AUTONEWS

Q&A: Expert discusses who's responsible when AI makes mistakes

What happens when artificial intelligence gets it wrong? From self-driving cars to medical tools, rapid advances in AI are raising new ethical and legal concerns.

University of Virginia professor David Danks is uniquely positioned to speak about what happens when AI fails. He joined the University in January with dual appointments in the Department of Philosophy and the School of Data Science. We sat down with him to discuss the recent AI boom and the ethical challenges it raises.

What are your thoughts on accountability when AI makes a high-stakes mistake? A. We're facing a competition between two futures. One is a future in which we don't solve this problem and instead just keep saying, "There always has to be a human who's accountable."

We're starting to see some signs that this might be the future we're moving to, where a radiologist, for example, has to sign off on every AI diagnosis, but they aren't given the time to actually second-guess the AI diagnosis.

They're essentially having to put their signature on diagnoses, and thereby be accountable for any errors, even though they didn't meaningfully get to contribute in any way to that diagnosis. So, we're solving the accountability problem, but only by making humans the perpetual scapegoats.

How could accountability be addressed with AI systems?

A. A different future is one where we think carefully about issues of accountability and liability and recognize that the companies and organizations creating these systems should bear some accountability when the systems fail or go awry.

We have very well-established product liability law in essentially every country in the world, and one way to do this would be through product liability law.

If a company such as OpenAI does not want to assume liability, then they can put that into their contracts, and they can negotiate who bears the liability. This is a very standard sort of contract law.

We need something more than just liability, though, because increasingly, we're seeing AI systems that act in surprising and novel ways without direct prompting by a human.

When do you think the accountability issue will come to a head?

A. I think the place we're going to see this play out first, or most likely going to play out, is in fields around home, consumer robotics, things like autonomous vehicles, software and cars.

Imagine you purchase a self-driving car. Who bears the liability when it gets into an accident when you're not in the car? Is it you, as the owner? 

Is it the company that created the self-driving car system? Or do we say, "No, you need separate self-driving insurance on top of your regular insurance so that when things go wrong, you're covered?" This is all going to have to get worked out in the next five to 10 years.

Much as we allow corporations in the United States to be legal persons, perhaps algorithms and systems need to start having some form of legal personhood, such that they can have insurance.

If they do something wrong, there's an insurance payout, or they might have property that could be seized, as compensation when the AI makes a mistake.

As these systems become more powerful, what should we do to make sure the tools are benefiting us?

A. The single biggest step that we can take collectively is actually to have an understanding of what we want these technologies to do.

The rhetoric and hype around AI emphasize the ways in which it will transform our lives, and companies are selling a very rosy picture of those transformations without people having a real understanding of the risks that are also there.

And so, we're stumbling toward a future that nobody really intended or had in mind.

Do you think deploying this technology responsibly is possible, given the race that tech companies are in right now?

A. I do believe that companies could be more responsible in how they develop and deploy these systems without bankrupting themselves. It's massively more expensive to find problems later rather than fixing them early.

Most of the responsible AI practices that people have advocated for, myself included, are ultimately about knowing why you're building whatever it is you are building.

I think a lot of the race narrative is actually self-generated by the companies, rather than reflecting actual economic pressures.

What advice do you have for individuals as we adjust to this changing technological landscape? A. Perhaps the most important thing that people can do is be educated. Too many people use technology without thinking about why. Instead, we should all strive to think about whether AI will be useful for us and only use it if it will.

Provided by University of Virginia 

MERCEDES-BENZ

Mercedes' design chief openly: "Nobody buys station wagons anymore"

Slovenian Robert Lešnik, head of exterior design at Mercedes, believes that station wagons are no longer relevant on the market, given that "nobody buys them anymore".

Slovenian Robert Lešnik, head of exterior design at Mercedes, believes that station wagons are no longer relevant on the market, given that "nobody buys them anymore".

The German automaker introduced the new electric C-Class a few days ago, and the industry and fans of the brand wondered if there would be a station wagon version. If we face the latest statements from Mercedes-Benz representatives, the answer is no.

