An updated version of Honda’s popular and adorable premium super-compact, the N-One, went on sale in Japan on Friday.
Unlike traditional mid-generational refreshes, the N-One’s does not come with a facelift. That’s because the car trades primarily on its exterior design, a throwback to the 1967 Honda N360. The retro body shares Honda’s N-series kei car platform, which also underpins the more conventional N-Wgn and the high-roof N-Box. Instead, the N-One’s update adds more safety features, better fuel economy, and mod cons.
The new N-One adopts Honda’s City-Brake Active System, basically a rear-end collision warning that alerts drivers to an impending crash. If the driver fails to respond, brakes are automatically applied. The system also controls engine output to prevent unintended acceleration if the driver mashes the go pedal while there’s obstacle within four meters of the front of the car. Side curtain airbags are also now standard.
The city car now also gets 67 mpg, thanks to reduced friction and improved thermal efficiency from its 660cc DOHC three-cylinder. Output is still capped at 67hp per kei car standards, and the engine is mated to a CVT on both front- and all-wheel-drive models. Curb weight ranges from 1,852 to 2,028 lbs depending on options.
The glass now boasts both UV and infrared blocking technology, the latter to reduce heat transferred into the cabin by sunlight. Sharp Electronics’ Plasmacluster air filtering system, which claims to reduce allergens and sterilizes mold, is now standard as well.
Lastly, two new colors, Fresh Lime Metallic (available with an optional white roof) and Horizon Turquoise Pearl (available with an optional silver roof), are now available, bringing the color combo count to 25. Sadly, Honda has no plans to export this stylish city runabout to the US.
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