I took a break from the VO booth last month to head upstate with my friends at Honda Motor Company to explore the Hudson Valley in their star studded 2024 lineup of electric vehicles. This was my first time exploring fall foliage season in upstate where the changing of the leaves is quite possibly one of the most spectacular views you can find in New York state, outside of the iconic city itself obviously. We set out from the city and journeyed northwest through New Jersey and Poughkeepsie before landing in the charming town of Accord.
Surrounded by rolling hills, creeks, and roadside apple orchards, it was the perfect backdrop for our trip. Honda’s adventures always come with delightful surprises, and this was no exception. I started the journey in the 2024 all-electric Honda Prologue (below), complete with its expansive sunroof that let in crisp autumn air and warm sunlight. This EV is making waves. Rolling into dealerships since late April, the Prologue lineup kicks off with the Prologue EX, starting at $47,400 (plus $1,395 destination charge), and eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit if built after February 26, 2024. Built on a cutting-edge electric vehicle platform with multi-link front and rear suspensions finely tuned by Honda’s engineers, the Prologue delivers a sporty and refined driving experience that’s hard to beat.
A quick rundown on the impressive 2024 Honda Prologue:
Honda has packed this SUV with features that cater to both tech lovers and comfort seekers. Think Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, dual-zone climate control, and Sirius XM satellite radio—all standard. Plus, with a best-in-class EPA range of 296 miles, range anxiety is officially a thing of the past. And when it’s time to juice up, Honda has you covered with access to major public fast-charging networks like EVgo and Electrify America, and more to come. See what the auto brand has in store for all things EV. What I appreciated most was the Prologue’s commanding driveability and how it handled the challenge of those winding, often two-laned roads in Hudson Valley. The Prologue elevated the entire experience from eco-friendly to unforgettable.
Motocompacto all-electric scooter enters the EV chat…
We took a break to explore one of the many trails that line the valley to give the new MotoCompacto a run. A fresh take on e-scooters that was inspired by the Honda Motocompo of the early ’80s, the all-new Honda Motocompacto redefines affordable all-electric personal transportation with sleek and simple styling and an innovative, ultra-compact foldable design. Sales will begin exclusively at Motocompacto.honda.com and at Honda and Acura automobile dealers in November with an MSRP of just $995.
Fun-to-ride “first and last mile” solution designed for the new realities of urban mobility with zero-emissions range up to 12 milesUltra-compact design becomes its own lightweight, compact and stackable carrying case.
Click here to see my testdrive.
Where we stayed in the Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley offers a variety of lodging options for every budget, but the Inness Hotel in Accord, NY stood out as a true gem. With its luxurious lodges, on-site dining, all overlooking rolling hills— it’s the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. I especially loved the charming pet friendly rooms with unique fireplaces, evening scotch and smores at the restaurant and a serene spa so divine, you’ll want to stay an extra few nights. It’s no wonder Manhattenites often escape here for weekend getaways. It’s truly a fabulous escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
and other all-electric models also came along for the ride..
Not to be outdone by the Prologue, Civic hybrid and the Acura ZDX also joined in on the roadside fun as a part of this experience. As an auto enthusiast who’s had the chance to test the 2024 Acura ZDX, I can say this SUV is a standout. Designed at the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles, the ZDX flaunts a modern front fascia, complete with Chicane DRLs, Jewel Eye LED headlights, and an illuminated Diamond Pentagon grille with a 3D-embossed pattern. It’s truly eye-catching from every angle. Acura’s commitment to the sound experience is unmatched and can be heard in all of their vehicles in part due to. their collaboration with audio great Bang & Olufsen premium audio, with a custom-engineered new system that delivers a powerful and immersive listening experience. You can learn more about the ZDX Type S here.
Taking the all-electric lineup for a spin in the Hudson Valley
Honda’s commitment to a greener future is impressive. Their “Triple Action to Zero” strategy aims for carbon neutrality across products and corporate activities by 2050, along with 100% use of renewable energy and sustainable materials. By 2040, Honda plans for battery-electric and fuel cell vehicles to make up 100% of auto sales in the U.S. and globally—a goal that aligns with the company’s long-standing dedication to environmental responsibility.
The excitement of driving the Prologue
to leisurely moments at Inness, this journey was a memorable blend of adventure, luxury, and sustainability. Honda’s latest innovations prove that going electric doesn’t mean compromising on style or performance—it’s a win for everyone, including the planet.
Disclaimer: I was invited by the Honda Motor Company to attend a press trip previewing their lineup of all-electric vehicles. Some of the information gathered from the auto brand is included in this post. However all opinions on the trip and driving experience are my own.