Honda StepWGN updated in Japan – Sport Hybrid i-MMD variants introduced, Sensing comes standard

Honda StepWGN updated in Japan – Sport Hybrid i-MMD variants introduced, Sensing comes standard

The Honda StepWGN has been refreshed for the Japanese market, with the Waku Waku Gate-equipped MPV receiving a range of updates to its styling as well as list of technologies.

Starting with the latter, the Honda Stepwagon in Spada guise is now available with the Honda Sport Hybrid Intelligent Multi Mode Drive (i-MMD) hybrid powertrain. The system consists of a 2.0 litre Atkinson cycle DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine, i-MMD electric motor, e-CVT and a lithium-ion battery.

The internal combustion engine is rated at 145 PS and 175 Nm, whereas the electric motor serves up 184 PS and 315 Nm. Drivers will have access to several drive modes, including an electric-only option, and Honda claims a fuel economy of just 25 km per litre (JC08 mode).

The Spada Hybrid variants also get a special tuning for the suspension, and in its highest trim level (G EX Honda Sensing), performance dampers are fitted to balance occupant comfort and high-speed driving stability.

As for non-hybrid variants, the L15BF 1.5 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine continues to be of service here. It churns out 150 PS and 203 Nm, and is paired with a conventional CVT. Depending on the selected variant, all-wheel drive is available as an option (FWD is standard), with the only exceptions being the Modulo X Honda Sensing variant and all Spada Hybrid ones.

Moving on, the Honda Sensing suite also makes its way into the StepWGN, which includes a range of driver assistance and safety systems. There are eight basic functions within the Sensing suite, and all of them are standard across the range.

These include Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), False Start Prevention, Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Lead Car Departure Notification System and Traffic Sign Recognition.

However, hybrid variants get a Low-Speed Follow (LSF) function to enhance the ACC, which has a range of operation starting from 0 km/h. The system is said to reduce the burden on the driver when driving on congested highways.

As for the styling changes, the StepWGN Spada receives new LED headlights, a three-tier front grille, a sharper front bumper, reshaped lower grille and a tweaked tailgate spoiler for improved aerodynamics. The MPV can also be had with Modulo bits, should customers want a to spruce things up a bit.

Prices for the 2018 Honda StepWGN start at 2,455,920 yen (RM92,171) for the base, front-wheel drive B Honda Sensing variant while the range-topping Modulo X Honda Sensing goes for 3,665,000 yen (RM137,488).


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Gerard Lye

Originating from the corporate world with a background in finance and economics, Gerard’s strong love for cars led him to take the plunge into the automotive media industry. It was only then did he realise that there are more things to a car than just horsepower count.

 

Comments

  • Still looks like a Serena

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 1
    • Operation Manager on Oct 03, 2017 at 10:37 am

      Honda Malaysia pls CKD Malaysia this model, selling Hybrid@rm90k, common@30%priceoff under EEV Incentives followed under MAI.MITI policy, as 2018 new model. I put my head on chopping board guaranteed 2018 No.1 sales MPV in Malaysia & break higher new record for 2018 HM TIV.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 0
      • Operation Manager on Oct 03, 2017 at 12:03 pm

        If CKD 7-seated X-Trail & Outlander @rm130k and considered 1-segment-up of Honda StepWGN;
        Under EEV Incentives *CKD Hybrid, Honda StepWGN no reason cannot priced below rm120k.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
        • Bruce on Oct 03, 2017 at 1:48 pm

          (Like) Honda StepWGN.
          (Dislike) Toyota Innova

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 17 Thumb down 2
          • (Dislike) Honda StepWGN
            (Like) Nissan Serena

            https://paultan.org/2017/10/03/nissan-serena-nismo-makes-for-a-sportier-proposition/

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • Tidur Oh Tidur on Oct 02, 2017 at 6:39 pm

    Wish we had this in Malaysia. Pity Honda cars are so limited now. In the 90s, we had lots of choices. Prelude, Integra etc etc. We even had Honda Legend

    But once Proton came, Honda cars became limited in Malaysia

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 32 Thumb down 34
    • Does it occur in ur unevolved head, that Prelude and Integra is no longer made and that Legend is now exclusively a JDM and USDM model?

      Oh and they only came in during 90s when P1 was roaring. So another fake news from caveman again?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 2
    • Wattheman on Oct 02, 2017 at 9:12 pm

      Wattodo 1st world StepWGN vs 3rd world BRV.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 0
    • Saya Hafiz on Oct 03, 2017 at 8:02 am

      Even HONDA Jazz RS, Honda Malaysia pun tak bawa masuk. Berlambak kereta Jazz RS di jalanraya Thailand, Singapura dan Indonesia

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 2
    • komarad on Oct 03, 2017 at 9:35 am

      in the 90’s no proton ?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • If Its here people will not buying serena/ biante/ innova anymore…this honda 1.5 Turbocharged is more economical and surely HMSB will achieved sales target

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 6
    • Driver's Choice on Oct 03, 2017 at 12:19 am

      Economical in fuel or what? 1.5 turbo is non-hybrid, never mention the fuel consumption. Who care a turbo engine for just a MPV? Peoples care the comfort & fuel consumption as long as not under power.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 3
  • Ben Yap on Oct 03, 2017 at 12:11 pm

    make the car 2 inches wider and 1 inch lower else it looks so boxy and flimsy like the serena.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • Nelson Tan on Jun 18, 2018 at 3:27 pm

    Any idea when this SUV will be release in Malaysia? Please update if anyone got any further information. Thanks.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Daniel Kabiro on Jun 23, 2019 at 2:05 am

    How much is a honda step wagon 2015, hybrid, spada

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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