The Honda S7, launched in China on March 6, 2024, marks Dongfeng-Honda’s strategic push into the aggressive electrical crossover phase. Initially launched below the short-lived Ye model, the S7 now carries Honda’s international badge with a beginning worth of 259,900 yuan (~35,760 USD).
The twin-motor variant delivers 469 hp and a 620 km CLTC vary, whereas an non-obligatory 41.9-inch augmented actuality HUD headlines its tech choices. Positioned in opposition to the Tesla Mannequin Y and Chinese language rivals just like the Zeekr 7X (see specs), the S7 represents Honda’s bid to regain relevance in China’s EV market—prioritizing driving dynamics over radical innovation to enchantment to conventional consumers transitioning to electrification.
Exterior
The S7 introduces Honda’s new electrical design philosophy, characterised by distinctive Y-shaped LED headlights linked by a steady mild bar that spans the entrance fascia. This design selection offers the car a up to date but restrained look that avoids the unconventional styling of some opponents. Aerodynamic effectivity is enhanced by way of considerate particulars like flush-mounted door handles and a fastidiously contoured roofline.
An obtainable improve possibility consists of digital facet mirrors, priced at 15,000 yuan (~2,000 USD), which our testing confirmed cut back wind noise by roughly 30 per cent in comparison with typical mirrors. The car’s dimensions—4750/1930/1625 mm with a wheelbase of 2930 mm—place it barely extra compact than a Tesla Mannequin Y whereas providing superior rear legroom. Wheel choices vary from customary 19-inch alloys to non-obligatory 21-inch designs that prioritize visible enchantment whereas sustaining cheap journey consolation.
Inside
Honda’s method to inside design emphasizes purposeful ergonomics over flashy expertise. The cabin encompasses a considerate mixture of bodily controls and digital interfaces, with a responsive 15.6-inch central touchscreen operating Honda’s newest software program. Whereas the interface operates easily, it lacks the in depth app ecosystem discovered in lots of Chinese language opponents. Retaining bodily buttons for local weather management and driving mode choice will please traditionalists preferring tactile suggestions.
The entrance seats present glorious assist, with 12-way energy adjustment and air flow obtainable in increased trim ranges. An non-obligatory premium audio system from Bose incorporates progressive headrest audio system that ship navigation prompts on to the driving force with out disturbing different occupants. Rear passengers profit from beneficiant legroom and reclining seatbacks, although the mounted panoramic roof barely compromises headroom for taller people.
The S7 presents 471 litres of cargo capability in its customary configuration, increasing to 1,432 litres with the rear seats folded—figures that evaluate favourably with German luxurious opponents. Whereas the absence of a frunk is disappointing, the inside compensates with well-considered storage areas.
Behind the Wheel
Our rear-wheel-drive Honda S7 take a look at automobile encompasses a 200 kW (268 hp) electrical motor, delivering easy, linear acceleration and a 0–100 km/h time of seven.5 seconds. Whereas not class-leading in velocity, its energy supply is refined and responsive, particularly from 60–120 km/h. The 89.8 kWh battery supplied a real-world vary of 420–460 km in blended driving—about 80% of its 650 km CLTC score—with power consumption averaging 17.2 kWh/100 km at freeway speeds.
With double-wishbone entrance and five-link rear suspension, the chassis excels in journey consolation and management, outperforming rivals just like the Tesla Mannequin Y on tough surfaces. Steering is well-weighted and offers good suggestions. The regenerative braking system presents 4 ranges, with the strongest enabling natural-feeling one-pedal driving.
Three drive modes—Eco, Regular, and Sport—alter the car’s character. Sport sharpens throttle response, whereas Eco introduces a two-stage pedal really feel prioritizing regeneration. The S7 stays quiet on the freeway, aided by flush door handles and non-obligatory digital mirrors. The usual 19-inch wheels presents consolation and fewer noise. Charging tops at 150 kW, including 200 km in 18 minutes below perfect situations.
Verdict
The Honda S7 carves its area of interest by perfecting fundamentals relatively than chasing innovation. Its balanced dealing with and comfy journey ship genuine Honda driving character in an EV package deal – a compelling proposition for conventional consumers transitioning to electrification. Whereas Chinese language rivals lead in autonomous tech and 800V charging (the S7 peaks at 150kW, requiring 36 minutes for 80% cost), Honda focuses on what issues most to driving fans: exact throttle calibration, communicative steering, and suspension that balances consolation with management. Its precise competitors isn’t probably the most superior EVs, however these looking for an electrical car that continues to be unmistakably a Honda.
Keep tuned for subsequent week’s Sunday China Drive at Automobile Information China, the place you may learn extra first-person evaluations of Chinese language vehicles.
