The 2024 Honda Prologue represents a significant milestone in the Japanese automaker’s evolving electrification strategy for the North American market.
This all-electric SUV, developed through a strategic partnership with General Motors, balances Honda’s traditional values of reliability and practical design with the demands of an increasingly electrified automotive landscape.
As the brand’s first volume-production electric vehicle for the United States, the Prologue establishes Honda’s presence in a rapidly expanding segment while setting the foundation for its broader electric ambitions.
Design Philosophy and Exterior Aesthetics
The Prologue’s exterior design embodies what Honda describes as “Neo-Rugged” aesthetics – a clean, contemporary interpretation of SUV styling that communicates both capability and technological sophistication.
Measuring 192 inches in length, 78.3 inches in width, and 65 inches in height, the vehicle positions itself firmly in the midsize crossover category. The substantial 121.8-inch wheelbase – notably longer than the CR-V’s – creates both generous interior volume and balanced proportions.
The front fascia presents a distinctive appearance that differentiates the Prologue from Honda’s internal combustion offerings while maintaining family resemblance. The sealed grille area, characteristic of electric vehicles, features a sleek illuminated “H” badge, while slim LED lighting elements create a modern, tech-forward impression.
The vehicle’s profile reveals careful attention to aerodynamic efficiency, with flush door handles and optimized surface transitions that minimize drag while maintaining visual substance.
Available in eight exterior colors, including the Prologue-exclusive North Shore Pearl and Quantum Silver Metallic, the vehicle offers visual variety that ranges from subtle sophistication to bold expressiveness. The standard 19-inch alloy wheels on entry models grow to 21-inch designs on upper trims, featuring aerodynamic considerations that balance efficiency and presence.
Powertrain Technology and Performance Characteristics
The Prologue’s electric powertrain, developed in collaboration with General Motors and sharing core architecture with the Chevrolet Blazer EV, delivers impressive specifications that position it competitively within the electric SUV landscape.
The standard configuration pairs a 85 kWh battery pack with a single motor producing 210 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, driving the front wheels in a familiar configuration for Honda customers.
The available all-wheel-drive system introduces a second motor at the rear axle, increasing output to 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. This dual-motor configuration delivers both enhanced all-weather capability and improved performance metrics, with 0-60 mph acceleration requiring approximately 5.8 seconds – brisk for a vehicle of this size and purpose.
Range capabilities reflect the practical considerations essential for American consumers. The front-wheel-drive Prologue achieves an EPA-estimated range of 296 miles, while the all-wheel-drive variant maintains a competitive 281 miles.
These figures position the vehicle appropriately for both urban commuting and regional travel, addressing much of the range anxiety that continues to influence electric vehicle adoption.
Charging capabilities accommodate diverse usage patterns. The vehicle supports DC fast charging at rates up to 155 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in approximately 40 minutes under optimal conditions.
For home charging, the onboard 11.5 kW charger can fully replenish the battery in approximately 10 hours when connected to a Level 2 charging station – convenient for overnight charging during typical ownership patterns.
Interior Environment and Technology Integration
The Prologue’s cabin presents a thoughtful interpretation of Honda’s interior design philosophy, adapted for the unique characteristics of an electric vehicle. The horizontally oriented dashboard creates an impression of spaciousness, while the elevated center console provides convenient storage and intuitive control positioning.
Material quality throughout the interior reflects the vehicle’s premium positioning, with soft-touch surfaces and available leather upholstery creating a refined environment.
The technology interface centers around a standard 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by an 11-inch digital instrument display. The system features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with native Google functionality including Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play.
Multiple USB-C ports accommodate device connectivity, while the available wireless charging pad supports convenient power delivery for compatible devices.
Passenger accommodation benefits from the dedicated electric platform. The flat floor creates enhanced rear legroom, while the substantial wheelbase translates to generous proportions in both seating rows. Front seat heating comes standard, with ventilation and rear seat heating available on upper trims.
Cargo capacity measures 25.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 63.1 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded – competitive figures that maintain the practical utility expected from Honda products.
