The electric vehicle market has witnessed significant evolution in recent years, with pricing being a pivotal factor in adoption. For instance, the Honda E, a compact EV launched in 2020, was eventually discontinued in 2023 at a price point of approximately £38,000. This figure, often considered “comically priced” for its segment, placed it directly against larger, more established alternatives, inevitably leading to its commercial struggles.
In contrast, the arrival of the new Honda Super-N in the UK market is marked by a distinctly different strategic approach, beginning at a much more accessible £18,995. This aggressive pricing, as highlighted in the accompanying video review, positions the Super-N as a compelling entry in the urban EV segment. This article expands upon the key insights from the video, delving deeper into the Super-N’s design philosophy, technical specifications, driving dynamics, and overall market proposition, considering its potential to redefine expectations for affordable city EVs.
1. The K-Car Foundation: A Legacy of Compact Innovation
The Honda Super-N’s distinctive diminutive stature is directly inherited from its Japanese K-car origins, specifically the Honda N-ONE. K-cars, or “Kei cars,” are a unique category of small vehicles in Japan, designed to comply with strict dimensional and engine capacity regulations to qualify for various tax breaks and insurance benefits. To be eligible, these vehicles traditionally cannot exceed 3.4 meters in length, 1.48 meters in width, and 2 meters in height, with engine displacements capped at 660cc.
While the European Honda Super-N undergoes modifications, primarily chunkier bumpers, which extend its length to just under 3.6 meters, it technically no longer qualifies as a K-car by Japanese standards. However, the engineering principles and design ethos of maximizing interior space within a minimal footprint are profoundly evident. This design choice aims to offer exceptional maneuverability and parking ease, crucial attributes for urban environments where space is at a premium. The Super-N’s compact dimensions, being shorter than a Fiat 500e or a Leapmotor T03, firmly establish it as one of the smallest proper cars available, placing it in a league with quadricycles like the Citroen Ami only if one seeks anything smaller.
Styling Cues: A Blend of Retro and Modernity
A significant aspect of the Super-N’s appeal lies in its retro-inspired aesthetics, which draw from several iconic Honda models. The large round lights and distinctive corona-style daytime running light signature are directly reminiscent of the Honda E. Similarly, the dark grey or black nose panel contributes to a unified design language that nods to its electric predecessor.
Conversely, the rear end of the Super-N pays homage to the Honda N360, a K-car from the 1960s, offering a sense of historical continuity. Further retro elements include the flared wheel arches and chunky bumpers, which are inspired by the Honda City Turbo II from the 1980s. This deliberate blend of styling elements, while not a direct re-make like some rivals, creates a strong and desirable retro vibe. The standard Boost Violet Pearl paint, inspired by the intensity of lightning, offers a striking contemporary touch, with alternative colors such as white, black, blue, or grey available at an additional cost of £675. A contrasting gloss black roof and rear spoiler are also offered for £300, allowing for further personalization.
2. Power, Practicality, and the Urban Drive Experience
The Super-N is clearly designed with urban utility in mind, a critical factor given its modest range and performance figures. Its official range is stated at 128 miles, a figure that, while slightly surpassing an entry-level Fiat 500e, trails behind many competitors like the Leapmotor T03, BYD Dolphin Surf, and the Renault Twingo, which can achieve up to 163 miles. For instance, a real-world range during winter conditions is projected to be around 70 miles, underscoring its role as a city-centric vehicle. However, for drivers whose commutes are predominantly within urban or suburban areas, and who have access to a second vehicle for longer journeys, this range limitation may not be a significant impediment.
Charging Infrastructure and Battery Capacity
Public charging capabilities for the Super-N include a maximum DC charging rate of 50 kilowatts. With its relatively small battery, possessing a gross capacity of 29.6 kilowatt-hours (usable capacity yet to be officially disclosed), a 10% to 80% charge can be achieved in approximately 30 minutes. This charging time, although seemingly efficient, only translates to around 90 miles of added range according to official figures, and even less in real-world scenarios. The placement of the charging port on the vehicle’s nose is a design choice that garners mixed opinions among EV users, balancing convenience in some parking situations with potential awkwardness in others.
Interior Space and Functional Design
Despite its exterior compactness, the Super-N incorporates several clever design features aimed at maximizing interior practicality. While the boot space is a modest 162 liters, accommodating only two carry-on suitcases, the vehicle compensates with Honda’s renowned “magic seats.” This innovative system allows the rear seat bases to fold forward and lower, creating a completely flat extended load bay free of steps or inclines. Alternatively, the rear seat bases can be flipped upwards, similar to the Honda Jazz, providing a tall, open floor area ideal for transporting items such as potted plants or even a small child’s bike, assuming no rear passengers are present.
Occupant comfort is also carefully considered. Despite the presenter’s height of six feet one inch, the rear cabin provides surprising legroom, with a completely flat floor enhancing passenger comfort. While headroom is noted as tight when sitting upright, the ability to recline the seat back slightly and raise the headrest offers a modicum of improvement. In the front cabin, headroom is ample, though elbow room is somewhat limited due to the car’s narrow profile. Tall, upright side windows contribute to an airy feel, mitigating any potential sense of claustrophobia. The driving position, however, is impacted by the steering wheel’s lack of reach adjustment, a consideration that prospective buyers are advised to verify for personal comfort.
