Vehicle Overview
The 2020 Honda e is a city-focused electric hatchback that combines retro-modern styling with agile handling and a tech-rich cabin. Built on Honda’s bespoke EV platform, it offers compact dimensions, a tight turning circle, and a premium feel—ideal for urban commuters seeking a distinctive alternative to conventional city cars.
| Segment | City Electric Hatchback |
| Body Style | 5-door hatchback |
| Model Year | 2020 |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive electric |
Key Specifications
| Specification | Hong Kong / Europe Spec | Japan Spec |
|---|---|---|
| Motor | 150 PS (110 kW) / 315 Nm | 154 PS (113 kW) / 300 Nm |
| Battery | 35.5 kWh lithium-ion | 35.5 kWh lithium-ion |
| 0–100 km/h | 8.3 s | 8.3 s |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 145 km/h |
| Range (WLTP / JC08) | ~220 km (WLTP) / ~283 km (JC08) | ~283 km (JC08) |
| Charging (AC) | 6.6 kW onboard (0–100% in ~5 h) | 6.6 kW onboard |
| Charging (DC) | Up to 80 kW CCS (0–80% in ~30 min) | CHAdeMO DC (0–80% in ~30 min) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 3,895 × 1,750 × 1,512 mm | Same |
| Wheelbase | 2,530 mm | 2,530 mm |
| Turning Circle | 4.3 m | 4.3 m |
Exterior Design
| Retro-Modern Styling | Rounded “pixel” LED headlamps, flush door handles, and smooth body panels. |
| Compact Footprint | 3.9 m length and tight 4.3 m turning circle for effortless city maneuvering. |
| Black Contrast Roof | Floating roof effect with high-mounted rear spoiler. |
| Camera Mirrors (Europe) | Replaces door mirrors with slim digital cameras and interior screens (market-specific). |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
| Minimalist Cabin | Horizontally split dash with dual 12.3″ screens—one for instrumentation, one for infotainment. |
| Premium Finishes | Synthetic leather seats, metal-look trim, and soft-touch panels. |
| Seating | Heated front seats with simple 6-way manual adjustments; rear seating suitable for two adults on short trips. |
| Storage | Central “bin” console, glovebox, door pockets, and under-floor cargo area in the boot. |
Features & Infotainment
| Dual Screens | Full digital instrument panel + touchscreen for nav, media, and vehicle settings. |
| Honda Internavi | Cloud-connected nav with over-the-air updates (Japan) or embedded infotainment (Europe). |
| Smartphone Integration | Bluetooth streaming, USB-C charging ports; no Apple CarPlay/Android Auto at launch. |
| Unique Touches | “Shuttlecock” floating center console; side-view camera displays (Europe). |
Safety & Ratings
| Euro NCAP | 5-star rating (2020). |
Standard Safety
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Lane-Keep Assist & Traffic Sign Recognition
Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
Honda Sensing suite (more comprehensive in Japan)
| Parking Aids | Rear-view camera and parking sensors. |
Driving Performance
| RWD Dynamics | Electric motor on rear axle yields balanced weight distribution and rear-drive feel. |
| One-Pedal Driving | Adjustable regenerative braking (“Level 3” engages full stop). |
| Steering & Suspension | MacPherson front and multi-link rear suspension tuned for sharp turn-in and composed ride. |
| Brake Feel | Predictable hydraulic system with regenerative blending. |
Energy Efficiency / EV Range
| Consumption | ~15.5 kWh/100 km real-world. |
| Range | ~220 km WLTP, ~280 km JC08. |
| Charging Speeds | AC full charge in ~5 h; DC rapid-charge to 80% in ~30 min. |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
| Boot Capacity | 171 L under parcel shelf; 470 L with rear seats folded. |
| Urban Usability | Excellent visibility, small footprint, and tight turning circle. |
| Daily Tools | Cabin storage cubbies, cupholders, and phone tray. |
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty | 3 years / 100,000 km (vehicle); 8 years / 160,000 km (battery) in many markets. |
| Service Intervals | 12 months / 15,000 km. |
| Roadside Assist | 3 years / mileage match. |
Price & Value for Money
| Launch Pricing (UK/Europe) | from ~£29,000 (ex-grant). |
| Value Proposition | Premium tech and design at near-supermini price; undercuts competitors like Mini Electric. |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Range (WLTP) | Power | Boot (L) | Price (From) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda e | 220 km | 150 PS | 171 / 470 | £29 000 |
| Mini Electric | 234 km | 184 PS | 211 | £29 900 |
| Fiat 500 e | 320 km | 118 PS | 185 | £30 000 |
| Renault Zoe | 395 km | 135 PS | 338 | £28 000 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Distinctive, retro-modern design
Agile RWD handling and tight turning circle
Dual 12.3″ screens create a premium, tech-rich feel
Strong safety rating and Honda build quality
Cons
Limited range compared to newer city EVs
Modest boot capacity under parcel shelf
Lacks smartphone-link integration at launch
Premium pricing relative to spec
Overall Rating
4.0 / 5 stars
A niche, design-led city EV that offers engaging dynamics and standout technology—best suited for style-conscious urbanites.
Final Verdict
The 2020 Honda e is ideal for urban drivers who prioritize character, tech, and maneuverability over outright range. Its unique styling, RWD feel, and high-quality cabin set it apart in the compact EV market.
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Honda e is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.