Honda has been making waves in the EV market with the impressive performance of its first electric SUV in the U.S., the Prologue. This vehicle not only surpassed the sales figures of all electric models built on GM’s Ultium platform last year but also outperformed Honda’s own gas-powered Passport. Whether it’s the brand’s reputable image or the exceptional value-for-money offered by their EVs, Honda is capitalizing on this momentum with the launch of a new contender in the electric SUV space: the S7.
This launch is poised to take on the Tesla Model Y, featuring a competitive price point in China and innovative Honda drivetrain technology. Notably, the S7 brings back the 50:50 rear-wheel-drive split, a beloved feature last seen in the cult-classic Honda S2000. According to Honda, this setup enhances the vehicle’s cornering capabilities, reducing the likelihood of understeering or tail drifting during high-intensity driving. The double wishbone suspension further aids in managing the vehicle’s dynamics during acceleration and deceleration.
The S7 also boasts an adjustable damping system that responds instantaneously to road conditions. Additionally, Honda has emphasized the vehicle’s smooth acceleration and seamless stopping, characteristic of Honda’s petrol vehicles, which has been successfully adapted to their electric models.
In terms of safety, the S7 is a fortress on wheels. Its body and battery pack have been crafted to safeguard occupants during crashes. The vehicle incorporates 1500MPa hot-formed steel, which accounts for 25% of its structure, providing submarine-grade pressure resistance. Over two-thirds of the core area is high-strength steel, delivering 40,000 Nm/degree anti-twist performance, able to withstand substantial impacts. Moreover, Honda has integrated a rare five-layer A-pillar structure using advanced welding technology to ensure structural integrity even in extreme collisions.
The S7’s battery has been co-developed with CATL, featuring a robust 90 kWh capacity that promises a range of 650km on the CLTC cycle. It includes a unique 15-layer protection system and a dual high-voltage switch to prevent thermal runaway. One of the standout features of the battery system is its modular design, which consists of 13 easily replaceable modules, significantly reducing maintenance and repair costs by up to 80%.
Standard in every S7 is Honda’s Level 2 self-driving system, enhancing driver convenience with features like remote parking via a smartphone app, ideal for squeezing into tight parking spots. The interior of the S7 reflects Honda’s commitment to comfort and luxury, boasting a 61.7% axle length ratio that ensures a spacious cabin. Rear passengers can enjoy near-reclining comfort, complete with a premium BOSE sound system integrated into the headrests and the choice of seven fragrances diffused throughout the cabin.
Designed with Honda’s seven pillars of comfort—high-end luxury, spaciousness, minimal pressure, thoughtfulness, immersive experience, interaction, and convenience—the S7 is crafted to exceed expectations. To entice early buyers, Honda is offering an array of incentives for the vehicle, which is attractively priced at $35,840.
