The urban car market is witnessing a resurgence with the arrival of the Honda Super-N, a compact electric vehicle that offers a unique blend of practicality and excitement. With many major automakers pulling away from small cars due to increased manufacturing costs, Honda's new offering breathes fresh air into the city driving segment. Priced at $26,086, the Super-N aims to provide an accessible and enjoyable option for urban transport.
This model marks a pivotal turn for Honda in its electric vehicle endeavors, which previously saw a shaky start with models like the pricey Honda E and the lackluster e:Ny1 SUV. By returning to its roots, Honda aims to rekindle its reputation, offering a practical yet fun EV that's perfect for congested city environments.
The Super-N draws inspiration from Japan’s kei cars, which have long been a staple of city commuting. With a design inspired by the 1967 Honda N360, the Super-N embodies the spirit of classic micro-cars, while extending its dimensions for international markets. The UK version of the Super-N sports a wider footprint, measuring 141.7 inches in length and 61.9 inches in width (mirrors excluded).
When comparing sizes, the Super-N makes a notable statement against its rivals like the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor T03, both of which are larger. In design, the Super-N flaunts a modern aesthetic that evokes nostalgia, featuring pronounced wheel arches, a sporty front bumper, and a stylish rear spoiler that hints at its performance capabilities.
Honda's engineering team didn’t skimp on performance, enhancing the Super-N with upgraded suspension components and responsive handling characteristics. With a total weight of just 2,418 lb, the vehicle feels nimble and light, ideal for urban maneuvering. Despite its compact design, the interior is surprisingly spacious, complete with Honda’s acclaimed "Magic Seats" that provide versatile storage options.
Drivers sit in well-supported sports seats finished in a stylish mix of eco-friendly materials. However, the abundance of hard plastic on the dashboard does detract slightly from its otherwise modern appeal. Among its tech offerings is a combination of a 7-inch digital display and an infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, although some features are notably absent.
Powering the Super-N is a compact yet effective 25.4 kWh battery, which delivers 63 horsepower under normal operation. However, by activating the Boost mode, drivers can enjoy a temporary surge up to 94 horsepower, transforming the driving experience with engaging sound effects and dynamic feedback. Even though this power output might seem modest, the lively performance manages to create an exhilarating ride.
With a claimed zero to 62 mph time of around 10 seconds, real-world testing indicates these figures can improve, achieving 60 mph in just 8.5 seconds during performance trials. Handling is sharp and responsive, making for an agile driving experience around town.
Standard features on the Super-N include heated seats, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera, among other conveniences. However, the car's driving range does raise some concerns, with a real-world expectation of around 100 miles per charge, depending on driving conditions.
Despite these limitations, the Super-N offers strong competition against similar models in the market like the Renault Twingo and Citroen e-C3, which may have slight advantages in range but lack the extensive features Honda provides. For those seeking a fun and agile second vehicle, this charming EV delivers a refreshing take on urban driving.