Robert Lešnik, head of exterior design at Mercedes-Benz, claims that the popularity of station wagons has declined significantly in recent years and that the best proof is the sales figures. Obviously, because everything revolves around SUVs these days.

"We have three regions. Nobody buys them in America anymore; we tried the shooting brake version of the CLS and 'nobody' bought it. The Chinese don't understand them and don't buy them. Then we're left with Europe, and if you look at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, it's a bit expensive. So who can buy a car like that in Europe," Lešnik said in an interview with the British magazine Autocar.

Mercedes-Benz's portfolio currently includes the C-Class station wagon with internal combustion engines, and a redesign is even expected. There are also the CLA Shooting Brake and the E-Class station wagon.

Now it remains to be seen whether Mercedes will change its mind and launch a zero-emission C-Class station wagon, given that BMW is preparing the i3 Touring.

Robert Lešnik, the Slovenian Head of Exterior Design at Mercedes-Benz, has indicated that station wagons (estates) are losing their market relevance due to low demand. 

According to a report based on his conversation with Autocar (as of April 2026), Lešnik noted that while designers and journalists appreciate the long-roof bodystyle, "nobody is buying them" in significant numbers. 

Key points regarding Lešnik’s assessment(below):

Regional Decline: He indicated that the market for wagons is effectively dead in America and that Chinese consumers "don't understand them and don't buy them".

Europe's Shrinking Market: Even in Europe, which has historically been the primary market for wagons, demand has decreased, with high-end models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate becoming too expensive for a shrinking customer pool.

EV Shifts: This view supports reports that Mercedes might not offer a station wagon version of future electric vehicles (such as the C-Class EV), breaking a 30-year tradition, as the sales numbers do not support the investment. 

Autonews

RENAULT

Renault Twingo becomes the new star of Gran Turismo 7

Sony has just updated Gran Turismo 7, the game that provides the experience of driving the most exciting cars on the market. However, it's not just about exclusive models, untamed power, and breathtaking performance. There are also nostalgic touches for those who occasionally enjoy a game, even after 40.

Kazunori Yamauchi has pulled the covers off the three cars coming to Gran Turismo 7 in next week’s update, and two of them are not quite what we were expecting. The series creator took to social media to reveal the Renault Twingo, Porsche 964 Turbo S, and Yangwang U9 (yes, U9, not the Xtreme) as the trio joining the game on April 23.

The confirmation follows last week’s teaser image, which showed all three cars under dust sheets. The Twingo was the easy call. The other two had us guessing, and in both cases the answer turned out to be the more interesting option.

The Twingo that’s making its way into The Real Driving Simulator is among those very early examples, with an interior upholstery that’s best described as “silly.” “Zany,” even. Twingos aren’t foreign to motorsport, either. There have been Twingo one-make racing series, and one team even sought to campaign one in the Nürburgring 24 Hours, though recent uncool behavior from the organizers has thwarted that objective.

Beyond the little Renault is the 964 911 Turbo S Leichtbau. It’s not the only 964 in the game, but is certainly the rarest, after the 911 Carrera RS. Then there’s the quad-motor Yangwang U9 electric hypercar. This one “only” has 1,286 horsepower; the U9 Track Edition cranks up the power at each corner to 744 hp for a total of 2,977 ponies, but, strangely, that’s not the one that Polyphony has chosen to bring to GT7.

The April 1.69 patch will also bring a new Muscle Car Extra Menu and Power Pack Challenges—quests for rewards that those who purchased the Power Pack DLC from late last year will be able to take on. Expect the update to drop overnight tonight.

The one car everybody correctly identified from the teaser was the original Renault Twingo, and the confirmation simply rubber-stamps it.

