The Toyota Hiace is a popular one-box van that is not only used for commercial purposes but also for personal use such as outdoor activities and car camping

Honda is making headlines with its latest announcement: the all-new “Prologue,” a larger SUV model set to hit the North American market in winter 2024. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The burning question on everyone’s mind is whether the Prologue will eventually make its way to Japan, where Honda’s legacy has deep roots.

At the Japan Mobility Show 2023, running from October 25th to November 5th, Honda is gearing up to showcase an array of mobility products, cutting-edge technologies, and visionary concept models, spanning motorcycles, automobiles, power products, and even aircraft. Among the dazzling exhibits, the new “Prologue” prototype will make its debut in Japan, raising curiosity about what this vehicle has to offer.

The Prologue is a remarkable collaboration between Honda and General Motors (GM) from the United States. It’s not just any SUV; it’s an electric vehicle (EV) that harnesses GM’s cutting-edge “Ultium” battery technology. Honda has set an ambitious goal of achieving 100% global EV and FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) sales by 2040, and they’re making steady strides toward this objective by introducing EVs tailored to the specific market characteristics of each region.

The Prologue, poised to spearhead the widespread adoption of EVs in North America, boasts an impressive body size, measuring 4879mm in length, 1989mm in width, and 1643mm in height, with a generous wheelbase spanning 3094mm. Compared to the 6th generation CR-V available in the United States, the Prologue is approximately 200mm longer and 130mm wider, promising more space and comfort for passengers.

Honda’s design team in Los Angeles has taken the lead in crafting the Prologue’s interior and exterior with the concept of “Neo-rugged.” The result is an outdoor-style SUV that beautifully balances simplicity and sophistication with a rugged touch. Its exterior features a low, wide, and elegant silhouette, with top-of-the-line models sporting large 21-inch wheels, merging power and style seamlessly. Honda’s traditional “H” emblem has been replaced with a stylish “Honda” emblem in a distinctive typeface, introducing a fresh design element to strengthen Honda’s EV brand identity.

Inside the Prologue, a horizontally designed cabin provides a futuristic ambiance with an 11-inch fully digital meter and an 11.3-inch connectivity display. The top-tier model goes a step further, featuring a 7 x 3-inch head-up display that keeps essential information within the driver’s line of sight. The body color, named “North Shore Pearl,” takes inspiration from the natural beauty and colors surrounding Lake Tahoe in California, and the interior is adorned with a special charcoal and light gray palette reminiscent of freshly fallen snow in the mountains.

What sets the Prologue apart is its integration with Google Built-in, an in-vehicle connected service. This means drivers will have access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and other Google services right in the car. Moreover, the Prologue will benefit from over-the-air (OTA) software updates, ensuring drivers have access to the latest services and features.

Under the hood, the Prologue’s electric powertrain is designed to deliver both remarkable performance and an impressive cruising range. It features a multi-link suspension optimized for this specific model, providing a sporty driving experience that Honda is renowned for. Buyers will have the choice between a single-motor (FWD) or a dual-motor (AWD) configuration, expanding the range of options to cater to different driving preferences. The dual-motor version offers an exhilarating 288 hp and a torque of approximately 333 lb.-ft., ensuring potent acceleration and responsive handling.

Equipped with an 85kWh battery, the Prologue aims to achieve a cruising range of over 300 miles (approximately 482km) according to the EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) standards. Additionally, it supports DC fast charging, enabling high-output charging of 150kW or more, which can provide an impressive 65 miles (approximately 104 km) of range in just 10 minutes, making it convenient for drivers on the go.

While the Prologue is scheduled for release in the United States in the winter of 2024, Japanese enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting news of its arrival in their home market. Honda of America believes that this larger, spacious, and highly capable SUV will be a natural progression for CR-V users looking to elevate their driving experience.

As we stand on the brink of a new era in the automotive world, Honda’s Prologue emerges as a compelling symbol of the company’s dedication to electrification, innovation, and forward-thinking design. With its bold and eco-conscious approach, Honda is driving the future of mobility with the Prologue, and the world is watching with anticipation. Will this promising EV also make its way to Japan? Only time will tell.