NewzFun-to-drive coupes have been on the wane in the past few decades, which makes it worth paying attention when a new one shows up. The Honda Prelude returns after a 26-year hiatus for 2026, and it’s got some interesting elements to it. It comes standard with a frugal hybrid powertrain — which you wouldn’t necessarily associate with a performance coupe — combined with a specialized suspension and braking system to enhance the car’s handling and stopping.
The new Prelude faces off against a small collection of two-door rivals that includes the Toyota GR86, a car that follows the classic formula of rear-wheel drive, an available manual transmission and a low price tag. Which of these two-doors is the better buy? Edmunds’ auto experts tested both to find out.
Driving experience This is where the GR86 makes its strongest case. At Edmunds’ test track, a manual transmission-equipped GR86 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds. This isn’t outrageously quick, but the GR86’s 228-horsepower four-cylinder engine has enough power to have some fun on highway entrance ramps or when powering out of corners.
Toyota also offers an automatic transmission; that slows the car’s acceleration by about a second. The Prelude’s 200-horsepower four-cylinder hybrid powertrain simply doesn’t hit as hard as the GR86’s. Edmunds’ test Prelude needed 7.2 seconds to get to 60 mph.
Honda’s hybrid system doesn’t have a transmission or gears in the traditional sense. It’s smooth and great for congested traffic, but you don’t get the same level of engagement that you do from revving out the GR86’s engine. The GR86 also draws praise for excellent steering feel and balance that Edmunds identifies as its best traits.
It’s undeniably front-wheel-drive in character, which some drivers prefer less than the GR86’s classic rear-wheel-drive merits. But the Prelude is an excellent front-driver with class-leading handling grip. It’s a close call, but the GR86’s extra character gives it the win here.
Summary from source