Overview
The Honda e is one of the most characterful cars ever made. Its retro-futuristic design, tech-laden interior, and rear-wheel drive chassis make it utterly unique. Unfortunately, the limited range led to poor sales and early discontinuation.
Model variants:
| Version | Power | Range (WLTP) | 0-62mph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda e | 134hp | 137 miles | 9.0s |
| Honda e Advance | 152hp | 131 miles | 8.3s |
Key changes:
| Year | Changes |
|---|---|
| 2020 | UK launch |
| 2021 | Minor updates |
| 2022 | Production discontinued |
The Advance version adds power but slightly reduces range due to larger wheels.
Performance & Drive
In town
Outstanding. The Honda e was designed for cities and it shows. The tiny turning circle (4.3m), rear-wheel drive agility, and excellent visibility make urban driving genuinely enjoyable.
The cameras-instead-of-mirrors system works well once adapted to.
On the motorway
Possible but not ideal. The range depletes quickly at speed, and you'll spend more time planning charges than driving. It's a city car pressed into service.
On a twisty road
Surprisingly fun. The rear-wheel drive chassis is playful and engaging. The low centre of gravity and 50:50 weight distribution create proper driving involvement. It's genuinely entertaining on a back road.
Space & Practicality
Front seats
The interior is the Honda e's party piece. Five screens stretch across the dashboard, the materials are high-quality, and the design is stunning. The front seats are comfortable.
Rear seats
Very tight. This is a 4-seater, and the rear is really for children. Adults will struggle.
| Measurement | Space |
|---|---|
| Rear legroom | Very tight |
| Rear headroom | Tight |
| Rear width | 2 people max |
Boot space
At 171 litres, the boot is tiny — less than some superminis. Fine for shopping, challenging for anything more.
| Configuration | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Boot | 171 litres |
| Seats folded | ~861 litres |
Interior & Tech
Interior quality
Excellent. The Honda e's interior is its defining feature — five screens, premium materials, and genuine design flair. It feels special.
Technology
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Dual 12.3" touchscreens | Standard |
| Digital instrument cluster | Standard |
| Camera door mirrors | Standard |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Standard |
| Honda CONNECT | Standard |
| Wireless phone charging | Standard |
The screen setup allows customisation — you can display navigation, apps, or even an aquarium across the displays.
Camera mirrors
The cameras replace traditional door mirrors. They take adjustment but work well, especially at night.
Range & Charging
Real-world range
| Conditions | WLTP | Real-world |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed (summer) | 131-137 miles | 100-120 miles |
| Mixed (winter) | 131-137 miles | 70-95 miles |
| Motorway | 131-137 miles | 80-100 miles |
Charging
| Method | Time |
|---|---|
| 6.6kW AC | ~5 hours |
| 100kW DC | 20-80% ~30 mins |
The 100kW DC charging is fast for a small car — faster than the MX-30.
Reliability & Common Problems
Overall reliability
Good. Honda's reliability reputation extends to the e. The tech-heavy interior has proven reliable.
Common issues
| Issue | Severity |
|---|---|
| Camera mirror adaptation | Learning curve |
| 12V battery | Low-Medium |
| Discontinued concerns | Future parts/support |
Warranty
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | 3 years / 90,000 miles |
| Battery | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
What to Look For When Buying
Before viewing
- Realistic about range — 131 miles WLTP means 80-110 real
- Urban use only — Range limits long journeys
- Home charging — Essential for daily use
During inspection
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Camera mirrors | Both function, no dead pixels |
| All five screens | No issues, responsive |
| Charging | Both AC and DC |
| Boot capacity | Confirm adequate for needs |
Used Price Guide
Current market prices (2026)
| Year | Version | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Honda e | 30-50,000 | £16,000 - £22,000 |
| 2020 | Advance | 30-50,000 | £18,000 - £24,000 |
| 2021 | Advance | 20-40,000 | £20,000 - £26,000 |
| 2022 | Advance | 10-30,000 | £23,000 - £29,000 |
Depreciation
The Honda e has depreciated faster than expected due to range limitations and discontinuation. This makes used examples better value.
The Verdict
The bottom line
The Honda e (2020-2023) is a love letter to design and driving pleasure. It's one of the most characterful cars ever made — the interior alone justifies consideration.
However, the range is genuinely limiting. It's a city car that happens to be electric, not an EV that happens to be small. For urban dwellers with home charging and short daily commutes, it's perfect.
Its discontinuation is sad but creates a future classic. Buy one for the experience, not the practicality.
| Rating | Score |
|---|---|
| Value for money | 6/10 |
| Real-world range | 4/10 |
| Charging convenience | 6/10 |
| Reliability | 8/10 |
| Practicality | 3/10 |
| Overall | 6/10 |
