There’s a quiet rebellion happening in the world of electric vehicles, and Honda’s Super-N arrives as its most cheerful instigator yet. At a time when efficiency and restraint often dominate the EV conversation, this compact newcomer leans unapologetically into character, nostalgia and driving joy, all while remaining resolutely practical.
Drawing inspiration from the cult-favourite City Turbo II of the 1980s, the Super-N wears its heritage with confidence rather than costume. Its wide stance, pronounced bumpers and purposeful aero detailing don’t simply echo the past, they reinterpret it through a modern electric lens. The result is a small car that feels alive before it even moves, the kind of design that seems to wink at you in a parking lot.
Underneath that personality sits a lightweight platform derived from Honda’s N Series kei cars, engineered with a clear philosophy in mind: maximise space for people, minimise intrusion from machinery. It’s a principle that manifests not only in packaging efficiency but in the way the car prioritises the human experience. The cabin is thoughtfully composed, with supportive seating and subtle blue accents that nod to its lineage without slipping into nostalgia overload. At night, ambient lighting shifts mood with intent, deepening to a rich purple when the car’s more spirited side is summoned.
That spirit is most evident in BOOST Mode, a feature that transforms the Super-N from an efficient city companion into something far more animated. Power from the compact e-Axle rises from 47kW to 70kW, but the numbers only tell part of the story. Honda has layered in a simulated seven-speed transmission and an Active Sound Control system, creating a tactile and audible experience that bridges the emotional gap often associated with electric driving. It’s not about imitation for its own sake, but about restoring a sense of rhythm and engagement that drivers instinctively understand.
The engineering effort behind this experience runs deeper than software theatrics. Honda’s chassis and suspension tuning have been refined across diverse road conditions in both Japan and the UK, ensuring that the Super-N feels composed yet playful in equal measure. Its low weight becomes an ally here, allowing for agility that feels increasingly rare in the EV space.
Range, of course, remains central to everyday usability. With up to 199 miles achievable in city conditions and a combined range of 128 miles, the Super-N is clearly tailored for urban life and the rhythms of daily commuting. It’s not chasing long-distance dominance but instead focusing on relevance, delivering exactly what most drivers need while encouraging them to enjoy the journey rather than simply endure it.
Customisation plays a key role in reinforcing the car’s expressive nature. Buyers can explore a wide palette of colours and finishes, including striking two-tone options with contrasting black roof panels and spoilers. The intention is clear: this is not just a means of transport, but an extension of personality.
Set to arrive in the UK from July with a starting price below £20,000, the Super-N positions itself as an accessible entry point into electric mobility without sacrificing individuality. It challenges the notion that affordability must come at the expense of excitement, offering instead a compelling reminder that even the smallest cars can deliver big emotions.
In a segment often defined by restraint, the Honda Super-N feels like a spark. Not loud or overwhelming, but bright enough to change the atmosphere. It suggests that the future of urban mobility doesn’t have to be sterile or subdued. It can be playful, expressive and, above all, genuinely fun.
