All electric all class: Honda Store Christchurch
Brand new and all-electric, Honda’s e:N1 SUV has received hefty fanfare – now that it’s hit New Zealand shores, Metropol writer Ben Selby puts it to the test thanks to Honda Store Christchurch.
Mimicking much of its petrol HR-V counterpart in terms of design, the e:N1 still sports a clean, uncluttered look and some nice styling cues. Tucked away behind a flap is the AC and DC charging port, which charges to 80% from 30% in just 40 minutes, when plugged into a DC fast charger.
Inside, attention is grabbed immediately thanks to the cutting-edge 15.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While other systems feel excessively large, I didn’t find this one too much of a distraction, even with Honda’s helpful robot ‘ASIMO’ waving at me through the top of three touch zones on the screen. Throwing plenty of technology at the e:N1, features like the Honda Sensing Safety System mean every journey is a safe one.
On the move you have three different drive modes. Eco, Normal and Sport – the latter is more fun, yet I found Normal to be the sweet spot for daily use. Effortlessly blending all-round visibility, intuitive switchgear, and a supple ride, the e:N1 makes for a relaxing daily commuter.
When you factor in its $52,000 + ORC price tag, the e:N1 has carved out a very competitive stance in the New Zealand BEV market.
FACT FILE: 2025 Honda e:N1
- Price: $52,000 + ORC
- Powertrain: 68.8kWh Battery Pack/60kW electric motor
- Max power: 150kW
- Max torque: 310Nm
- Electric range: Up to 500km (Claimed)
- Charge time: 40 mins (30% to 80% with DC fast charging)
- Drive type: 2WD
- Ground clearance: 141mm
- Boot space: 348L (rear seats up)/788L (rear seats down)
- Wheels: 18-inch alloy