3. Driving Dynamics: Agility Meets Unexpected Engagement
The Honda Super-N’s driving experience is largely tailored for city and suburban environments, where its strengths are most evident. Ride comfort is notably impressive for a car of its size and short wheelbase, effectively smoothing out poorly surfaced roads. Maneuverability is generally good, though the turning circle is not as tight as some competitors, such as the Renault 5 or Fiat 500e, which may necessitate more three-point turns in confined spaces.
Performance and the Boost Mode
Under normal driving conditions, the Super-N delivers 63 brake horsepower, resulting in a 0 to 62 mph acceleration time of 14.5 seconds. This provides adequate responsiveness for urban traffic. For moments requiring more urgency, a “Boost Mode” button on the steering wheel unleashes 94 brake horsepower, reducing the 0 to 62 mph time to a more sprightly 10 seconds. This feature transforms the driving character, adding a layer of fun for those occasional bursts of speed.
An innovative aspect of the Super-N’s driving dynamics is its simulated gear shifts, accessed by holding down the left-hand paddle. Drawing inspiration from models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, this system provides convincing jolts during up and down shifts, even allowing for a simulated rev limiter. While the accompanying petrol engine soundtrack could benefit from further refinement to enhance realism, the feature undoubtedly contributes to a more interactive and engaging driving experience.
The Super-N’s handling characteristics are also commendable. The steering, while a bit slower than desired, is nicely weighted and provides a good sense of connection to the front wheels. Grip from the standard Yokohama tires is surprisingly strong, and the brake pedal offers a well-judged, consistent feel, avoiding the grabby nature sometimes found in other EVs. These elements combine to deliver a driving experience that is both competent and unexpectedly rewarding for a compact city car.
4. Interior Technology, Quality, and Value Proposition
Inside, the Honda Super-N balances expected practicality with some premium touches. While hard plastics are prevalent on the dashboard and some components like door pulls and the center console exhibit minor wobble, the leather-trimmed steering wheel feels pleasant to hold. Buttons, including those for the air conditioning, are solid and tactile. The gear selector controls are borrowed directly from the more premium Honda Civic, lending a touch of quality to frequently used interfaces.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system is shared with other Honda models, benefiting from improved graphics and standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. While acknowledged as not being the most advanced system compared to rivals such as the Google-based system in the Renault Twingo, its functionality is deemed acceptable, particularly for users who primarily rely on smartphone mirroring. The inclusion of an 8-speaker Bose sound system, complete with a subwoofer under the boot floor, is a significant highlight, delivering excellent audio quality for its class.
Despite its compact dimensions, the Super-N offers commendable interior storage. Beyond a single central cup holder, another is conveniently placed behind the steering wheel. Door pockets can accommodate 500ml bottles, and shallow ledges on the center console and dashboard provide practical spaces for wallets and phones. A small pocket on the door is also useful for coins or small items, ensuring good usability for daily essentials.
Market Positioning and Ownership Benefits
The Honda Super-N’s starting price of £18,995 is a crucial differentiator, setting it apart from the costly Honda E and positioning it competitively against rivals. It is more affordable than any Fiat 500e and only marginally more expensive than an entry-level BYD Dolphin Surf. This aggressive pricing strategy, coupled with a generous equipment list, makes the Super-N a highly attractive proposition in the compact EV segment.
Standard features across the single trim level include the 8-speaker Bose stereo, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, keyless entry, and automatic air conditioning, offering significant value. Ownership is further bolstered by an 8-year service-activated warranty that covers not only the battery but also most other components. For those considering finance, a tempting 2.9% APR PCP deal is offered, allowing a new Honda Super-N to be driven for £199 a month over four years with a £2,999 deposit and a 6,000-mile annual mileage limit. This overall package, encompassing design, features, and an accessible price point, positions the Honda Super-N as a highly desirable and fun-to-drive retro EV poised to make a significant impact on the urban mobility landscape.
Honda Super-N Q&A: We’ve Driven It, Now Ask Us Anything
What is the Honda Super-N?
The Honda Super-N is a new electric city car from Honda, featuring a retro-inspired design and an affordable price point for urban drivers.
How much does the Honda Super-N cost?
The new Honda Super-N starts at an accessible price of £18,995 in the UK market.
What is the driving range of the Honda Super-N?
Its official range is stated at 128 miles, but it is primarily designed for city driving where its real-world range in winter might be around 70 miles.
What is a ‘K-car’ and how does it influence the Super-N?
K-cars, or ‘Kei cars,’ are a category of very small vehicles from Japan, known for their compact size and maneuverability. The Honda Super-N inherits its diminutive stature and design principles from these origins, making it ideal for urban environments.
What unique features does the Honda Super-N offer?
Despite its compact size, it offers features like ‘magic seats’ for flexible cargo space, a ‘Boost Mode’ for extra power, and standard amenities like an 8-speaker Bose sound system and heated front seats.
