launching six whole new models in a single year. Could it be the Stepwgn? Or the return of the Honda Accord? The Honda WR-V is also due for a facelift refresh… Leave your best guesses in the comments.
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