The wait for Honda to fully embrace electric vehicles seems endless. 2024 can‘t come soon enough – enter the Prologue. As Honda‘s first real effort to win over EV buyers, expectations weigh heavy for their upcoming mid-size electric SUV to finally vault them into relevance.
Being Honda‘s debut battery-powered model created expressly for North American motorists also amplifies the importance of Prologue‘s success. Will this clean slate entry signal Honda‘s electrified evolution is here? Or does the brand risk being left behind as the industry changes gears?
I‘ve meticulously compiled everything disclosed and deduced thus far about the pivotal 2024 Honda Prologue. My comprehensive guide arms you with insights needed to decide if the Prologue deserves shortlisting next to rivals from Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota and more when shopping electric SUVs and crossovers soon.
Why the Stakes are Sky-High for the Prologue
Before exploring what we know about the Prologue itself, why does an unreleased SUV most buyers can’t even test drive yet warrant such intense scrutiny?
Honda‘s History of Half-Hearted Electric Efforts
Frankly, because faith in Honda‘s electric ambitions is exhausted. The all-electric Honda e sold overseas demonstrates underlying capacity, winning decent reviews since its 2020 launch.
Yet ignoring the US market while discontinuing the shockingly short-range Clarity EV here eroded trust. Consequently, the Prologue must single-handedly restore hope that Honda can deliver compelling battery-powered models stateside after years of inertia.
The Prologue Defines Honda‘s Electric Vision
More broadly, the Prologue sets the tempo for achieving Honda‘s sweeping electrification targets over the next 20 years. This spans selling a half million EVs annually in North America by 2030, to eliminating gas vehicles from their global lineup entirely before 2040.
If the Prologue fails to resonate with extended range, polished design or enthusiastic marketing support, why believe in more ambitious timelines for 30+ Honda EVs in the pipeline?
First impressions particularly matter when playing catchup. So the Prologue carrying the transitional torch for Honda EV early adopters arrives freighted with consequence.
Demystifying Powertrains: How Does Prologue Performance Stack Up?
Most vitally, can the Prologue deliver numbers and capability compelling enough to rival industry frontrunners? Thankfully with production one year out, details on components like the battery and electric motor aren‘t total mysteries.
The Prologue bases its foundations off the flexible Ultium platform jointly engineered by Honda and General Motors. Specifically, leaked reports indicate the Prologue integrates:
- 60 kWh battery pack (Same capacity as Chevy Equinox EV)
- Front motor drive unit rated at ~200 horsepower
- Support for Level 2 AC + DC Fast charging
This setup suggests competitive rather than class-leading performance. Ample range and responsive acceleration aptly balance efficiency instead of prioritizing either extreme.
Range and Charging Analysis
Officially, Honda confirms the Prologue aims for an EPA-estimated reach “up to 320 miles” from its 60 kWh pack. Real-world conditions vary, but targeting roughly 300 miles conveys strong dedication towards alleviating range anxiety.
How does this equate against alternatives shoppers are measuring the Prologue against? Directly comparing advertised maximum ranges reveals a favorable outlook:
| Model | Battery Capacity | Max EPA Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Honda Prologue | 60 kWh (est.) | 320 miles |
| 2023 VW ID.4 | 62/82 kWh | 260/320 miles |
| 2023 Toyota bZ4X | 71.4 kWh | 242 miles |
| 2022 Ford Mustang | 88/98 kWh | 260/300 miles |
The Prologue‘s 320 mile ceiling sits among best-in-class against similarly sized electric SUV and crossover rivals. Only the mighty Ford Mustang Mach E with its extended range 98 kWh battery clearly pulls ahead for driving distance.
Charging likewise stands to impress with compatibility for both AC Level 2 charging up to 7 kW alongside 100+ kW DC fast charging. This enables substantial range recovery when time is limited.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Sheer acceleration metrics remain unconfirmed, but output of ~200 horsepower fits appropriately. Identical to the Equinox EV, the Prologue won‘t lead in velocity but should deliver sufficiently brisk family transportation without guzzling energy reserves.
Its front-wheel drive architecture positions efficiency over athleticism too. Traction limitations and modest torque steer in slippery conditions represent the tradeoff for improved cost and mileage.
