Prelude's Sharp Handling Can't Make Up for Slow 0-60 Against Civic Hybrid

Car and Driver tests of the 2026 Honda Prelude show a 0–60 of 6.5 seconds and a 15.3-second quarter mile at 90 mph, slightly slower than the Civic Hybrid’s 0–60 in 6.2 seconds and 14.9 seconds. Despite similar powertrains (200 hp, 232 lb-ft) and a lighter Civic, the Prelude’s S+ Shift adds pauses that push 0–60 to 7.3 seconds unless turned off. The Prelude excels in handling (0.97 g) and braking (152 ft) compared with the Civic Si, but there’s no Prelude Si or Type R planned. Overall, it prioritizes chassis feel and driving engagement over straight-line speed.