The automotive world loves a nod to heritage, and Honda beautifully executes this with the Honda N-One kei car. Unfortunately for drivers outside Japan, this charming vehicle remains a domestic delight. However, thanks to guest writer David Lovett’s experience in Japan, we bring you a test drive review of this unique car.
The original Honda N360 is undeniably appealing. Its 36 horsepower, 360cc air-cooled inline-twin engine possesses an endearing quality that’s hard to resist. Weighing a mere 475 kilograms (1045 lbs), this kei car delivered a surprisingly peppy performance. It stands as a legend among 360cc kei jidosha, alongside icons like the Suzuki Fronte Coupe, Subaru R2 SS, and Mitsubishi Minica Skipper.
Honda N360, a classic kei car, inspiring the modern N-One
Honda seemed to share this sentiment, hinting at retro-inspired comebacks with concepts like the EV-N. These concepts paved the way for a production-ready design, culminating in the launch of the all-new Honda N-One on November 1st.
Front view of the Honda N-One Premium 2WD model, showcasing its retro-inspired design
Curiosity piqued, a test drive of this retro N360 was essential. A visit to the local Honda dealer led to an exceptionally pleasant experience, receiving the keys to the N-One Premium 2WD model featured here.
Side profile of the Honda N-One, highlighting its long wheelbase and wheels pushed to the corners
Initial impressions are overwhelmingly positive – it’s undeniably cute. However, the front end presents a minor visual quirk. A small gap between the hood and the black grille serves as an air intake, feeding a duct to the 660cc turbocharged inline-three’s intercooler. This design element gives the slightly misleading impression that the hood is perpetually ajar.
Close-up of the Honda N-One's front grille and hood, showing the air intake gap
Beyond this, the N-One’s aesthetics are captivating. The long wheelbase, with wheels positioned at the extreme corners, contributes to its distinctive stance. The square-element brake lights are beautifully crafted, and a smart safety feature makes them flicker under hard braking to alert drivers behind.
Rear brake lights of the Honda N-One, featuring square elements and flickering function
Stepping inside reveals a minimalist interior, echoing classic car designs. The standout feature is the almost bench-like front seat, creating a retro and spacious feel. A wide armrest folds down between the front seats, comfortably accommodating both driver and passenger.
Interior of the Honda N-One, showing the bench-style front seat and minimalist design
The interior space is surprisingly generous. Even for a full-sized adult, the N-One offers comfortable driving dimensions. Remarkably, the rear seats mirror this spaciousness, even with the front seats fully pushed back. Honda designed the interior to accommodate four 95th percentile American males, or individuals up to 190 centimeters (six feet one inch) tall, according to the dealership representative.
Spacious rear seats of the Honda N-One, comfortable even for tall passengers
The dashboard maintains a simple and uncluttered layout, with easily readable gauges. Infotainment is available, allowing smartphone connection via USB for music and navigation display. This seamless integration is a genuinely intelligent touch.
Dashboard of the Honda N-One with infotainment screen and simple gauge layout
On the road, the N-One impresses with its visibility. The elevated seating position offers a commanding view, complemented by a wide windshield and surprisingly slender A-pillars, achieved through the use of high-tensile strength steel. Despite weighing around 900kg (1,985 lbs), nearly double the original N360, the N-One feels remarkably light and agile.
Engine bay of the Honda N-One, showcasing the turbocharged inline-three engine
The test model featured the turbocharged engine variant, though a naturally aspirated option is also available. Both are DOHC three-cylinder engines, with the turbo version producing a kei-regulation-limited 64 horsepower and the naturally aspirated version offering a still respectable 58 horsepower. The turbo engine delivers ample torque, making the car feel genuinely quick. Turbo boost arrives almost instantly upon pedal input, resulting in acceleration that surpasses many full-size one-liter cars. However, it’s paired exclusively with a CVT transmission.
Honda N-One paddle shifters behind the steering wheel for simulated gear changes
This CVT is a significant drawback for driving enthusiasts. A manual transmission would undoubtedly amplify the fun factor of this car. Paddle shifters and simulated gears offer a degree of engagement, but they can’t replicate the satisfaction of a clutch pedal and the tactile engagement of shifting gears manually.
Steering column of the Honda N-One, with electrically assisted power steering
The electric power steering, while understandable given the engine bay’s density, effectively mimics hydraulic assist. It’s solid and stable at higher speeds and light enough for effortless parking, though not exceptionally communicative.
Trunk space of the Honda N-One, demonstrating its practicality for a kei car
The extended wheelbase, thanks to the wheels-at-corners design, imparts excellent stability and contributes to a surprisingly spacious trunk for a kei car. To put it in perspective, the N-One’s wheelbase measures 2,520mm, while the larger Toyota Corolla’s is only slightly longer at 2,600mm. Unlike many kei cars that can feel unstable at highway speeds, the N-One’s wheelbase and power allow for comfortable cruising at 120kph (75mph), comparable to larger vehicles like the Corolla or Nissan Versa.
Honda N-One configurator interface, inviting users to build their own model online
Overall, the Honda N-One is an exceptional kei car. While many in its class can feel cheaply constructed, the N-One exudes a sense of quality. This premium feel is reflected in the price, with the test model costing ¥1,400,000 (approximately $17,000 USD). The non-turbo 2WD G Model starts at ¥1,150,000, while the top-spec turbo 4WD Premium Tourer L Package reaches ¥1,791,950. A personally configured, well-equipped model can be had for around ¥1,230,000, representing excellent value for such a well-rounded new car. You can even build your own N-One online to explore the options.
Honda N-One in two-tone Premium model, showcasing its stylish color options and design
The N-One’s appeal is evident in its strong sales, outstripping Honda’s production capacity. Waiting times can stretch to two months for the base G model and an astonishing ten months for the sought-after two-tone Premium model.
Honda N-One and Honda N360 side-by-side, comparing the modern and classic kei cars
Is the Honda N-One a worthy successor to the N360? The answer is a resounding yes, with the caveat of the missing manual transmission. While there’s hope for a manual version in the future, for now, purists might find themselves drawn to the charm of a well-preserved original N360, offering similar fuel economy in an even smaller, lighter, and incredibly fun package.
