Is the 2024 Honda Prologue a Competitive First EV in the Mid-Size SUV Segment?

The 2024 Honda Prologue, starting at $48,795, marks the brand's long-awaited entry into the all-electric market. Based on our assessment of its specifications and pricing, it positions itself as a competitive mid-size electric SUV with a key advantage: an estimated 296-mile driving range for the front-wheel-drive model. However, its development partnership with General Motors means it shares its core platform with the Chevrolet Blazer EV.

What Are the 2024 Honda Prologue's Key Specifications and Driving Range?

Built on GM's Ultium electrical architecture—a versatile platform designed for various electric vehicles—the Prologue offers two powertrain choices. The single-motor, front-wheel-drive version produces 212 horsepower and 236 pounds-feet of torque. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system increases output to 288 hp and 333 pounds-feet of torque. Both configurations use an 85-kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack.

Honda estimates the driving range will be up to:

• 296 miles for the front-wheel-drive model.
• 281 miles for AWD models (except the Elite trim).
• 273 miles for the top-tier Elite AWD trim, which features larger 21-inch wheels that slightly reduce efficiency.

It's important to note that these are manufacturer estimates; official EPA figures were not available at the time of writing. For charging, the Prologue supports DC fast charging at up to 150 kW, which can add approximately 65 miles of range in about 10 minutes. Honda offers buyers a choice of three charging packages at no extra cost, including options for home charger installation credits and public charging network credits.

How Does the Honda Prologue Compare to Its Platform-Mate, the Chevrolet Blazer EV?

As a product of a partnership with GM, the Prologue is fundamentally related to the Chevrolet Blazer EV. Our early impressions suggest that while Honda was involved in co-development, the underlying architecture and powertrain are shared. The Prologue can be seen as a reskinned and retuned version of the Blazer EV, with distinct Honda styling inside and out.

The key differentiators will likely be in chassis tuning, interior design philosophy, and the standard feature set. Honda has a reputation for refined ride and handling, which it may have applied to the Prologue. The standard inclusion of the full Honda Sensing suite of safety features across all trims is a significant value proposition.

What Trim Levels Are Available and What Do They Include?

The 2024 Prologue is offered in three main trim levels: EX, Touring, and Elite. All trims come standard with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.

• EX ($48,795): The entry trim includes cloth seats, a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. All-Wheel Drive is a $3,000 option.
• Touring ($53,095): This mid-level trim adds a power liftgate with a kick sensor, leather seating surfaces, and front and rear parking sensors. AWD is again a $3,000 option.
• Elite ($59,295): The top trim comes exclusively with AWD. It features 21-inch wheels, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, additional interior color choices, and a unique Sport driving mode.

What Safety and Driver-Assist Features Come Standard?

Every 2024 Honda Prologue comes standard with the comprehensive Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assist systems. This includes:

• Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Lane Departure Steering Assist and Lane-Centering Steering
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• Driver Attention Monitor
• Low-Speed Traffic Jam Assist

Additional standard safety features include Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with pedestrian detection and automatic braking, as well as Active Blind Spot Assist, which can gently resist a lane change if it detects a vehicle in the blind spot.

In conclusion, the 2024 Honda Prologue enters a crowded market with a compelling blend of estimated range, standard technology, and safety features. For buyers considering an electric SUV, key decision points include:

• Evaluating the value of Honda's brand reputation for reliability against newer EV-focused brands.
• Comparing its real-world driving dynamics and interior quality to the Chevrolet Blazer EV.
• Taking advantage of the no-cost charging package that best suits your home and travel needs.