published on August 21, 2024
The Honda Freed e:HEV, the latest iteration of Honda’s popular MPV, has recently undergone a comprehensive test drive, revealing a blend of practicality and enhanced hybrid capabilities. Targeted primarily at family use, the Freed e:HEV continues to build on its reputation for spaciousness and efficiency, offering a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle.
Design and Practicality
The Freed e:HEV, available in both AIR and Crosstar versions, showcases a design that leans heavily on theStepwgn model. The AIR version, which was the focus of this test drive, features a simple yet friendly front-end design and a widened,梯形 rear that emphasizes the vehicle’s spacious interior. Measuring 4.3 meters in length, 1.6 meters in width, and 1.7 meters in height, the Freed is longer and slightly taller than its competitor, the Toyota Sienta, providing a distinct spatial advantage.
One of the notable design details of the Freed is its lower floor height, which facilitates easier access for children and the elderly. The vehicle is equipped with electric sliding doors on both sides and windows with UV and IR protection, enhancing both comfort and safety. The strengthened body rigidity also contributes to a smoother ride, significantly reducing road vibrations during the test drive.
Hybrid Power System
Under the hood, the Freed e:HEV boasts an e:HEV hybrid system that pairs a 1.5L engine with a focus on both performance and fuel efficiency. The official fuel consumption figures are impressive, with the Freed capable of traveling approximately 25.3 kilometers per liter of gasoline. The hybrid system operates seamlessly, with drivers experiencing minimal hesitation and a quick response during acceleration, often giving the sensation of driving an electric vehicle.
During the mountainous test drive, the Freed e:HEV maintained a stable performance, with the engine’s noise slightly increasing under high load but not detracting from the overall driving experience. The suspension is tuned to be softer, providing a comfortable ride without excessive body roll, even though the vehicle is taller. Despite not being an all-wheel-drive model, the Freed e:HEV’s original tires offered decent grip and traction on wet roads.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Freed e:HEV carries forward the Japanese domestic car style, with a clean and practical layout for the driver’s seat and dashboard. The use of materials similar to woven fabric adds a comfortable tactile experience. The horizontally aligned dashboard design allows drivers to easily manage their forward view, though the vehicle does not come with a factory-installed infotainment system, offering only basic instrument functions such as energy flow displays and fuel economy information.
The middle row of seats is particularly accommodating for Hong Kong’s needs, now featuring air conditioning. Adjustments can be made via the driver’s dashboard or buttons next to the middle row air vents. The middle row seats provide ample legroom and are equipped with electric sliding doors and manual sunshades.
The rear seats remain suitable for smaller individuals or children, with thicker padding and padded backrests that offer sufficient lumbar support. The larger rear side windows also contribute to an enhanced sense of space. However, the lack of USB ports in both the middle and rear rows is a minor oversight, given modern usage habits.
Boot Space and Pricing
The boot space of the Freed e:HEV remains largely unchanged, with the third-row seats easily foldable to the left and right, providing immediate additional space and capacity for various items. However, those looking for perfectly flat-folding third-row seats might prefer the Toyota Sienta.
In Japan, the Freed e:HEV AIR EX front-wheel-drive version is priced at approximately 304 million yen, which is roughly equivalent to 160,000 Hong Kong dollars. For those interested in bringing the vehicle to Hong Kong, it is advisable to consult parallel importers for actual selling prices. As for when the Hong Kong version will be available, there are no official announcements yet, so interested parties can inquire directly with the distributor, Danchai.
The Honda Freed e:HEV continues to be a compelling choice for families seeking a practical and efficient vehicle, with its enhanced hybrid power and comfortable interior making it a standout in its class.
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