Honda e

FORECOURT HONDA E

Honda’s new e might look the part but does it drive as a fully fledged EV should? Jack Evans finds out.

WHAT IS IT?

It’s what the Japanese manufacturer calls an ‘urban-commuter’ car, designed for those who are undertaking regular, but shorter journeys.

WHAT’S NEW?

The Honda e is a completely new thing. You’ll find no platform sharing here, with the e underpinned by a bespoke platform. The e sends power to the rear wheels, freeing up space in the cabin and allowing for a much smaller turning circle.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

The Honda e uses an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery. It takes just 31 minutes to complete a full charge via a 50kWh CCS fast charger, or 4.1 hours when using a standard AC home wallbox, and 18.8 hours via a three-pin plug.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

It’s superb in urban environments. The acceleration is zippy and ideal for darting in and out of spaces, while the button-small turning circle makes U-turns an absolute breeze. Out on the motorway it’s hushed and refined, and the single-pedal driving system means you rarely need go near the brake, as the regenerative system slows the car down.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

With the e’s cutesy styling, Honda has nailed the tie-up between futuristic and retro. The way the front lights mirror the rear ones, the shortness of the overhangs, and the rounded, ‘bubble’ nature of the way the e looks makes it a real head-turner.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The cabin has been executed extremely well and the general standard of fit and finish is very good indeed, with wood trim pieces blending well with the high-tech elements. Space in the rear isn’t bad, but because of the battery at the back the boot is quite small – at 171 litres it’s enough for a weekly shop but it won’t take a family’s luggage.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

The e practically bristles with tech. The main infotainment setup, for instance, combines two 12.3-inch high-definition screens in the middle of the dash; in total, there are five screens where you can access various information. It also boasts side camera mirror systems, displayed via a screen inside the car and on either side.

WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK?

Autocar called the e ‘an eminently likeable and capable small car with good dynamics but a limited range and an ambitious price’.

THE KNOWLEDGE Honda e Advanced

Price (as tested): £29,160 Engine: 113kW electric motor

linked to 35.5kWh battery

Power: 113kW (151bhp) Torque: 315Nm Max speed: 100mph 0-60mph: 7.8 seconds Range: 125 miles Emissions: 0g/km CO2

TARGET BUYERS:

Those who want an electric car with a genuine amount of charm and character.

THE RIVALS:

Mini Electric, Renault Zoe, Volkswagen e-Up!.

KEY SELLING POINTS:

1. Great design. 2. Cutting-edge interior. 3.Nimble handling.

DEAL CLINCHER: The Honda e might be more expensive than rivals but it’s a whole lot more exciting too.

Interior

Wood trim looks great with the high-tech elements and the fit and finish are very good, too.