The Honda Prologue 85 kWh (288 Hp) Dual Motor AWD, launched in March 2024, represents Honda’s initial foray into the all-electric SUV market in North America. Developed in collaboration with General Motors, the Prologue is built on GM’s Ultium platform and aims to provide Honda customers with a competitive electric vehicle option. This particular variant, featuring an 85 kWh battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel drive, is positioned as a mid-range offering within the Prologue lineup, balancing range, performance, and price. It’s a key component of Honda’s broader electrification strategy, intended to accelerate the brand’s transition towards a zero-emission future.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Prologue |
| Generation | Prologue |
| Type (Engine) | 85 kWh (288 Hp) Dual Motor AWD |
| Start of production | March, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 195.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 85 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel cobalt manganese aluminum (Li-NCMA) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (EPA) | 439-452 km (272.78 – 280.86 mi) |
| Electric motor 1 power | 241 Hp |
| Electric motor 1 Torque | 305 Nm (224.96 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 1 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 power | 90 Hp |
| Electric motor 2 Torque | 164 Nm (120.96 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Asynchronous |
| System power | 288 Hp |
| System torque | 451 Nm (332.64 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2307-2392 kg (5086.06 – 5273.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 671 l (23.7 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1543 l (54.49 cu. ft.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4877 mm (192.01 in.) |
| Width | 1989 mm (78.31 in.) |
| Height | 1656 mm (65.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3094 mm (121.81 in.) |
| Front track | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 206 mm (8.11 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 345 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 275/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 9.5J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Honda Prologue 85 kWh Dual Motor AWD utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain. The front motor, a synchronous type, delivers 241 horsepower, while the rear motor, an asynchronous design, contributes 90 horsepower. Combined, the system produces 288 horsepower and 451 Nm (332.64 lb.-ft.) of torque. The powertrain is powered by an 85 kWh lithium-nickel cobalt manganese aluminum (Li-NCMA) battery pack located beneath the vehicle floor, contributing to a low center of gravity and improved handling. The Prologue employs a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of electric vehicles, focusing on smooth and efficient power delivery. The Ultium platform’s 400V architecture allows for relatively fast DC fast charging capabilities, adding approximately 30 miles of range in 10 minutes under ideal conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The dual-motor AWD configuration of the Prologue provides confident traction and acceleration. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 288 hp output delivers adequate power for everyday driving and highway merging. The single-speed transmission offers seamless acceleration, and the instant torque characteristic of electric motors provides a responsive driving experience. Compared to potential future higher-performance Prologue variants, this version prioritizes efficiency and range over outright speed. The weight distribution, aided by the battery pack’s placement, contributes to a stable and predictable handling feel. The Prologue’s regenerative braking system allows for one-pedal driving, enhancing efficiency and driver control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 85 kWh Dual Motor AWD Prologue trim generally includes standard features such as a large 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a comprehensive suite of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistance technologies. Interior upholstery typically consists of premium cloth or available leatherette options. Available options include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system. The exterior features distinctive styling cues, including a modern front fascia and sleek LED lighting. The trim level sits comfortably in the middle of the Prologue range, offering a balance of features and value.
Chassis & Braking
The Prologue utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system both front and rear, optimized for ride comfort and handling. A transverse stabilizer bar is included at both ends to minimize body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front (320mm) and solid discs at the rear (345mm). Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with other electronic stability control systems. The Prologue’s relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to its stable and controlled handling characteristics. The vehicle’s ride height of 206 mm (8.11 in.) provides adequate ground clearance for typical road conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
Initial reviews of the Honda Prologue have been generally positive, with critics praising its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. The 85 kWh Dual Motor AWD variant is considered a strong contender in the electric SUV segment, offering a competitive range and a well-rounded feature set. Compared to other trims in the Prologue lineup, this version provides a good balance between price and performance. Fuel economy, expressed as MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent), is estimated to be around 93 combined. Reliability is still being assessed, as the Prologue is a new model, but Honda’s reputation for build quality and durability is expected to contribute to long-term dependability.
Legacy
The Honda Prologue represents a significant step for Honda in the electric vehicle market. While it’s too early to definitively assess its long-term reliability, the Ultium platform’s proven track record in other GM vehicles suggests a solid foundation. The Prologue’s success will likely influence Honda’s future EV offerings and accelerate the brand’s transition towards a fully electric lineup. In the used car market, the Prologue is expected to hold its value reasonably well, particularly well-maintained examples with lower mileage. The 85 kWh Dual Motor AWD variant is likely to be a popular choice among buyers seeking a balance of range, performance, and practicality.
