When the Honda Prologue hit U.S. roads in 2024, it was hailed as Honda’s long-awaited step into the electric era. Built in partnership with General Motors, the Prologue delivered solid range, sharp styling, and reliable performance—all backed by Honda’s reputation for dependability.
But here’s the twist: the Prologue isn’t Honda’s “real” EV. It’s more of a bridge—a way to enter the electric market quickly while the brand’s true next-generation EVs are still in development.
That all changes in 2026, when Honda launches its 0 Series—a new wave of fully in-house electric vehicles that promise to redefine performance, design, and identity for Honda.
So, what makes the 2026 models so special? And how do they stack up against the Prologue? Let’s break down how 2026 will change everything for Honda’s electric future.
The Honda Prologue: A Solid Start to Honda’s EV Journey
The 2025 Honda Prologue is a capable, comfortable, and practical SUV—exactly what you’d expect from Honda’s first serious EV. It rides on GM’s Ultium platform, the same architecture used by the Chevy Blazer EV and Cadillac Lyriq.
Performance and Range
- Motor Options:
- Single-motor FWD: 212 horsepower
- Dual-motor AWD: 288 horsepower
- Range: Up to 320 miles (FWD), 296 miles (AWD)
- Charging: DC fast charging from 20% to 80% in about 35 minutes
- Battery: 85 kWh pack shared with GM’s Ultium lineup
The Prologue drives smoothly, offers balanced handling, and feels like a proper SUV. It’s not flashy—but that’s the point. Honda built it for mainstream buyers, not just EV enthusiasts.
Technology and Comfort
Inside, the Prologue uses Google’s built-in software, featuring Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store right on the 11.3-inch touchscreen. The cabin is spacious, cleanly designed, and filled with Honda’s typical comfort touches: quiet operation, high seating position, and intuitive controls.
Charging Advantage: Tesla Supercharger Access
In 2025, Honda confirmed that Prologue owners can use Tesla’s Supercharger network via a NACS adapter. This gives the SUV access to over 15,000 chargers across the U.S., making road trips far more practical.
Verdict so far: The Prologue is a reliable and range-competitive electric SUV. But—it’s not fully Honda.
The Catch: The Prologue Isn’t a “True Honda EV”
While the Prologue carries Honda’s badge, the engineering DNA comes from General Motors. That partnership allowed Honda to enter the EV market quickly, but it also limited what the brand could customize.
Here’s what that means:
- The platform and battery system are designed by GM.
- Honda’s control is mostly over the design, tuning, and user interface.
- Future updates depend on GM’s tech roadmap, not Honda’s.
That’s where the 2026 0 Series comes in—and it’s going to be a completely different story.
Introducing Honda’s 0 Series: The Real EVs Begin in 2026
In early 2024, Honda announced its upcoming “0 Series”—the company’s first entirely in-house line of electric vehicles.
Unlike the Prologue, these EVs will be engineered, built, and powered by Honda’s own technology from the ground up.
What We Know So Far
- Launching in North America in 2026, followed by global rollout.
- Built on Honda’s new dedicated EV platform—lightweight, efficient, and modular.
- Honda is focusing on “Thin, Light, and Wise” design principles—meaning slim batteries, low weight, and intelligent software integration.
- The first models will include a next-gen electric SUV and a low-profile sedan inspired by Honda’s 0 Series concepts.
- Honda aims for longer ranges (350+ miles) and faster charging speeds than the Prologue.
These EVs will also support native NACS charging ports, meaning no adapters are required for Tesla Superchargers—a step up from the Prologue’s retrofit solution.
Side-by-Side: Honda Prologue vs. Honda 0 Series (2026)
| Feature | Honda Prologue (2025) | Honda 0 Series (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | GM Ultium (shared) | Honda EV Architecture (in-house) |
| Range | Up to 320 miles | Estimated 350+ miles |
| Charging | CCS + Tesla adapter | Native NACS, faster charging |
| Performance | Up to 288 hp | 300–400 hp (expected) |
| Design Focus | Conservative, SUV mainstream | Futuristic, lightweight, aerodynamic |
| Software | Google built-in | Honda OS with AI integration |
| Production | Jointly built with GM | Built at Honda’s Ohio EV Hub |
| Ownership Experience | Reliable entry EV | Full Honda innovation and identity |
The difference is clear: the 0 Series will be Honda’s true EV renaissance — built by Honda, for Honda drivers.
Why 2026 Changes Everything for Honda
1. From Borrowed to Built
The Prologue gave Honda a head start, but the 0 Series represents independence. Once Honda transitions to its own EV architecture, it gains control over design, software, and long-term updates—something no partnership could offer.
2. Unified Honda Experience
The 0 Series will carry Honda’s signature traits—sharp handling, efficient engineering, and driver-focused interiors. Think of it as the Civic and Accord philosophy reborn for the electric age.
3. Cost and Efficiency
Honda’s in-house EV systems will reduce dependency on suppliers and licensing fees. Over time, that could make Honda’s electric SUVs more affordable and easier to scale than the Prologue.
4. Future-Proofed Technology
With a dedicated EV platform, Honda can evolve its vehicles faster—adding AI, smart energy management, and over-the-air upgrades. Expect 2026 models to support advanced driver assistance and next-gen infotainment.
Should You Buy the Prologue or Wait for 2026?
If you’re shopping for an EV today, the Honda Prologue is a great choice—it’s proven, efficient, and backed by a trusted brand. For drivers who want an electric SUV now, it’s a safe bet.
However, if you’re willing to wait, 2026’s 0 Series will be worth your patience. It will deliver everything Honda couldn’t fully achieve with the Prologue—faster charging, better performance, and the brand’s authentic design and driving DNA.
In short:
- Buy the Prologue if you want a reliable, accessible EV today.
- Wait for the 0 Series if you want the next-level Honda experience.
Final Verdict: Honda’s EV Evolution Has Just Begun
The Honda Prologue was the first chapter in Honda’s electric story—a well-built, dependable SUV that brought Honda into the EV conversation. But the 2026 Honda 0 Series will be the real revolution.
It’s where Honda’s innovation, identity, and engineering independence truly shine.
So while the prologue started the race, 2026 is when Honda takes the lead.
