Will fanbase raise a glass to cost-extra special colour?

SEEING absolute red in the latest Prelude might be a challenge in the traditional sense, given its abdication from high-revving pure petrol sports motors of old to an eco-themed electric-assist drivetrain now.

But to see one in red? Yes, that’s possible.

Honda New Zealand has announced a special edition of the coupe, with finishing elements that appear to add $2500 to the recommended retail, which still stands at $69,990 according to the national distributor’s website.

The Bordeaux Edition is mainly about being finished in a new hue.

The Premium Crystal Garnet Red, the maker says, is designed to catch the light and emphasise the Prelude’s fluid contours.

Aside from the body colour, the car has red accents on the front and rear bumpers, vibrant red Brembo brake calipers and 19-inch machined black alloy wheels.

The interior also gets blooded, with Honda saying that presenting it in “a rich Bordeaux colour scheme” transforms the cabin.

Contrast red stitching highlights the steering wheel, centre console and dashboard, then continues across the front seats and door trim for a cohesive, bespoke finish. Dedicated floor mats with red accents complete the look.

This latest Prelude arrived earlier this year, reprising a nameplate that had been dormant for almost quarter of a century, but this time with a e:HEV petrol-electric drivetrain, whose economy is strong but on-paper outputs modest, at 135kW and 315Nm.