The automotive industry is steadily transitioning towards electric vehicles (EVs). While many manufacturers have already launched their EV models, some are still preparing their initial offerings. Honda, having discontinued the Clarity a few years ago, is now poised to introduce its latest generation EV: the 2024 Honda Prologue SUV. This article provides a comprehensive overview of everything we know so far about this exciting new all-electric SUV.
alt text: 2024 Honda Prologue driving on a scenic road.
The Prologue takes a different design approach compared to the Clarity, adopting a more conventional aesthetic. Unlike some manufacturers who have used the rise of EVs as an opportunity for radical design overhauls, Honda has chosen a more refined and practical approach.
Design and Exterior
The Honda Prologue’s design is practical rather than revolutionary. While not unattractive, it avoids the futuristic spaceship look some EV buyers seek.
alt text: Front view of the 2024 Honda Prologue showcasing its headlights and grille.
The front features a standard SUV design with slim headlights and a lower grille. The rear sports a slightly more dynamic appearance with sleek taillights connected by a prominent Honda logo.
Despite being marketed as an SUV, the Prologue’s size and proportions are more akin to crossovers like the Kia EV6 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its relatively large wheels contribute to a sporty and agile impression.
Interior Features and Technology
The Prologue’s interior offers a comfortable and user-friendly experience. Notably, it retains a good balance of physical buttons and controls, unlike many modern vehicles that rely heavily on touchscreens.
alt text: Interior view of the 2024 Honda Prologue highlighting the dashboard, infotainment screen, and steering wheel.
A central 11.3-inch display houses Honda’s infotainment system, and thankfully, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported for those who prefer alternative interfaces. Even the base model includes heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and wireless charging. The Prologue offers two rows of seating for five passengers and 25.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row.
Performance and Powertrain
The Honda Prologue will be available in three trims: EX, Touring, and Elite. The EX and Touring trims offer both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, while the Elite comes exclusively with AWD. All AWD configurations feature dual motors.
Built on GM’s Ultium platform, the Prologue is expected to share similar performance characteristics with the Chevrolet Equinox EV. While official figures are yet to be confirmed, estimates suggest around 210 horsepower for FWD models and close to 300 horsepower for AWD variants.
Range, Charging, and Battery
The EPA estimates the Honda Prologue’s maximum range at 296 miles, a competitive figure for its price point. While slightly less than the Chevrolet Blazer EV’s 324-mile estimate, it remains impressive.
alt text: Rear three-quarter view of the 2024 Honda Prologue parked on a street.
This maximum range applies to the single-motor, FWD EX model. Opting for the dual-motor configuration reduces the range to 281 miles for both EX and Touring trims. The top-tier Elite trim, with standard dual motors, has a further reduced range of 273 miles. With a maximum charging speed of 155kW, the Prologue can gain approximately 65 miles of range in 10 minutes using a DC fast charger. This charging speed is somewhat slower compared to competitors like the Kia EV6, which offers 350kW charging.
Pricing and Availability
The Honda Prologue offers a relatively affordable entry point into the EV SUV market. The single-motor EX model starts at $48,795, while the dual-motor version is priced at $51,795. The Touring trim begins at $53,095 for the single-motor and $56,095 for the dual-motor option. Finally, the Elite trim, with standard dual motors, starts at $59,295. Honda anticipates the Prologue’s availability starting in March 2024.