58 to 75hp depending on the engine, a cult following in Japan from its original run, and a car that exists in a very different universe from the 1,270hp EV it’s sharing an update with. We’re still assuming engine swaps will appear for this one sooner rather than later…

Knowing that not all of its players are teenagers, Sony has just added the Renault Twingo to its car lineup. And we're not talking about the latest generation or the next one, which will be released this year with electric propulsion and technical components shared with the new Renault 5. We're referring to the original model, that adorable city car that emerged in the 90s and charmed everyone thanks to the surprising space it offered in the rear seats (the rear seat slid back on rails, almost reaching the trunk door) and the possibility of folding down the front seats almost completely.

Of course, when playing, you can't expect great performance, since the virtual performance is in line with the 1.2 graphics engine with which the small Diamond model arrived on the market.

But it's not all about popular models, as the franchise also includes two dream cars. The first is the Porsche 911 Turbo S Leichtbau from the 964 generation. The car was based on a 911 Turbo from the 90s, but it differed by the air intakes on the rear fenders and by an even sportier character, designed to commemorate the German brand's participation in IMSA (the American endurance racing series). Given that only 86 units were produced, it is no surprise that each one easily costs more than one million euros.

And the third addition is the Chinese U9 sports car, from the Yangwang brand (owned by BYD). This spectacular two-seater vehicle boasts four electric motors capable of delivering a combined power of 1,286 hp, allowing it to achieve stratospheric acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.36 seconds and reach almost 500 km/h (496.22 km/h). But perhaps the most surprising feature is its ability to jump (its four wheels lift off the ground) to avoid bumps, a feat achieved thanks to a suspension system that combines hydraulic and pneumatic elements.

In addition, events have been added to the Gilles Villeneuve, Yas Marina and Interlagos circuits, the ability to move the camera up and down has been improved, and a power challenge has been added, offering rewards based on the number of races completed within a specific period.

The Renault Twingo '93 is one of the main attractions of the Gran Turismo 7 update 1.69, released on April 23, 2026. The French compact, known for its peculiar design, was introduced to the game as a "used car" option, standing out as a cult favorite among enthusiasts of the series.

Here are the details of this inclusion (below):

The Car: The added version is the original 1993 model, with its 1.2-liter engine and three-door "minivan" look.

Availability: The Twingo '93 can be purchased at the GT7 Used Car dealership.

Performance and customization: With only 54hp in its original form, the car can receive modifications in "GT Auto" and, more importantly, is compatible with engine swaps, including options such as the Honda 2.4-liter K24A engine, transforming the city car into a high-performance machine.

Highlight in the update: Despite the arrival of more powerful machines like the Porsche 911 Turbo S Leichtbau '93 and the Chinese hypercar Yangwang U9 '24, the Twingo was considered by many players and the specialized media (such as GTPlanet and CarThrottle) as the true "star" of the patch due to its "underdog" nature and nostalgic appeal.

Additional Content: Update 1.69 also brought new menus to the Café (Extra Menu #53) and new events in the World Circuits.

Autonews

BMW

BMW X1 sDrive18d: Premium compact turbodiesel SUV with a range of 1,000 km to 1,200 km on a single tank

Two and a half years have passed since the third generation of the BMW X1, known internally as U11, arrived at dealerships as a great option for those seeking a premium compact SUV. At that time, we, who were present at the car's launch in Portugal, focused mainly on the electrified versions. But, even now, we cannot forget that the sDrive18d variant, diesel of course, remains a superb choice for those who devour the asphalt on long journeys.

The approach of this car, which represents the gateway to the Bavarian brand's 'X universe', avoids unnecessary extravagances and boasts a presence that, despite being the 'younger sibling', makes us think that it is anything but small. Its exterior design is withstanding the challenges of this first phase of its life, and especially those of its rivals, with great dignity. The double grilles maintain a generous size, well integrated into a very vertical front that commands respect in the rearview mirror. The headlights have a look that could be described as 'challenging', while the clean surfaces and recessed door handles improve aerodynamics and remind us that we are facing a very modern car.

The dimensions are those of a versatile vehicle: 4.5 m long, 1.84 m wide and 1.64 m high, with a well-proportioned wheelbase of almost 2.7 meters, which guarantees ample interior space. The use of clean surfaces and slightly squared wheel arches, which give it a robust stance, is still impressive, as are the three-dimensional taillights, which make it look a little wider.

