Honda Enters the Electric Era with the Prologue SUV
The automotive world is undergoing a significant transformation as electrification takes center stage. Honda, a brand known for its innovative spirit and reliable vehicles, is joining the electric vehicle (EV) revolution with the introduction of the 2024 Honda Prologue. The Prologue is Honda’s first electric SUV, and it marks a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to an electric future. In this review, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the 2024 Honda Prologue, exploring its design, performance, features, and pricing. So, let’s dive into what makes the Prologue an exciting addition to the world of electric vehicles.
Design and Styling: Agile and Effortless
The 2024 Honda Prologue makes a strong first impression with its modern and sleek design. The exterior styling is an evolution of Honda’s current design language, incorporating elements that signify the brand’s shift towards electrification. The front grille, for instance, has been reinterpreted for an electric vehicle, featuring a sleek and closed-off design that improves aerodynamics. The LED headlights flow seamlessly into the grille, creating a sense of width and modernity. From the side, the Prologue exhibits a coupe-like profile, with a sweeping roofline and a sleek greenhouse. The overall proportions are well-balanced, and the SUV sits confidently on its available 20-inch wheels. At the rear, the full-width LED taillight bar and sleek bumper design further emphasize the Prologue’s width, giving it a stable and grounded appearance. Overall, the design is an agile and effortless interpretation of an electric SUV, setting the Prologue apart from its competitors.
Interior and Technology: Spacious and Connected
Step inside the Honda Prologue, and you’re greeted by a spacious and technologically advanced cabin. The interior design is characterized by clean lines, premium materials, and an overall sense of airiness. The dashboard layout is simple and uncluttered, with a focus on horizontal elements that enhance the sense of space. The center console features a floating bridge design, providing additional storage and housing the electronic shift-by-wire gear selector. The front seats are comfortable and offer good support, with available heating, ventilation, and power adjustment. The rear seats provide ample legroom, ensuring comfort for passengers on long journeys. When it comes to technology, the Prologue impresses with its standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, and wireless smartphone charging is available. The Prologue also offers an array of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Performance and Range: Electric Power
The Honda Prologue is powered by a robust electric powertrain, delivering instant torque and responsive performance. It features a 109 kWh lithium-ion battery pack paired with a rear-mounted electric motor in the single-motor configuration or two electric motors in the dual-motor setup. The single-motor version produces 255 horsepower and offers an estimated range of 290 miles, while the dual-motor all-wheel-drive model generates 355 horsepower and provides an estimated range of 260 miles. Both configurations deliver smooth and immediate acceleration, typical of electric vehicles. The Prologue’s handling is agile and responsive, benefiting from its low center of gravity due to the underfloor battery placement. The SUV feels stable and planted, providing a confident driving experience whether on city streets or winding roads.
Charging and Infrastructure
One of the essential considerations for electric vehicle owners is charging convenience and infrastructure. Honda has partnered with Electrify America to provide Prologue owners with access to a robust charging network. Electrify America currently operates over 2,400 charging stations and 10,000 individual chargers across the United States, ensuring that Prologue drivers can easily find charging locations during their travels. The Prologue supports DC fast charging at rates up to 150 kW, enabling it to add approximately 76 miles of range in just 10 minutes and charge from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes. At home, owners can install a Level 2 charger (up to 7.2 kW) to achieve a full charge overnight. Honda also offers a mobile app that provides remote monitoring of the vehicle’s charge status, allowing owners to start and stop charging sessions remotely and take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2024 Honda Prologue is offered in four trim levels: Base, Touring, and two exclusive launch editions – the First Edition and the Edition 1. The base model starts at a competitive price of $42,900 (before applicable tax credits), making it an attractive proposition in the electric SUV segment. The Touring trim adds features such as a hands-free power liftgate, a premium audio system, and wireless smartphone charging, starting at $47,700. The First Edition, limited to 2024 units, includes unique styling elements, a solar-powered remote start, and exclusive interior trim, priced at $54,400. Finally, the range-topping Edition 1, limited to just 100 units, comes fully loaded with all available features, a distinctive exterior color, and a starting price of $60,700. With these trim levels, Honda ensures that customers can find a Prologue that aligns with their desired level of equipment and budget.
Competition and Comparisons
The Honda Prologue enters a competitive market segment, facing rivals such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The Mustang Mach-E stands out for its sporty performance and iconic styling, while the ID.4 offers a more affordable package with a spacious interior. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, on the other hand, impresses with its cutting-edge design and advanced technology. When compared to these competitors, the Prologue holds its own with a well-rounded package that combines performance, style, and technology. Its competitive pricing and the backing of Honda’s trusted brand image further strengthen its position in the market. Additionally, the Prologue’s SUV body style and spacious interior give it an edge over some of the more compact electric vehicles on the market.
Conclusion
With the 2024 Honda Prologue, Honda has signaled its commitment to an electric future, and it has done so in style. The Prologue is an agile and effortlessly designed electric SUV that offers a compelling package of performance, technology, and comfort. Its competitive pricing, impressive range, and access to a robust charging network make it a strong contender in the electric vehicle market. While the Prologue may share some similarities with other electric SUVs, it retains a unique character and driving experience that is distinctly Honda. As the brand’s first electric SUV, the Prologue serves as a promising prologue to Honda’s electric future, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.
