Honda N-1: the rival to the Fiat 500 from Japan

When the Honda N-1 makes its debut on the Japanese market this autumn, it will mark a sort of return of the brand to its roots, especially to those models from its early years such as the S500, the first car the Japanese brand produced, in 1963.

The rendered images of the N-1 come from a brochure that Honda is distributing to all its customers, so they are not entirely clear. But it can be seen that the N-1 concept is based on a three-door version of what was originally the N-Box, as well as the EV-N Concept shown at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. Today, the N-1 has abandoned electric propulsion in favour of a better option.

This small Honda will feature a 660 cc three-cylinder engine that will be available with or without a turbo, together with a CVT gearbox and front-wheel drive. This powertrain will be exclusive to the Japanese market, where it is planned to sell almost 300,000 units.

As for the possibility of the N-1 reaching Europe, nothing has been mentioned, although it would be a respectable rival to the Fiat 500 and an interesting option if it arrives as a low-cost car, even though Honda does not exactly stand out for selling cars with overly affordable prices on the old continent. Will it be time for the Japanese to start seeing Kei cars as interesting candidates for the rest of the world?

Via | Autoblog Netherlands