Honda Is Already Retiring Its First Electric SUV
Another EV bites the dust
The Honda Prologue has joined a growing list of EVs that failed to see out their full life cycle as automakers increasingly refocus their efforts on hybrids and gas models. In the U.S., many EVs have seen sales crash over the last three quarters, following the loss of the federal tax credit. It's now been confirmed that the Prologue will go out of production after the 2026 model year, after only being on sale for two years. Its departure will eliminate the sole EV in Honda's range.
An EV That Never Caught Fire
The Honda Prologue was supposed to launch an exciting new EV era for the Japanese brand. But in our first drive, we were underwhelmed by the vehicle, which was too conspicuous as an EV jointly developed with General Motors. It shares a platform with the Chevrolet Blazer EV and many interior bits and pieces are clearly from the GM parts bin. It doesn't accelerate as quickly as most other EVs, nor does it drive with the verve typical of the brand.
Combined with the fact that Prologue sales slid by nearly 50% in the first half of 2026, these issues sealed its fate.
"Honda will conclude sales of the Prologue later this year following completion of the 2026 model year," said a Honda spokesperson to CarBuzz. "Prologue customers will continue to receive full support through our dealer network, including service, parts, and warranty coverage."
Honda Abandons EV Plans
Honda already canceled three planned EVs earlier this year as it backtracked on an aggressive EV rollout. Those models included a Honda-badged sedan and SUV, along with an Acura EV that would've marked the return of the RSX nameplate. The company also scrapped plans to launch the electric Afeela sedan and SUV, a collaboration with Sony.
Lower than expected demand was partly to blame and the company was also spending an extraordinary amount on EV development; it reported its first annual loss due to EV-related projects. Given these challenges, not many are surprised that the Prologue hasn't survived.
Perhaps Honda, which has always promised affordability, should have launched a smaller and cheaper EV in the U.S. market first. The midsize Prologue costs over $50,000 in its top trim but doesn't offer any class-leading attributes at that price point.
What It Means
While the departure of the Prologue will leave Honda without an EV in the U.S., the company is still thriving in other segments. Honda just came off its best June sales month in five years, while the CR-V is currently the best-selling SUV in America. Honda's hybrid models are a hit right now, making up approximately 30% of the brand's sales.
By freeing itself from unprofitable EV projects, Honda can expand its lineup of affordable and fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles-which are the cars consumers actually want. The automaker is planning to release 15 new hybrids globally by 2029. Crucially, this rollout will include larger D-segment hybrids in America, a lucrative segment where Honda currently lacks a competitor.
The Prologue will be remembered as a rare misstep for Honda and yet another victim of unpredictable EV demand.
Related: Honda Plans 15 New Hybrids, Including Larger SUVs For North America
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This story was originally published July 17, 2026 at 7:15 AM.