Add in familiar CUV styling over edgier profiles and the Prologue clearly caters towards practical suburban commuting rather than pulse-raising performance. Priority resides with being the smartest, not fastest, EV on the block.
Simplifying the MSRP: How Affordable is the 2024 Prologue?
Bang for buck value factors prominently for buyers determining whether the 2024 Honda Prologue deserves shortlisting. Evaluating electric vehicle sticker prices turns confusing quickly when accounting for incentives and taxes.
Let’s demystify the dollars and cents:
MSRP Starting Price – Honda confirms the base Prologue trim will retail from roughly $45,000 before additional savings for qualifying buyers.
Effective Price Comparison – Factoring in the $7,500 Federal EV tax credit plus estimated $2,000 average state rebates, out-the-door prices could land closer to $35,500 for base models.
How does this contrast with alternative electric SUVs and crossovers hunting the same wallet share?
| Model | Base MSRP | Effective Price* |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Honda Prologue | $45,000 | $35,500 |
| 2023 Toyota bZ4X | $42,000 | $32,500 |
| 2023 VW ID.4 | $41,190 | $31,690 |
| 2022 Ford Mustang | $44,995 | $34,995 |
*Includes federal tax credit and estimated state incentives
The numbers validate Honda’s confidence. An affordable $45,000 starting point undercuts most direct opponents even before the tax credit advantage. Striking an optimal balance between price and 300+ miles of driving freedom makes budget-minded buyers take notice.
Reshaping Honda‘s Portfolio: Who is the Prologue For?
Establishing that on paper the Prologue keeps pace with alternatives for family SUV shoppers counts for little if Honda dealerships can’t seal the deal. Does the brand revamping sales operations to support an EV push inspire confidence?
Dealer Network Concerns
Some analysts question whether Honda’s dealer network accustomed to gas vehicles can embrace EVs’ unique requirements around sales expertise, charging support and aftercare.
Addressing skepticism, Honda responds that over two-thirds of US dealers already opted into specialized EV sales certification programs. Moreover, participating showrooms will install at least two public DC fast chargers by 2024 for Prologue customers to access.
Ongoing concerns about the driving range experience dissuading traditional Honda loyalists similarly motivate an emphasis on seamless support.
Target Customer Profile
So who exactly is the Prologue intended for amidst Honda’s sales force evolution? Formal consumer research offered clues:
- Mostly married couples, often with children
- Typically college educated owners of homes
- Normally live in suburban or medium-density metro areas
- Median age hovered mid-to-late 40s
- Weigh practicality and reliability over flashy styling
The characteristics describe a target demographic synonymous with crossover popularity and past Honda buyers. Yet just over half were switching from non-Honda brands.
This hints at the Prologue’s brighter allure compared against Honda’s existing SUV roster. Applicability spans loyal owners appreciating improved environment benefits and new customers drawn increasing electric vehicle consideration.
Either way, initial datafinding confirms the Prologue strikes accessible family vehicle nerves – when supported properly post-purchase.
Gauging Reviews: Positive Potential Despite Growing Pains
Most expert reviewers relay cautious optimism around embracing the 2024 Honda Prologue upon first glimpse. Meeting – not exceeding – expected range and performance bars earns appreciation but not awe.
Familiar styling similarly draws mixed reactions for playing it safe. With buzzier options from Ford, Hyundai/Kia and startups entering the arena, conservative shaping risks missing emotional marks.
Nevertheless, early drive opportunities of pilot mules earned applause for refinement. Combining Honda’s trademark ride comfort and cabin ergonomics with the relaxed silence of electric motivation scores points.
Critics rightfully ask whether dealers provide matching customer care. But presuming post-purchase support meets the vehicle’s promise itself, first verdicts conclude with hope the Prologue kickstarts an EV renaissance across Honda showrooms.
Selected Early 2024 Honda Prologue Reviews
| Outlet | Prologue Preview Excerpt |
|---|---|
| Car & Driver | "…should suit family transportation needs well with good range and likely a smooth ride and easy controls." |
| Motor Trend | "Probably not quick, but the range and packaging should satisfy." |
| Kelley Blue Book | "The Prologue has enormous importance for getting Honda’s future EV portfolio kickstarted on the right foot." |
In summary, analysts hesitantly highlight more potential positives than pitfalls from their initial glimpse. But uncertainty lingers whether the Prologue escapes an atmosphere of irrelevance created by Honda’s previous missteps.
