HONDA is marking 25 years of hybrid performance with the European debut of the Prelude Concept and confirmation that the production model will return.

The new Prelude Concept will have its first public appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed from July 11 to 14.

Following the concept model's reveal at the Japan Mobility Show last year, Honda says the Prelude is set to deliver the perfect balance of exhilarating driving pleasure and outstanding efficiency - embodying its long-term commitment to electrification.

The original Prelude made its European debut 45 years ago and served as a high-performance showcase of Honda's technology for five generations until 2001.

The name "Prelude" refers to an introductory piece of music, and positions the car as a forerunner to future models that embody Honda's commitment to sports performance.

Tomoyuki Yamagami, chief engineer and large project leader at Honda Motor, said: "The new Prelude not only marks the latest chapter in our ever evolving hybrid story, it is also the product of 25 years of pioneering hybrid research and development.

"Ensuring this model maintains its ‘sporty' DNA by perfectly blending the efficiency and environmental advantages of electrified driving with an exhilarating experience behind the wheel - liberating users from their daily lives with increased driving pleasure."

"In addition, the Prelude demonstrates the continued importance of hybrid powertrains as part of Honda's automobile electrification strategy - a key step towards our commitment for 100 per cent of new vehicle sales to be battery electric or hydrogen fuel cell by 2040."