A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.2/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4
Comfort & Interior
4.3
Running Costs
4.1
Practicality
2.8
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Can an electric city car be genuinely desirable rather than just sensible? Honda believes so, and the honda e makes a compelling argument for style over pure practicality. This distinctive urban runabout trades the typical electric car formula of maximum range and efficiency for something more characterful and premium.
What sets the Honda e apart is its commitment to being different. The retro-futuristic design turns heads wherever it goes, while the interior feels more like a high-end tech lounge than a typical small car cabin. Five interconnected screens dominate the dashboard, creating an experience that’s genuinely unique in this class. The rear-wheel drive setup, unusual for a city car, delivers surprisingly engaging handling that makes even short trips enjoyable.
The trade-offs are clear though. Real-world range sits around 130 miles, making this primarily a urban vehicle, while the premium positioning means higher running costs than more practical electric alternatives. The compact dimensions limit passenger and boot space, reinforcing its role as a second car or metropolitan commuter rather than a family hauler.
For drivers who want an electric car with genuine personality and aren’t concerned about covering long distances regularly, the Honda e offers something refreshingly different. It’s proof that going electric doesn’t mean sacrificing character or style for environmental responsibility.
How Does the Honda e Drive?
The Honda e delivers surprisingly engaging performance for an electric city car. The rear mounted electric motor produces 154hp in the standard version, with acceleration that feels brisk around town. Unlike most electric vehicles, the Honda e uses rear wheel drive which gives it a unique character among small electric cars. The low centre of gravity and 50:50 weight distribution create handling that’s genuinely enjoyable on winding roads. Regenerative braking can be adjusted using steering wheel paddles, allowing one pedal driving in most situations. The instant torque delivery makes overtaking effortless, while the quiet operation ensures a serene driving experience. This electric city car proves that eco friendly transport doesn’t have to be boring.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
Single electric motor rear-mounted
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Power Output
154 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.3 seconds
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MPG Combined
131 miles range
- Boot Space
- 171 litres
- Safety Rating
- 5 stars Euro NCAP
- Five interconnected screens, Premium audio, Heated seats
Honda e Interior, Tech & Comfort Review
Step inside the Honda e and you’ll find an interior that feels more premium than most luxury cars. The minimalist design centres around those five interconnected screens, creating a lounge like atmosphere. Front seats offer excellent support with heating as standard, while the driving position is comfortable for longer journeys. Rear passengers get decent space considering the car’s compact dimensions, though taller adults might find headroom limited. The boot is small but adequate for shopping trips and weekend bags. Interior materials feel genuinely upmarket, with soft touch plastics and real wood trim available. Climate control works efficiently without significantly impacting range, while the panoramic glass roof creates an airy feel. Comparing it to the Honda Civic, the e offers a more futuristic and premium interior experience.
The e excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Honda e?
Electric power means the Honda e costs very little to run once you own it. Home charging typically costs around £3 for a full battery, giving roughly 130 miles of real world range. Road tax is currently free for electric vehicles, while company car drivers benefit from minimal benefit in kind tax rates. Insurance sits in reasonable groups considering the car’s performance and technology levels. Servicing costs are lower than petrol equivalents due to fewer moving parts and no oil changes required. However, depreciation can be steep on electric vehicles as technology advances rapidly. For those considering how to find the cheapest car finance deals in the UK, the Honda e’s high list price means monthly payments will be significant. Congestion charge exemption in London adds further value for city dwellers.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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honda e
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BMW i3
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MINI Electric
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | from £26,160 | from £28,000 | from £24,400 |
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Performance
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| Engine | Electric motor 154hp | Electric motor 170hp | Electric motor 184hp |
| Power | 154 bhp | 170 bhp | 184 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.3 seconds | 7.3 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 131 miles range | 190 miles range | 145 miles range |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 171 litres | 260 litres | 211 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Retro-futuristic design, Five screen dashboard, Rear-wheel drive, Premium interior | Carbon fiber construction, Longer range, Distinctive styling | Go-kart handling, Premium brand, Better practicality |
Is the Honda e Practical for Everyday Use?
The Honda e works best as a second car or urban runabout rather than a family’s only vehicle. The 171 litre boot is smaller than most superminis, limiting luggage capacity for longer trips. Rear doors open wide to ease access, though the sloping roofline restricts headroom for taller passengers. The 4.3 metre turning circle makes tight parking spaces manageable, while the compact dimensions suit narrow city streets perfectly. However, the limited range of around 130 miles in real world conditions means longer journeys require careful planning. Fast charging capability helps, but finding rapid chargers isn’t always convenient. For those considering used Honda cars, the e represents the brand’s most advanced technology in their smallest package. Storage solutions throughout the cabin are clever, maximising the available space efficiently.
“I’ve owned my Honda e for eight months now and it still brings a smile to my face every morning. The technology took about a week to get used to, but now I can’t imagine driving anything else. Around London, the range is perfect for my daily commute with plenty left over. The interior feels like stepping into the future, while the rear wheel drive makes it surprisingly fun on country roads. Yes, it’s expensive, but the build quality and uniqueness justify the premium for me. My only complaint is the small boot space, but that’s the compromise for the distinctive styling.” – Sarah Mitchell, London
The Honda e proves that electric cars can have character and charm beyond their environmental benefits. This distinctive city car offers premium materials, cutting edge technology, and engaging driving dynamics in a package that stands out from the crowd. While the limited range and high price restrict its market appeal, the Honda e succeeds in its mission to create something genuinely different. For urban drivers who value style and technology over outright practicality, the Honda e makes a compelling case. It’s not the most rational choice in the electric car market, but it might be the most desirable for those seeking something special.