Upon entering the cabin, the quality is immediately noticeable. The star of the show is the BMW Curved Display, a dual screen that seamlessly integrates the 10-inch instrument panel with the nearly 11-inch infotainment system under a single curved glass panel. The BMW Operating System 8.0 is the electronic brain of this system, reacting quickly and smoothly to ensure a tranquil driving experience. Below the central screen, a floating center console is another highlight of this generation, offering extra storage space at the bottom, which proves extremely useful. This is further enhanced by the trays in the doors that can accommodate large bottles. Even at first glance, the materials used also convey a sense of impeccable quality, with soft-touch plastics (except in the lower sections) and a level of fit and finish that promises to stand the test of time.

The spaciousness of the interior stands out as one of its strengths. In the rear, a 1.80 m tall passenger still has six fingers of width between their knees and the backrest of the front seat, and five fingers of width from their head to the roof. Four adults travel with a level of comfort typical of higher segments. Even five people can travel comfortably, as the center console isn't very high, and the seating position isn't too high, although it's true that the backrest (the armrest, when folded down) feels a bit firm. The rear seats slide on rails to better distribute space between passengers and luggage, and they also recline in different positions. This versatility is nothing new, but it allows the trunk, which is already quite spacious with 540 liters and a double floor, to be adapted to different cargo needs. Thus, the feeling in terms of space is that a family with two teenagers who travel frequently doesn't need to resort to an X3, as this X1 has more than enough space.

Under the hood, this sDrive18d version hides a two-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 150 hp. The absence of any hybrid system simplifies the mechanics compared to 48-volt options, but, on the other hand, forces the driver to forgo the benefits of the Eco label. Torque reaches 360 Nm from low revs, and the way the power is delivered, without being excessive, provides a pleasant feeling of strength. This engine is coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power exclusively to the front wheels (hence the sDrive designation, not xDrive). To make gear changes more engaging, the car has paddle shifters on the steering wheel, which are certainly useful, but inexplicably small, making them easier to use for those with slightly longer fingers.

4.6 l/100 km on the highway...The performance figures are more than adequate for the car's intended purpose. Its top speed is 210 km/h and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. However, what is truly impressive (especially now that diesel sales are in the minority) is its fuel consumption. Driving on the highway at permitted speeds, with the car fully loaded with luggage and four people, this X1 recorded only 4.6 l/100 km. This number suggests a range of almost 1,000 km and, once again, makes us reconsider the advantages of diesel.

The BMW X1 sDrive18d (diesel) boasts a remarkable range, with recent models (U11) registering around 900 km in the WLTP cycle and previous models (F48) capable of exceeding 1,200 km, thanks to low fuel consumption (approx. 4.1 L/100km in extra-urban driving). The tank capacity generally varies between 45 and 61 liters.

Highlights of range and consumption (below):

Model U11 (newest): Average consumption of 5 L/100km (approx. 20 km/l) and an estimated range of around 900 km.

Model F48 (previous): High efficiency, with extra-urban consumption of 3.7 L/100km and a total range that can exceed 1,200 km.

Fuel tank: Tank capacity varies, with models citing 61 liters or 45 liters, directly affecting maximum range.

The driving dynamics maintain the brand's DNA. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between the firmness needed to prevent body roll and the shock absorption capacity expected of a car designed to comfortably transport the whole family. The steering is direct and precise, as, at the ideal speed for an SUV (and even a little faster), it positions the front end exactly where you want it. Furthermore, the brakes offer a firm feel on the pedal, allowing you to modulate braking force with confidence. And, to top it off, the car has good sound insulation, keeping mechanical and aerodynamic noise away from the occupants' ears.