Assuming dealerships step up support for customers in transitioning from gas, the vehicle itself appears positioned to blossom into a sales success.
Comparing the Contenders: How Does the Prologue Size Up?
Even warming reviews don’t guarantee universal consumer adoration automatically for the Prologue. Hesitant shoppers weighing their options deserve context of strengths and weaknesses amongst the existing electric SUV landscape.
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Honda Prologue | – Competitive 300+ mile range – Familiar brand – Smooth comfortable ride | – Conservative latecomer styling – Limited dealer EV reputation |
| Ford Mustang Mach E | – Sporty fastback design – Enthusiast appeal | – Much pricier – Lower range base models |
| Volkswagen ID.4 | – Spacious versatile interior – 225+ mile range | – Reliability questions – Choppy drive dynamics |
| Toyota bZ4X | – Toyota‘s sterling reputation – 250 mile range | – Controversial styling – Unproven tech teething issues |
Matchups confirm validated assumptions: the 2024 Honda Prologue impresses better on paper than heart. Top tier range, ride comfort and brand familiarity check rational boxes even if the exterior appears anodyne.
Clever shoppers recognizing Honda’s past undeserved EV reputation may leverage that to negotiate cheaper leases if dealer enthusiasm looks tepid. Those valuing reliability and a smooth experience most will find the Prologue stacking up well.
Meanwhile the sportier, flashier personalities from Ford or more avant-garde futurism of Toyota and VW models cater better to different preferences. Fortunately with ever-growing EV model diversity, finding an electric SUV well-suited to your needs gets easier by the year.
What Comes Next? More Upcoming Hondas EVs Beyond the Prologue
The Prologue trails headlines today, but what comes next for Honda electrification? Expect an avalanche of new EVs as Honda moves to meet their target of 40% EV sales by 2030.
Flagship Acura SUV Echoing the Prologue
Slated for 2024 alongside the Honda Prologue is a luxe Acura co-flagship. Assume similar 300 mile range and packaging, albeit wrapped in more premium design language and features.
Industry whispers suggest exterior styling and interior appointments drawing heavy inspiration from the well-received 2017 Acura Precision Concept. This critically acclaimed prototype combined a tapered sportback roofline with an ultra-wide screen dashboard.
Smaller Crossover EV Plus Honda e:Ny1 Sedan
Honda also trademarked the e:Ny1 nameplate, strongly hinting at a Civic-sized fully electric sedan using their new dedicated EV architecture. Whether named e:Ny1 or similar, a smaller crossover slotting underneath the compact CR-V also makes imminent sense.
Total Honda EVs Coming: 30+ by 2030
Factoring in multiple iterations and variants for flexibility, Honda plans call for introducing over 30 distinct electric models for sale globally before the end of this decade.
This epic product offensive aims to transform perceptions of a company once infamously disengaged and complacent regarding electrification. The Prologue lights the fuse – an unprecedented barrage of choice thereafter might sustain Honda EV momentum for good.
Your Most Asked Prologue Questions Answered
When can I buy the 2024 Honda Prologue?
Official timing promises 2024 model year production beginning in early 2023. Expect media unveils and pre-order reservations possibly by end of 2022, with customer deliveries from Q2 2023 forward.
How much range will the Prologue EV actually have?
Published targets promise approximately 300 real-world miles from the 60 kWh Ultium battery pack. Pending EPA certification should confirm by next year, but matching a Kia EV6 or Mustang Mach E range seems reasonable.
Does the Prologue qualify for electric vehicle tax credits?
Yes, the $7,500 federal tax credit does apply to the Honda Prologue based on eligibility rules around price and battery capacity thresholds. Check your state incentives too.
What SUV is the all-electric Prologue replacing?
Unlike the Prologue, every current gas-powered Honda SUV remains in production from compact CR-V models upwards. Instead, the Prologue supplements the existing range as an exclusively zero-emissions option.
I hope this exhaustive preview gives you supreme confidence deciding whether to shortlist Honda’s make-or-break 2024 Prologue EV when swelling crowds of electric SUV options appear. Feel free to reach out directly as an EV expert and former Honda owner if any other Prologue questions arise!