Advanced Safety Systems and Driver Assistance
Honda’s commitment to safety continues with the Prologue, incorporating the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance technologies as standard equipment.
The package includes collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Upper trims add blind spot information, rear cross traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors.
Notable for electric vehicle operation is the addition of specific sound generation technology that produces subtle external audio cues at low speeds, alerting pedestrians to the vehicle’s presence.
Interior sound design has received careful attention, with acoustic glass and strategic insulation creating a serene cabin environment that capitalizes on the inherent quietness of electric propulsion.
The vehicle’s structure incorporates multiple crash absorption zones designed specifically for the requirements of an electric platform, with particular attention to battery protection. The standard reinforced battery enclosure provides both structural rigidity and protection for the energy storage system.
Driving Dynamics and Vehicle Character
The Prologue delivers driving dynamics that balance the familiar Honda characteristics of responsiveness and refinement with the unique attributes of electric propulsion.
The low-mounted battery pack contributes to a center of gravity approximately four inches lower than comparable internal combustion SUVs, enhancing stability during cornering maneuvers.
The well-calibrated suspension system effectively manages the vehicle’s substantial weight while maintaining composed ride quality across varying surface conditions.
Steering response provides appropriate weighting and precise vehicle placement, though ultimate road feel remains somewhat filtered compared to Honda’s sportier offerings.
The regenerative braking system offers multiple intensity levels selectable through steering wheel paddles, allowing drivers to customize the level of deceleration when releasing the accelerator pedal. At its highest setting, this enables effective one-pedal driving in many scenarios, enhancing both convenience and efficiency.
Road noise remains well-suppressed through comprehensive sound insulation and acoustic optimization. The absence of internal combustion vibration creates a serene environment particularly noticeable during highway cruising, where the Prologue demonstrates excellent stability and minimal wind noise even at elevated speeds.
Trim Structure and Market Positioning
Honda offers the Prologue in four distinct trim levels, creating a logical progression from value-oriented to premium configurations. The EX serves as the entry point, featuring cloth upholstery, heated front seats, and the complete Honda Sensing safety suite.
The EX-L adds leather seating surfaces, a power tailgate, and enhanced audio. The Touring incorporates additional luxury elements including a panoramic sunroof and 12-speaker premium audio system, while the range-topping Elite features 21-inch wheels, head-up display, and heated rear seats.
All-wheel drive availability extends across all trim levels, with a $2,800 premium reflecting the addition of the rear motor and associated components.
This structure creates an effective price range from approximately $48,000 for the base front-wheel-drive EX to around $59,000 for the fully-equipped Elite with all-wheel drive, positioning the Prologue competitively within the premium electric SUV segment.
The vehicle’s pricing strategy acknowledges the complex market dynamics affecting electric vehicle adoption, balancing technology costs against the availability of incentives.
Depending on specific circumstances, buyers may qualify for the federal tax credit of up to $7,500, potentially reducing the effective purchase price significantly.
Market Impact and Future Implications
The Prologue represents an important strategic step for Honda, establishing its presence in the electric SUV segment while developing the expertise and market positioning for its upcoming dedicated electric platform.
This measured approach allows Honda to enter the market with a competitive product while continuing development of its own electric architecture, scheduled for introduction later this decade.
For consumers, the Prologue offers a compelling combination of Honda’s traditional strengths – reliability, thoughtful design, and practical utility – with the benefits of electric propulsion.
The vehicle’s range capabilities, charging speeds, and overall packaging address many practical considerations that influence electric vehicle adoption, particularly for customers transitioning from conventional powertrains.
2024 Honda Prologue
The 2024 Honda Prologue demonstrates a thoughtful interpretation of electric mobility aligned with American market preferences and usage patterns. The vehicle successfully translates Honda’s core values into an electric context while delivering the practical utility and refined driving experience expected from the brand.
As both a standalone product and a strategic step toward a comprehensive electric lineup, the Prologue establishes a solid foundation for Honda’s continued evolution in an increasingly electrified automotive landscape.