UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, Honda has sold only 174 Prelude units during its first full month on sale in the U.S. This dismal figure, reported for December 2025, highlights a significant challenge for the automaker as it seeks to capture consumer interest.
The Prelude, priced starting at $43,195, struggles to find its place in a competitive market dominated by sporty alternatives like the Subaru BRZ and Mazda MX-5 Miata. With only 204 Preludes sold since its launch in November, the low demand raises alarms about its sustainability in the U.S. market.
In stark contrast, other sports cars continue to outperform the Prelude significantly. In December, for example, Subaru moved 229 BRZs, Toyota sold 576 GR86s, and Mazda reported 482 MX-5 Miatas sold. Even the pricier Toyota Supra, at $60,000, managed to sell 277 units, far eclipsing the Prelude’s figures.
Current listings on Autotrader reveal that there are 221 brand new Preludes available, suggesting that supply is not the problem—demand is. Some dealers are exacerbating the issue by marking up prices, with reports of Preludes being listed at over $60,000, and over 30 listings priced significantly above the MSRP, with some reaching $10,000 over.
This pricing strategy appears to alienate potential buyers. A Honda spokesperson noted that the U.S. and Canada operate under different pricing structures, influenced by tariffs and market conditions. In Canada, the Prelude costs over $5,600 less, showcasing a stark contrast that might have affected U.S. sales negatively.
Consumer feedback suggests that while the Prelude is enjoyable to drive, its high price tag limits its appeal. Many enthusiasts who appreciate its hybrid efficiency and engaging performance are deterred by the cost.
With Honda’s sales figures revealing a troubling trend, the automaker faces urgent questions about the future strategy for the Prelude. Will they adjust pricing or marketing strategies to boost sales? As the automotive landscape continues to shift, all eyes will be on Honda to see how they respond to this underwhelming launch.
The next few months will be critical for the Prelude as Honda assesses its approach in a competitive market. Analysts and consumers alike will be watching closely for any moves from the company that could impact the struggling model’s future.
