Honda e: The Electric Gem South Africa Missed Out On

South African car enthusiasts, buckle up for the latest in our series, “Cars We Don’t Get in South Africa.” This time, it’s the Honda e – an electric marvel that blends retro flair with futuristic tech.

Compact, Yet Packed with Personality

Imagine a car that’s small enough for city streets but big on character. The Honda e nails it with its 35.5 kWh battery and compact five-door hatch design, styled to look like a mini throwback to the first-generation Civic. It’s the kind of car that turns heads – and not just because it’s electric. With its unique blend of classic and modern styling cues, it’s an unmistakable sight on the road.

Zippy Urban Performance

The Honda e’s rear-wheel-drive layout and compact size make it a joy to drive, especially in tight urban spaces. Don’t let its friendly face fool you; this car is quick on its wheels. It offers two power options, with up to 113 kW of power and 315 Nm of instant torque, pushing it from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds. Perfect for zipping through city traffic, this little EV knows how to make daily commutes fun and efficient.

Clever Tech Inside

Step inside the Honda e, and you’re met with an impressive tech showcase. The dashboard spans the entire width of the car, featuring five screens, including dual 12.3” infotainment displays, and even camera-based side mirrors for a unique, futuristic look. With Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as a voice-activated assistant, this car is as connected as they come. And, let’s not forget – the turning radius is nimble enough to rival a London taxi, making parking a breeze.

Retro Style, Modern Appeal

The Honda e's design nods to Honda’s heritage, echoing the charm of the original Civic. It’s compact, friendly, and has a charging port right on the bonnet. Available in vibrant colors and flush door handles, it’s a true conversation piece that combines nostalgia with forward-thinking design.

The Harsh Reality

While Europe and Japan enjoyed this quirky electric gem, the Honda e never made it to South Africa. Its steep starting price and limited range (about 220 km on a single charge) may have kept it off our roads, but it remains a unique take on the EV – efficient, loaded with personality, and perfectly designed for city life.

So here’s to the Honda e, a small but mighty electric icon we’ll have to admire from afar. Stay tuned as we continue to explore “Cars We Don’t Get in South Africa,” bringing you the incredible models the rest of the world enjoys that we, unfortunately, do not.