
The Honda Super-N compact EV is now available to order in the UK with a starting price of £18,995.
Honda has had a mixed track record with EVs – the Honda e was a great car, the ‘e:Ny1‘ less so (the name should have set off alarm bells) – but the Super-N sounds interesting to drive. Engineered on the lightweight platform of the popular N Series ‘Kei’ car range sold in Japan, the Super-N takes its inspiration from the legendary 1980’s City Turbo II.
At the heart of the Super-N’s driving experience is ‘BOOST Mode’, which increases the power output of its compact e-Axle from 47kW to 70kW, delivering a 0-62 mph time of 10.0 seconds (compared to 14.5 seconds in ‘Normal Mode’). As with the City Turbo II, the emphasis is on a fun, responsive and accessible driving experience in all environments, from city streets to the open road. Unlike traditional EV models the Super-N is extremely light, which makes it feel more agile and engaging to drive, just like the City Turbo II.
Powered by a thin and lightweight 29.6kW lithium-ion battery, the Super-N weighs just 1,097kg and delivers a ‘combined’ range of 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 199 miles (WLTP). It can be recharged to 80% using a 50kW DC supply in just 30 minutes.
Despite measuring just 3,599mm in length and 1,573mm wide, the Super-N provides enough space for four adults. It also features the brand’s 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.
When combined with a unique simulated seven-speed transmission and an advanced Active Sound Control system that generates an engaging engine sound, Honda says that the Super-N provides the instant response of an EV with the strong emotional connection of driving a combustion engine vehicle.
Also included as standard is a powerful Bose sound system that has been tuned precisely for the interior’s dimensions and acoustics.
The Super-N is available with a wide range of exterior colours, including the signature Boost Violet Pearl that Honda says is inspired by the electrical intensity of a bolt of lightning. There’s also a two-tone finish that includes a contrasting gloss black roof panel and rear spoiler, plus several distinctive body graphic option packs.