Initial impression: The 2024 Honda Prologue EV marks a significant leap forward
Honda is introducing the Prologue, its initial entry into the mass-market electric vehicle segment. Thankfully, its debut is far more logical now than it would have seemed just a short while back.
Last month marked a significant development as the corporation unveiled a pair of eye-catching Honda electric vehicle prototypes, previewing the upcoming Zero Series set for a 2026 release. These models appear to be designed from the ground up, ignoring traditional design norms. The concepts steer clear of nostalgic elements and classic styling, signaling a bold departure for Honda’s design language, with a particular focus on appealing to consumers in the American market.
In comparison, the Prologue seems more traditional, and it doesn’t have the appearance or vibe of a typical Honda—whether it’s the modern, widely-known models like the Accord or CR-V, or one that follows the futuristic design and unique control features seen in the previous Clarity Electric or the Honda E that’s aimed at the European market.
Viewed through this perspective, the Prologue’s role is crystal clear. It’s not designed to captivate electric vehicle enthusiasts with a more futuristic look than the Hyundai Ioniq 5, or to outperform the Kia EV6 GT in terms of speed and power, nor is it set to undercut the VW ID.4 on price. It’s not the electric vehicle intended to lure customers away from these competing brands. Its purpose is to retain the allegiance of existing Honda customers, preventing them from switching to rival brands and to gently introduce them to electric vehicles in preparation for the more impressive models that are set to follow.
Dealers are also getting a gentle introduction with the Prologue, as it doesn’t completely revolutionize the car for the electric vehicle age just yet.
Upcoming 2024 Honda Pro
The Prologue both embodies and deviates from Honda’s typical design ethos. In automotive lingo, it’s considered a „top hat,“ meaning it’s a design layer applied to a foundational structure with specific engineering parameters laid out by GM. This model is essentially shaped over GM’s Ultium battery and powertrain system, and its basic structural design shares similarities with the Chevy Blazer EV.
During a day’s journey encompassing the Prologue, which included traversing the expansive freeways of Northern California, the scenic routes through vineyard-rich regions, and the serpentine rural lanes, my experience revealed that the Prologue consistently performs without significant errors. Moreover, its operation, whether in motion or at rest, feels familiar and would not be out of place or confusing to a variety of individuals, be it your mother, a colleague, or the neighbor considering electric vehicles for the first time.
2024 Model of the Honda Pro
If you haven’t been keeping up with every update on the Cybertruck and are curious about Juniper’s release, the Prologue might strike the perfect balance of being refreshingly unique. It features traditional door handles and emits a solid sound when the doors shut. It’s equipped with a push-button ignition and a gear shift located on the steering column. The vehicle includes tactile climate controls, adjustable air vents, and basic interfaces that become intuitive in no time. I was able to configure the seats and mirrors and connect my iPhone to use the wireless CarPlay feature in under sixty seconds.
Introduction to the Prologue’s capabilities
Models of the Prologue with a single motor feature a front-mounted permanent-magnet motor, producing 232 horsepower and 238 pound-feet of torque. The dual-motor Prologue variants generate the same 288 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque as some Chevrolet Blazer EV models that have an induction motor at the back. However, Honda indicates that its model utilizes a permanent magnet motor in the rear for the Prologue, which may enhance the efficiency of the regenerative braking system (the driver’s display indicated peak regenerative power close to 170 kW on multiple occasions).
Every Prologue model is equipped with a battery pack that has a gross capacity of 85 kilowatt-hours. The Environmental Protection Agency has assessed the driving range, concluding that the single-motor, front-wheel-drive models can travel up to 296 miles, while the majority of the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive models achieve a slightly lower range of 281 miles. However, the premium Elite AWD models, such as the one I had the opportunity to test drive, have the shortest estimated range of 273 miles. This is primarily attributed to the presence of bigger, 21-inch wheels on these variants
The Prologue model from Honda set
During a total travel time of approximately three hours, which spanned a distance of roughly 120 miles through various elevation changes and focusing on the Prologue’s power capabilities for a portion of the trip, we achieved an average of 2.9 miles per kilowatt-hour. This indicates that the vehicle could easily exceed a 200-mile range even under those conditions. The weather was clear with temperatures in the 60s.
The introduction section, which is common for many electric vehicles, indicates that these automobiles are not exactly featherweights. The heaviest Elite AWD model that I had the opportunity to test drive tips the scales at 5,273 pounds. The Prologue’s steering is geared for a broader turn radius and offers a solid yet responsive handling experience. This makes it particularly suited for highway driving, where the most sudden moves involve changing lanes. However, the vehicle seems less at home on the narrow, bumpy roads often found in rural areas. Here, the Prologue appeared somewhat overwhelmed as it struggled to maintain its composure under the weight, despite the smooth steering efforts. This is likely compounded by the uneven weight distribution, which leans more towards the front with a 54/46 split between the front and back for the AWD model – the most balanced in the product line. The lack of adequate side support in the front seats also doesn’t contribute positively, as it fails to securely hold passengers when the car is in motion.
2024 Model of the Honda Pro
Upcoming 2024 Honda Pro
2024 Honda Prologue Model
Ample room in the cabin, but watch out for the head space…
In my initial overview of the 2024 Honda Prologue, I noted the generous legroom available in both the front and back, the wide door openings, and the ideal seat height that facilitates getting in and out. However, what’s lacking in this spacious feel is the head space in the rear, particularly on the sides, where the large sunroof’s frame is obstructive. This feature isn’t included in the standard EX models, so consider those if you’ll be accommodating taller passengers in the rear.