Opt for a mild hybrid...The standard equipment of this model in Spain is more than sufficient. It includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather sports steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a parking assistance system with a reversing camera. It also features adaptive cruise control and an emergency braking system, among other features. The starting price is €46,850, a value justified by the overall quality of the vehicle. However, it's not a bad idea to opt for the sDrive20d version, which costs €48,550. This is not due to the increase in power to 163 hp, but rather to the inclusion of a 48V mild hybrid system, which allows it to obtain the "Eco" label from the DGT (General Directorate of Transport).

Autonews

 

AUTONEWS

Adaptive cruise control in most cars may miss Queensland's 2-second safety gap

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) systems in many of the most popular cars in Queensland might not adhere to the State Government's safe following distance recommendations, according to new research from the University of the Sunshine Coast. ACC is a feature in modern cars that adjusts a driver's selected cruising speed to maintain a designated gap with the car ahead.

The study, led by Dr. Michelle Nicolls from the MAIC/UniSC Road Safety Research Collaboration and published in Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour, found that just 2 of the 20 car manufacturers analyzed had available settings that expressly followed Queensland guidelines.

"The Queensland Government recommends maintaining at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front," Dr. Nicolls said. "But the majority of vehicle manuals explored in our study either did not specify what gap they employed or used meters to describe gap distances, which may make it difficult for drivers to set their car to follow the guidelines.

"Drivers trusting their ACC system to maintain the correct following distance are not only risking their safety—they might be breaking Queensland law if following too closely to the vehicle in front.

"It's possible that many drivers aren't aware of the discrepancy, given the lack of clarity and specifics listed in car manuals."

It's not the only unsafe way motorists might be using the technology either. "This technology has several limitations—with many manuals recommending ACC be switched off under poor driving conditions like rain, fog and glare," Dr. Nicolls said. "And we know from previous research that more than 50% of motorists will still use ACC in poor conditions, despite manufacturer recommendations."

This technology is also limited in heavy congestion, and frequent stopping and starting traffic. "These are high-risk areas associated with rear-end crashes; however, the use of ACC may not be appropriate in these places," she said. "It's important that motorists understand the limitations of these technologies and consider whether they're using them properly.

"ACC might be convenient as a driving tool but it's not a substitute for safety. Drivers still need to exercise good judgment and caution."

Provided by University of the Sunshine Coast

GM

New Chevrolet Sonic

General Motors has prepared a new Chevrolet Sonic for the South American market, with which it will compete with models such as the Volkswagen Nivus, Fiat Pulse and Renault Kardian.

Measuring 423 cm long, 177 cm wide and 153 cm high, the Sonic tries to balance sporty proportions with good use of interior space. There are no pictures of the interior yet, but it is said that the Sonic will raise the bar compared to the Onix. The most important feature is the Virtual Cockpit system, which integrates a digital instrument cluster and multimedia system into a single unit.

GM chose Brazil for the world premiere of the Chevrolet Sonic, reinforcing the model's relevance as the brand's main launch in South America this year.

The project introduces a new SUV coupe concept to the compact car segment, incorporating sophisticated vehicle dynamics, a strong visual presence, and a level of detail previously seen only in higher-category vehicles.

Sales begin in May, supported by a communication strategy that reinforces the product's positioning and highlights its main attribute: its striking design. The car's first film features the tagline "It won't leave your head," with the hit song "Can't Get Out of My Mind" as its soundtrack.

The Sonic was developed entirely in a virtual environment. It originates from a process driven by artificial intelligence that optimizes the collaborative work of engineers and designers from the initial stages, refining body proportions and surfaces in an integrated way. This method allows structural and aesthetic decisions to evolve with greater precision.

Drawing inspiration from models like the Chevrolet Equinox EV, the project proposes a contemporary design, aligned with an increasingly technology-driven urban environment and, at the same time, with the expectations of consumers seeking differentiation to express their personality.

At the front, the Sonic adopts the latest design language of Chevrolet's global SUVs. The higher front end establishes a solid base for the overall design, while the creases on the hood direct the eye towards the center of the vehicle and enhance the perception of width.

