The electric vehicle landscape is often criticised for being a bit too serious, but Honda is about to inject some much-needed soul into the segment. Meet the Honda Super-N: a compact, punchy, and unashamedly fun EV that is set to arrive on British shores this summer.
Created to transform everyday mobility with an exciting and uplifting small car experience, the Super-N promises to transcend convention for a compact EV. It blends dynamic performance with unique driving technology that embodies Honda’s long-standing commitment to the ‘joy of driving’.
Built on a Philosophy of Performance
Following the company’s ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ (M/M) development approach, the vehicle has been engineered to ensure its technology and design serves the needs of the driver and passengers first. This isn’t just a gadget on wheels; it is a driver-centric machine.
Engineered on the lightweight platform of the advanced N Series ‘Kei’ car range sold in Japan, the Super-N takes its inspiration from the legendary 1980s City Turbo II. With entertaining handling, an eye-catching exterior, and an infectious sense of fun, Honda’s latest model is set to redefine what is possible for a small EV in the UK.
Striking Design with a Retro Soul
The first thing you notice about the Super-N is its presence. It features a striking exterior design typified by its distinctive wide stance, larger bumpers, and eye-catching aero ducts. These elements aren’t just for show; they create a sense of anticipation for the dynamic driving performance that lies beneath the bodywork.
Inside, the cabin is a nod to Honda’s heritage. The interior benefits from distinctive blue highlights that pay homage to the original City Turbo II. It also features enhanced seats that have been carefully designed for greater support and comfort during spirited drives.
At night, ambient lighting bathes the dashboard in a cool blue light. However, in a touch of theatre, this shifts to a rich purple the moment you engage the car’s most exciting feature: BOOST Mode.
Unleashing the ‘Joy of Driving’ with BOOST Mode
Key to the car’s thrilling experience is the innovative ‘BOOST Mode’. At the touch of a button, the power output of the compact e-Axle increases from 47kW to 70kW, fully unleashing the vehicle’s performance potential.
As one of the lightest EVs in Europe, this low weight contributes to engaging driving dynamics that feel nimble and responsive. To bridge the gap between electric efficiency and mechanical soul, Honda has included:
- Simulated Seven-Speed Transmission: Replicating the feel of a traditional gearbox.
- Active Sound Control: Generating an engaging engine sound to provide a strong emotional connection.
- Tailored Calibration: Extensive testing on various road surfaces in both Japan and the UK ensures the suspension is perfectly tuned for British B-roads.
Practicality Meets Accessibility
Despite its focus on exhilaration, the Super-N remains a sensible choice for the modern commuter. Michael Doyle, Head of Automobile at Honda UK, noted that the model “retains all the traditional Honda values of practicality, efficiency and everyday ease-of-use.”
The range is ideally suited to urban life, offering a city-mode driving range of 199 miles and a combined range of 128 miles. Whether it is the daily commute or a weekend adventure outside the city, the Super-N provides the freedom to explore without the bulk of a traditional SUV.
Pricing and Customisation
Perhaps the most exciting news for UK drivers is the price point. The Honda Super-N will be available in the UK from July with a starting price of under £20,000*, making it one of the most accessible ways to enter the world of electric motoring.
Customers can truly make the car their own with a wide range of exterior colours and customisation options. This includes a two-tone specification featuring a contrasting gloss black finish for the roof panel and rear spoiler, alongside a variety of distinctive body graphics.
The Honda Super-N is more than just a new model; it is a statement that the electric future can be just as “tsukai” (thrilling) as the past.
*Pricing correct at time of writing.
