Though recently announced for the next-generation Civic, Honda’s new family of turbocharged engines have already made their debut in Japan.
The Honda StepWGN is a compact van (think Mazda5) that has been hugely popular in their home market and other Asian nations. It’s the first model to utilize the global 1.5L turbocharged direct-injection VTEC inline-four, a motor Honda says will provide the power equivalent of a naturally aspirated 2.4L.
However, Honda has yet to release power figures for the new van, but estimates of 177 hp and 42 mpg on the Japanese testing cycle have been rumored.
In addition to being Honda’s first turbocharged minivan, the StepWGN debuts another ingenious feature, what Honda calls the “Waku Gate.” The origami-like rear hatch folds in on itself and opens in several different ways. Using hinges on top, it can lift up completely like a normal minivan hatch. However it’s also split 70/30 down the middle and when in the down position, the larger half opens like a butterfly wing, allowing easy access to the cargo area and third row.
The StepWGN will continue the its three-row seating tradition, as well as its “Magic Sheet” storage under the flat floor. The new StepWGN goes on sale in Japan in late April and there are no plans to bring it stateside.
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