The elements are arranged horizontally, with the grille divided into two well-defined levels: the lower portion concentrates the greater visual volume, and the upper portion connects to the LED daytime running lights. This luminous signature reinforces the model's identity and incorporates multiple functions (DRL and turn signal) in a single element, allowing the rest of the front to be resolved with greater precision and less aesthetic interference.

The main headlight uses a projector for high and low beams, a feature that guarantees almost 20% greater illumination power than conventional systems and, at the same time, allows for a discreet opening at the bottom to aid in brake cooling and contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. Another bold solution is the auxiliary fog lights, treated in a minimalist way in the spoiler area, so as not to compete with the other elements.

Also noteworthy is the multi-piece bumper, with different surfaces and color combinations, such as high-gloss black, matte black, and the body color in the top-of-the-line RS version. Crowning the ensemble, the Sonic debuts Chevrolet's updated bowtie, more horizontal and with a black application. The illuminated option is one of more than 70 accessories designed for the car.

It is in the side view that the SUV coupe concept is fully revealed. The arched silhouette leads the design to the rear with a more pronounced slope than in traditional SUVs, while the elongated rear portion of the body differentiates it from adventure hatchbacks. In the Sonic, the roof rack has a load capacity of up to 50 kg.

The moldings that surround the entire base of the vehicle, including the fenders, reinforce its robustness, protecting the most exposed areas, and also help to convey the impression that the car exceeds almost 20 cm of ground clearance. The 17-inch wheels have an exclusive design for each version of the product and can receive red accents inspired by Chevrolet's Redline editions.

At the rear, the Sonic intensifies the perception of width through a transverse organization of the elements. The LED taillights, with a three-dimensional construction, extend slightly beyond the body plane and form a segmented bar, creating a technically-oriented light signature.

The more inclined rear window does not compromise visibility, while the extension of the tailgate optimizes the trunk capacity. Wide and clean surfaces predominate, supported by choices such as the positioning of the license plate in the lower region of the bumper and the concealment of the luggage compartment opening mechanism or the exhaust outlet. All of this avoids visual interruptions and allows for a precise reading of the proportions. Meanwhile, the aerodynamic package helps control airflow in the area, balancing efficiency and acoustic comfort.

The cabin features a unique volume, designed for optimal balance in space between front and rear passengers, from head to toe. The horizontal lines of the dashboard visually widen the interior, which is characterized by a high-tech atmosphere. The highlight here is Chevrolet's Virtual Cockpit System, which combines a digital instrument panel with advanced multimedia connectivity.

Areas of the dashboard, steering wheel, seats, and central and side armrests feature soft-touch coverings with exclusive finishes and a level of sophistication similar to that of the brand's larger utility vehicles.

One example is the premium seat covers with an extra layer of foam, inherited from the Tracker. This solution helps to better mold to the body, enhancing the feeling of comfort, especially on long journeys.

The multifunction steering wheel displays the updated Chevrolet logo in the center and features Black Piano inserts to surround the shortcut controls for the audio system and Chevrolet Intelligent Driving. All of this provides a connection between technology and the tactile experience of the driver. The higher driving position completes this package, offering excellent visibility and the control associated with SUVs.

Regardless of the trim level, the vehicle name emblems and the "Turbo" engine badge are black.

According to the report, the Sonic is not intended to be just another compact SUV on the market. With a more emotional appeal, the model represents a significant shift in General Motors' strategy in Brazil.

A key new feature will be the debut of a new intelligent driving system, with sophisticated advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Although Chevrolet has not yet released official details, it is expected that the Sonic will use the 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine from the Chevrolet Onix, which has 116 hp.

Official sales of the Sonic will start in May.

by Autonews

HONDA 

Consumer Reports: 2026 Honda Prelude

The Honda Prelude is back for 2026, taking some of the best parts of the Civic lineup--specifically, the Civic Hybrid's drivetrain and the Civic Type R's confident-handling suspension design--and combining them in a sport compact coupe. While most of its 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid drivetrain is shared with the Civic Hybrid, the Prelude adds paddle shifters that allow the driver to row through simulated gear shifts. Like its predecessors from decades ago, the Prelude has a 2+2 interior layout, and we expect the back seat to be better used for cargo or small children accordingly. Inside, you'll find aggressively bolstered front bucket seats, Google built-in services including a voice assistant and Google Maps, and thankfully, an array of straightforward physical controls. We like that key active safety features, including blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning, are standard.

