Ah, Honda. Its electric story has so far been more reminiscent of a Mexican afternoon soap opera than a strategically clear path to sustainable mobility. Just think of Honda's Model E – a small electric car that looked like a cute retro toy from the 1980s, drove like a go-kart, but had a range comparable to the average battery-powered toy from a children's store. And on top of that, it was so expensive that many people checked to see if the price was in Japanese yen. This time they're serious: Honda 0 SUV
Then we got the mysterious and exotically named Honda ENY1. On paper, it was more appealing to the masses, but in practice it offered nothing special compared to the many top competitors that currently reign supreme in the electric SUV class. This time, the company is betting on the first in a series of electric models – Honda 0 SUVs.
Well, now the Japanese, apparently under pressure from electric reality, are finally taking action. Honda is announcing seven completely new electric vehicles, the most important of which is certainly the one we are presenting today: Honda 0 SUVsYes, you guessed it right – another electric SUV in a class where they already rule. Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Tesla Model Y.
But beware, the name Zero is not just a result of a lack of imagination (well, maybe a little bit anyway), but symbolizes Honda's brand new electric era, started from scratch. So no cheating by adapting petrol platforms. Bravo Honda, finally!
Honda 0 SUV: Design or how to revive the spirit of the Fiat Multiple (just without the ugly work)
A prototype stands before us Honda Zero SUV, which is said to be about 80 % similar to the final version. They promise us “maximum use of space”, which in automotive parlance means that the car will have a shape that fans of classic elegant lines will probably skip. Well, but in times when the Fiat Multipla is also experiencing a nostalgic revival, who are we to judge.
From the rear, the car has a rather MPV-like shape that promises plenty of space, and the trunk is said to be so useful that you can fit everything you bought at Ikea sales – and probably a wardrobe you never knew you needed. It's just a shame there's no space under the hood – sorry, Tesla Model Y, your frunk will continue to be king.
A particularly clever addition to the trunk: unusual folding tables on the sides to make you look like a real pro at a picnic in front of Hofer's. (Just don't forget the cheese and a glass of wine.)
Honda 0 SUV: cabin space – a Japanese living room on four wheels
And while we think that's all, the Honda really impresses with its interior space. The back seats have the same amount of space as the business class of a Boeing 777. Well, almost. Honda clearly realized that it would have to compete with Tesla, and to the delight of tall drivers, it provided a lot of legroom and headroom. Unfortunately, Honda's ingenious "Magic Seats" will not be there. Ironically, they forgot to include a little electric magic in electric cars, right?
An interior where everything will be digital – whether you like it or not
In the driver's seat, you're greeted by futuristic displays and (surprise!) a lack of physical buttons. It's a shame, because Honda's rotary climate controls were just what we all loved. Well, digital displays are clearly what sells cars in the 21st century. Welcome to the future - arm yourself with a fingerprint wipe!
The yoke-shaped steering wheel, currently found mainly in Tesla and Lexus, is particularly exotic. Honda has not yet confirmed it for the final version, but we expect it to be an option for those who like the Star Trek cockpit look. Also, digital mirrors: they will probably be available at an additional cost - for those who find regular mirrors too retro.
Batteries, range and charging – does Honda keep its promises?
Honda It promises a range of over 300 miles (480 km), which is enough to keep you from wondering if you have a charger close enough every time you leave home. Charging speeds are said to be competitive, but unfortunately without the ultra-fast 800V charging. What did Elon say to that? Ah, yes, “cute.”
Performance and sports version of the Type R – please, Honda?
Rear- or all-wheel drive, around 240 hp in the basic version and the possibility of a more powerful twin-motor version. When asked about a sports version of the Type R, Honda is diplomatically silent – which in the language of the manufacturers means: “If there is enough demand, electric sports entertainment will follow.”
Automated driving, safety and warranty
Of course, the Zero SUV will be equipped with a bunch of assistance systems, semi-autonomous driving and, if all goes according to plan, a five-star Euro NCAP rating. As for the warranty, Honda is still sticking to its traditional three years or 90,000 miles (about 145,000 km), while the batteries will get a more generous 8 years of coverage.
Arrival, price and name
It will hit the roads in the US in 2026, then in Europe around 2027. Price? Competitive. How else. And no, it won't be called the Honda Zero SUV. They're still choosing a name - just please, it's not something like the Honda ENY2 or something similarly abstract.
Conclusion? Honda is finally getting serious about electrification. Will the Zero SUV be enough to win? For now, we remain optimistic – with a bit of cautious Japanese restraint and a pinch of sarcastic humor, of course.
If you've made it this far, you're practically an expert on Honda's electric future. May the future give you a pleasant shock - electric, of course.