The storage area is impressively spacious, offering 25.2 cubic feet of room when the second-row seats are upright, and includes an additional lower compartment of 5.0 cubic feet. The lifting threshold is conveniently low, and you can easily fold down and return the back seats with just one hand.
Unveiling of the 202
When observing from a distance, the vehicle’s design appears flawless without any ungainly viewpoints. From a side perspective, the proportions are aesthetically balanced, while the rear view offers a unique visual signature. The front of the Prologue presents a graceful outline reminiscent of a sedan, and incorporates safety sensors within a seamlessly integrated panel in lieu of a traditional grille.
The Prologue vehicle features a single-pedal function similar to that seen in the Blazer EV. It offers three settings for regenerative braking: a deactivated setting for minimal slowing, a standard setting for a medium level of energy recuperation, and a high setting that significantly reduces speed and acts nearly as a single-pedal system. However, drivers will still need to fine-tune the stopping distance manually. A paddle located behind the steering wheel allows the driver to switch between these settings, and there’s a feature to prevent the car from rolling when the brake is released. The highest trim, named Elite, includes a special Sport mode which alters the throttle response, slightly increases regenerative braking, modifies steering assistance, and adds a sound effect, though some may find the audio enhancement unnecessary.
2024 Model of Honda Prologue
Certainly, there are a few peculiar features. Notably, adjustments to the headlights and the settings for regenerative braking can only be made through a symbol located in the upper section of the entertainment system’s display.
The introductory interface of the Prologue’s entertainment system could be improved with a more streamlined design. Currently, adjusting settings requires navigating from the main screen to additional menus. However, initial experiences indicate a swift response time, devoid of the temporary hiccups and significant issues that Green Car Reports and others have observed with the Blazer EV. Additionally, it supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2024 Model of Honda Named Pro
The introduction of Google’s technology in route-preparation and pre-conditioning
Honda’s Prologue will incorporate Google’s interface, similar to General Motors, utilizing the Android Automotive OS as its foundation. This system integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store as in-built applications within the car, allowing for navigation that relies on Google’s database of charging stations and continuously monitors the car’s battery level during travel.
In contrast to the Chevy Blazer EV’s manual option for preconditioning, the Honda Prologue initiates preconditioning solely when it’s headed to a charging point, as Honda verified with Green Car Reports. Honda also highlighted that its software took a different direction from GM’s during a certain stage in the development of the system, ensuring that the issues plaguing the Blazer EV’s interface have no impact on the Prologue.
The introductory remarks reveal that the Prologue’s charging capabilities are not particularly impressive for long journeys, and Honda practically advised against attempting it. This was due in part to the fact that three of the four plugs at the closest Electrify America station were out of service during the event. The vehicle’s DC fast-charging can reach a maximum of 150 kW, enabling a charge from 20% to 80% in roughly 35 minutes. Considering this only replenishes 60% of the battery, it equates to a few hours of driving at 70 mph before needing a 30-minute charge stop under less than perfect conditions. However, on a positive note, the Prologue is equipped with an 11.5 kW onboard charger that supports a full charge at home overnight, providing the necessary equipment is installed.
The 2024 model of the
The Prologue’s base price is set at $48,795 for the single-motor front-wheel-drive version, inclusive of the $1,395 shipping fee. This model comes equipped with a full suite of technological features, internet connectivity, heated seating in the front, a driver’s seat with 10-way power adjustment, and climate control that manages two zones independently. The starting price for the dual-motor all-wheel-drive models is $51,795, presenting what appears to be the superior value within the range. The intermediate Touring editions are priced at $53,095 for the front-wheel variant and $56,095 for the all-wheel-drive option, bringing additional luxuries such as an expansive sunroof, premium Bose sound system, seats with memory functions, and enhanced interior finishes. Additionally, these prices factor in the eligibility for a $7,500 tax credit.
During my experience with the high-end Elite AWD model, priced at $59,295 and equipped with 21-inch wheels, premium perforated leather seats, decorative stitching, a steering wheel with heating capabilities, and ventilated seats in the front, it appeared that the Prologue is inching towards the same space occupied by vehicles like the Kia EV9, the Cadillac Lyriq, the more dynamic Chevy Blazer EV variants, or the Acura ZDX, to name a few.
It is anticipated that the Prologue will qualify for the entire $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles, and it is likely that the majority, if not all, of the other models will be eligible as well.
The upcoming 2024 model from
Is GM capable of producing a sufficient number of vehicles?
There’s also another significant concern. Honda is banking on GM to deliver 40,000 Prologue units annually, beginning this year, and potentially increasing to 70,000 each year. Honda believes it has the market for these vehicles. However, given GM’s challenges in scaling up electric vehicle production despite high demand, Honda’s worry may be justified.
After initially viewing the Prologue’s preview in September, my impression is that this electric vehicle hits the mark—it presents itself as a conventional choice rather than a specialized venture akin to the Toyota bZ4X. Having spent additional time with the Prologue, including driving it, I’m assured that Honda’s strategy will appeal to those interested in electric options currently driving models like the Accord, CR-V, or Passport, and it might even attract the attention of some Camry and Highlander owners.
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