Stepping into the Honda Prologue Elite, the first feature that grabs your attention isn’t the electric powertrain, but the meticulously crafted interior. This top-tier model of Honda’s foray into the electric SUV market boasts a sophisticated cabin, adorned with stylish brown and black leather seating and a panoramic sunroof that bathes both the front and rear passenger areas in natural light.
However, the core of the Prologue Elite, and what truly sets it apart, is its electric vehicle (EV) nature. Born from a collaborative effort with General Motors, it shares its platform with the Chevy Blazer EV, marking Honda’s strategic move into the competitive electric SUV segment.
Despite its electric heart, the driving dynamics of the Prologue Elite feel surprisingly familiar and reassuring. The all-wheel-drive configuration of this specific model delivers a brisk acceleration, thanks to its more potent motors compared to the rear-wheel-drive variant. The vehicle’s low center of gravity contributes to a planted feel on the road, offering confident and predictable handling.
Alt text: Interior view of the Honda Prologue Elite electric SUV showcasing brown and black leather seats and panoramic sunroof.
Yet, embracing EV ownership inevitably brings the crucial considerations of range and charging to the forefront. Upon initial pickup, the Prologue Elite indicated an estimated range of 241 miles. During a 100-mile drive in sub-freezing temperatures, the projected range diminished considerably, dropping to a mere 43 miles. This real-world experience highlighted a significant range reduction in colder conditions.
Subsequently, charging the battery from 22% to 98% at an EVgo fast charging station in North Bethesda resulted in a displayed estimated range of 269 miles. This figure, while substantial, fell short of the vehicle’s advertised ideal range of 300 miles. Furthermore, this single charging session incurred a cost of $40.17, underscoring the financial implications of public fast charging for EV owners without home charging capabilities.
Reliability, a key aspect for any vehicle, remains somewhat uncertain for this electric and jointly developed model. True to many EVs, a spare tire is not included, a point to consider for potential owners.
In terms of safety, the Prologue demonstrated strong performance in most Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash tests, securing top scores in major frontal and side impact evaluations. However, it received a less favorable rating in one particular frontal crash test, suggesting room for improvement in this specific area.
Alt text: Side profile of the Honda Prologue Elite electric SUV in a driving scene, emphasizing its sleek design and SUV proportions.
The Honda Prologue Elite enters the market with a starting price of $59,350, inclusive of shipping. The base Prologue model offers a more accessible entry point at $48,850, also including shipping costs.
In conclusion, the Prologue Elite presents itself as an enjoyable and surprisingly luxurious electric SUV. Prospective buyers should be prepared for the realities of EV charging costs, particularly when relying on public charging infrastructure. The Honda Prologue Elite represents a significant step for Honda into the electric SUV arena, blending familiar driving dynamics with the burgeoning EV technology landscape.
