Honda Prelude campaign highlights facial analysis tech

Honda introduces the 2026 Prelude campaign featuring facial expression analysis and the new S+ Shift mode, as reported in the official Honda announcement.

Honda has launched its wide-reaching “Engineered for Fun” campaign to introduce the new 2026 Prelude hybrid-electric sports coupe. The spot made its debut during the NBA matchup between the Phoenix Suns and the Portland Trail Blazers, underscoring the car’s focus on excitement and driver engagement.

At the center of the campaign is an unusual technological element: a facial expression analysis system that captures real-time emotional reactions from drivers testing the Prelude at the Honda Proving Center in the Mojave Desert. The system measures joy, excitement, and peaks of exhilaration, offering a vivid look at how the car resonates with enthusiasts.

The introduction of the S+ Shift mode is one of the campaign’s key highlights. This new drive mode simulates gear changes to create a more immersive driving experience and is paired with Honda’s two-motor hybrid system. European-market data confirms an output of 135 kW (184 hp), 315 Nm of torque, and an average fuel consumption of about 5.2 l/100 km. Combined with chassis components derived from the Civic Type R, the Prelude aims to blend everyday refinement with a sporty character.

The model reflects Honda’s broader hybrid strategy, expanding the lineup to include the CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, Civic Hybrid, and now the Prelude. Market timelines are already emerging: late 2025 for the U.S. and early 2026 for Europe. In Germany, the starting price is listed at around €49,500, positioning the Prelude as a compelling option for drivers seeking both efficiency and performance.

The “Engineered for Fun” campaign spans broadcast television, streaming platforms, and social media, with high-visibility placements during major sports programming such as the NFL, NCAA, NBA, and NHL. This aligns with the model’s intended audience—drivers who view performance and excitement as essential parts of their lifestyle.

Early media impressions reinforce this direction. Reviewers highlight the responsiveness of the S+ Shift mode, the balanced dynamics, and the absence of a manual transmission—a detail already generating discussion among enthusiasts. Still, with hybrid demand rising steadily, the Prelude appears positioned to fill a meaningful role in Honda’s lineup by combining modern technology with a revived sporting identity.