When you enter your courses on the UC application, you have to list them exactly as listed on your transcript.
Pre-AP is not an option on the drop down.
There are still courses at all High Schools that are labeled “Honors” but not UC approved, and are still considered rigorous for that students level. Unfortunately, it is what it is but I would assume a Pre-AP class would better prepare you to do well in the corresponding AP course Junior and Senior year.
Challenging yourself will not go unrecognized.