The new generation measures 4.67 meters in length, 1.80 meters in width, 1.43 meters in height, and has a wheelbase of 2.73 meters. Compared to the Civic hybrid sedan, the coupe is longer and lower, but maintains similar proportions in the wheelbase. The trunk capacity is smaller: 264 liters in the Prelude, compared to 495 liters in the sedan, a difference expected due to its more sporty design.

Compared to the eleventh-generation Civic Type R, which measures 4,598 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and has a wheelbase of 2,735 mm, the Prelude is longer, but 88 mm narrower. The trunk is also smaller: the Type R offers 337 liters, or 73 liters more than the new Prelude.

When the Consumer Reports test staff got together to discuss our thoughts on the new 2026 Honda Prelude, there was one thing we couldn’t stop talking about: what other cars we’d buy instead. Our verdict was universal, with agreement that it’s fine enough as a shorter-wheelbase coupe version of the Civic Hybrid, but it should be priced as such. Honda markets the Prelude as a sporty, upmarket compact coupe, yet this version isn’t fun enough or highly optioned enough to justify its high $43,195 starting price (including its $1,195 destination fee). 

Pricing aside, the new Prelude is a generally pleasant car, with sporty styling, nimble handling, easy-to-use controls, and excellent fuel economy. Like its prior iterations, it takes advantage of the wider Honda parts bin to create a unique two-door model. The 2026 model borrows heavily from the current Civic lineup, pairing the Civic Hybrid’s powertrain with chassis components from the high-performance Civic Type R. 

All Preludes come with a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a dual-motor hybrid system, good for a combined 200 hp and 232 lb.-ft. of torque. The Prelude doesn’t have a traditional transmission, instead using one of its electric motors to drive the front wheels while the second motor charges the hybrid battery. In certain situations, the engine can also connect directly to the front wheels.

The Prelude features several higher-end touches, including adaptive dampers, a Bose premium audio system, and leather-trimmed heated front sport seats. The infotainment system includes many popular Google services built-in, including Google Maps, a voice assistant, and downloadable apps through the Google Play store. Honda markets two trims for the Prelude: a base Hybrid and a slightly more expensive Hybrid Two-Tone, which is primarily an appearance package with Winter Frost Pearl white paint, a white and blue leather interior, a black roof, and black mirror caps. Everything else is identical. 

Consumer Reports recently purchased its own 2026 Honda Prelude. It only has one added-cost option: $655 for the Two-Tone trim’s Winter Frost Pearl paint. 

If you’re a Consumer Reports member, our initial expert assessment of the Honda Prelude is available to you below. We completed the 2,000 break-in miles, and are now putting the Prelude we purchased through more than 50 tests at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. Consumer Reports members will have access to the full road-test results as soon as they’re available.

If you haven’t signed up to be a member yet, click below and become a member to access this full article and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. 

The 2026 Honda Prelude marks the triumphant return of one of the brand's most iconic coupes, now reinvented as a hybrid model focused on efficiency and style.

Model Highlights (below):

Engine: Uses the e:HEV 2.0 hybrid system, the same as the Civic Hybrid, delivering approximately 203 hp of power and 32.1 kgfm of torque.

Performance: Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in about 6 to 7 seconds. The drive is exclusively front-wheel drive (FWD).

Technology and Interior: Features a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch multimedia system with native Google, and a Bose sound system. The interior finish features soft-touch materials and leather or suede seats.

Dynamics: Despite being focused on efficiency, it inherits performance components such as the front suspension and Brembo brakes from the Civic Type R. It also features the S+ Shift system, which simulates gear changes and engine sound for a sportier experience.

Autonews