Honda S7 electric SUV launched in China for 35,840 USD
The Honda S7 electric crossover from the Dongfeng-Honda joint venture was launched in China with a starting price of 259,900 yuan (35,840 USD). The top-trim level of this EV boasts 469 hp, 620 km range, and a large 41.9-inch head-up display.
The Honda S7 crossover was initially introduced in China under the newly formed Ye brand last year. However, the Japanese automaker distanced from the Ye branding. As a result, this SUV has entered the Chinese market as the Honda S7. This model aims to enhance the automaker’s sales volume in China.
More about the Honda S7
The Honda S7 adopts the brand’s new design language with large Y-shaped headlights joined with a thin LED strip. This vehicle has a large air intake in the front bumper. Other features of the Honda S7 include retractable door handles, five-spoke wheels, a sleek roofline, and optional side-view cameras. From the back, the Honda S7 has a large roof spoiler and vertically aligned taillights with an LED element between them.
Dimensions of the Honda S7 are 4750/1930/1625 mm with a wheelbase of 2930 mm. For comparison, it is 47 mm shorter than the updated Tesla Model Y. However, the wheelbase of the Honda’s EV is 40 mm longer. The S7 has a trunk capacity of 471 liters. The car goes standard with 19-inch wheels. And the top-trim model adopts 21-inch rims.
Inside, the Honda S7 has a large portrait-oriented 24-inch screen and a 9.9-inch LCD instrument cluster. Another feature of this crossover is a 41.9-inch augmented reality head-up display. It also has heated seats and a steering wheel. The Honda S7 goes standard with eight speakers. The top-trim level car offers 16 Bose-branded speakers. This crossover also adopts the Honda Sensing driving assistance system.
Honda S7 powertrain and chassis
The rear-wheel drive Honda S7 adopts a single electric motor in the rear axle with a peak power output of 200 kW (268 hp) and 420 Nm of torque. This e-motor is powered by the ternary NMC battery pack with a capacity of 89.8 kWh. This model has a CLTC range of 650 km.
The 4WD variant of the Honda S7 adopts two electric motors for 350 kW (469 hp) and 770 Nm. This variant speeds up to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The battery is the same with a capacity of 89.8 kWh. Its range reaches 620 km under CLTC conditions. This battery pack can be charged to 80% in 36 minutes.
The Honda S7’s body boasts a torsional rigidity of 40,000 Nm/degree. The passengers’ safety has 11 airbags. Its chassis has a continuous damping control system. The front axle of the S7 has a double wishbone independent suspension. Its rear suspension adopts the five-link independent suspension.
Honda S7 prices
The Honda S7 entered China in two trim levels. Its entry-level RWD version is priced at 259,900 yuan (35,840 USD). The top-trim 4WD model costs 309,900 yuan (42,740 USD). For comparison, the updated Tesla Model Y costs 263,500 – 354,900 yuan (36,340 – 48,950 USD).
The Japanese crossover is a bit cheaper than its American rival in the Middle Kingdom. However, the Honda S7 has a lot of strong rivals from Chinese brands, including 800V-platform-based Zeekr 7X, Xpeng G6, and BYD Sealion 07. What is more, these models are seemingly cheaper than the Japanese-branded car. The Tesla Model Y copes with the competition from the Chinese models because of the brand’s halo. However, Honda hasn’t got the same advantage in the field of electric cars. So, it will be problematic for the S7 to turn into a hot seller in China.
Later, Honda will launch the electric sibling of the S7 called Honda P7. This model will be manufactured by the GAC-Honda joint venture.
