NEW HONDA SUPER-N – SMALL CAR, BIG FUN?

Those who mourned the loss of the quirky but desirable Honda E have cause for optimism as Honda has revealed its new Super-N compact EV.  Priced from €22,039/£18,995 the Japanese car maker says it’s aimed to be an uplifting small car experience. Engineered on the lightweight platform of the hugely popular N Series ‘Kei’ car range sold in Japan, the Super-N has a ‘BOOST Mode’, which increases the power output of its compact e-Axle from 47kW to 70kW.

A 0-100kph/62mph time of 10.0 seconds (vs. 14.51 seconds in ‘Normal Mode’) the emphasis is on a fun, responsive and accessible driving in all conditions.  Unlike traditional EV models the Super-N is extremely light, which makes it feel more agile and engaging to drive. Cars don’t necessarily have to be fast to be a fun, and this is what Honda say they have aimed to do with the Super-N. A simulated seven-speed transmission and Honda’s advanced Active Sound Control system generates an engaging engine sound, more akin to driving a combustion engine vehicle.

Powered by a thin and lightweight 29.6kW lithium-ion battery, the Super-N delivers a ‘combined’ range of 206km/128 miles (WLTP). However, in urban driving environments, where the compact and nimble Super-N is likely to spend much of its time, the battery provides a ‘city’ range of 320km/199 miles (WLTP). It can be recharged to 80% using a 50kW DC supply in just 30 minutes.

The car also features the brand’s renowned Honda ‘Magic Seats’ configuration, where they can be folded in multiple ways. As a result, the luggage area is extremely versatile, with a maximum capacity of 162 litres with the rear seats up. In the dive-down configuration, the available space is increased to 967 litres, which is one of the largest in the A-segment.

Bold exterior styling and a distinctive wide stance, flared wheel arches, and aero ducts, make the car a head turner and inside it features bolstered front seats. Both wired and wireless smartphone connectivity, enabled by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and a powerful Bose sound system that has been tuned precisely for the interior’s dimensions and acoustics are also standard. The eight-speaker premium sound set-up features a 20cm subwoofer that has been designed specifically to fit under the Super-N’s boot, for a deep and rich bass response.

Available with a wide range of exterior colours, including the signature Boost Violet Pearl and there is a two-tone finish that includes a contrasting gloss black roof panel and rear spoiler, plus several distinctive body graphic option packs.

Sadly, for European fans, the Super-N is only planned for sale in the UK at the moment.