A well-known Honda tuning specialist in Japan has already begun experimenting with the newly revived Honda Prelude, signaling early aftermarket interest despite mixed reactions to the coupe’s return.
The latest generation of the Prelude marked the model’s comeback after it disappeared from Honda’s lineup in the early 2000s. While the revival stirred excitement among longtime fans, the car’s specifications have drawn criticism from some enthusiasts. The hybrid powertrain produces roughly 200 horsepower, a figure that falls short of several competitors, including the less expensive Toyota GR86. The absence of a manual transmission has also disappointed drivers who expected a more traditional sports coupe experience.
Pricing has further complicated the car’s reception in the United States. Dealer markups reportedly reaching about $10,000 have pushed the final price beyond $50,000, placing the Prelude alongside higher-performance options such as the Ford Mustang GT Premium, which produces significantly more horsepower.
Despite those concerns, Japanese tuner J’s Racing has already taken delivery of a Prelude for development work. The shop recently showcased the car at its new headquarters outside Osaka during a visit documented by automotive YouTuber Dino DC. The facility also houses several of the company’s other Honda projects, including builds based on the S2000 and the Civic Type R.
Because the sixth-generation Prelude only entered the market last year, the project remains in its early stages. The shop’s founder, Murakami-san, indicated that the car does not yet have a customer attached to it, though interest could grow if the build helps strengthen the model’s reputation among enthusiasts.
Early modifications are modest so far. The car has already received an in-house titanium exhaust system that produces a deeper exhaust tone. However, Honda has restricted the car from revving while stationary, a design choice tied to the company’s focus on maintaining a cleaner and more efficient hybrid lineup.
The Prelude shares garage space with several more aggressively modified Hondas. One Civic Type R FL5 on display is claimed to produce about 420 horsepower, roughly 100 more than its factory output. Another highlight is a tuned S660 kei sports car, whose output has been increased to around 100 horsepower, a significant boost for the compact platform.
The final direction of the Prelude project remains uncertain, but the tuner’s international presence could eventually make some of the newly developed parts available beyond Japan. Honda’s longtime performance partner Mugen has also introduced its own customized Prelude package known as the SPEC.III, featuring carbon-fiber body components and a sport exhaust system. While that kit was distributed in Japan through a lottery system, some exterior upgrades remain available to buyers elsewhere.
For now, the project represents an early attempt to reshape the conversation around Honda’s hybrid coupe and determine whether aftermarket tuning can help restore the Prelude’s enthusiast appeal.
