Honda E:Ny1 Review: Compact Electric SUV With 256-Mile Range

The Honda e:Ny1 marks the brand’s bold step into the compact electric SUV segment, offering a mix of familiar Honda reliability with modern EV tech. Priced from around £41,000, it aims to appeal to drivers transitioning from traditional family cars to zero-emission mobility. While it impresses with agile handling and generous rear space, questions linger over its efficiency in varied conditions and value against competitors.

Powertrain and Driving Experience

At the heart of the e:Ny1 is a single front-mounted electric motor producing 201bhp and 310Nm of torque, paired with a 62kWh battery pack positioned low in the chassis for better stability. This setup delivers front-wheel drive with a 0-62mph sprint in 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 100mph, making it brisk for urban and highway duties.

Drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—allow tailoring of power delivery. Eco mode smooths out acceleration to prioritize range, mimicking petrol car responses to reduce wheelspin, while Sport unleashes full power for overtakes. However, reviewers note torque steer under hard launches in Normal or Sport, especially from junctions, due to the 1,750kg kerb weight challenging the front tires’ grip.

• Steering: Precise and well-weighted, evoking the Honda Civic’s sharpness despite the SUV stance.
• Brakes: Strong and progressive, blending regenerative and friction systems effectively.
• Ride Quality: Firm over rough surfaces, transmitting some road noise, but composed at higher speeds.

The regenerative braking feels unconventional to some, with adjustable one-pedal driving via paddles, though it lacks the seamless creep of rivals. Motor whine is audible at low speeds, overshadowing the pedestrian alert tone, detracting from EV silence.

Battery Range and Efficiency Insights

Honda quotes a WLTP range of 256 miles for the e:Ny1, achievable in ideal conditions with 4.1mi/kWh on test routes in Eco mode. Real-world mixed driving yields around 4mi/kWh, but cold weather plummets this to 2.4mi/kWh (165 miles), exacerbated by the absence of a heat pump—unlike the Hyundai Kona Electric, which maintains range better with heating. Air conditioning also drains range noticeably.

Compared to the Peugeot e-2008’s 248 miles from a smaller 51kWh battery, the e:Ny1’s larger pack underdelivers efficiency. Expect 200 miles realistically in daily use.

Charging Capabilities

DC rapid charging hits 78kW, replenishing 10-80% in 45 minutes. AC wallbox charging (7.4kW) takes about 9 hours for a full charge. No vehicle-to-load features are mentioned, keeping it straightforward for home and public use.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

The cabin stands out with high build quality, soft-touch materials, and a driver-focused layout. Dual 15.4-inch screens handle infotainment and gauges, running Honda’s intuitive software with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Rear legroom impresses for the class, accommodating adults comfortably, with good headroom. Boot space measures 363 litres, expanding to 1,175 litres with seats folded—adequate but not class-leading. ISOFIX points and a flat-folding load floor enhance family versatility.

• Front Seats: Supportive with heating; steering wheel adjusts well.
• Rear Space: Knee room rivals larger SUVs.
• Storage: Deep door bins and console cubbies.

Visibility is strong thanks to slim pillars, though the firm ride amplifies low-speed jitter.

Safety and Technology Features

Standard kit includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. Honda Sensing suite earns high marks for non-intrusive operation. The app enables remote preconditioning, defrosting, and charge monitoring—practical for daily EV life.

Pricing and Ownership Costs

Starting at £41,240 rising to £43,515, the e:Ny1 sits premium in its segment, overlapping pricier rivals despite middling range. Road tax is EV-friendly, with strong residuals expected from Honda’s reputation. Warranty covers 3 years/90,000 miles, extendable to 5 years with servicing.

Competitor Comparison

The e:Ny1 slots against the Peugeot e-2008, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Kia Niro EV. It edges in power and space but trails in efficiency and charging speed.

Ideal Buyer Profile

Suited for Honda loyalists prioritizing ride quality, space, and tech over outright range or bargain pricing. Families upgrading from hatchbacks will appreciate its practicality, though efficiency-conscious drivers may look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Honda e:Ny1 suitable for long trips?

Its 256-mile range works for most commutes, but plan charges for longer journeys, especially in winter.

Does it have a heat pump?

No, impacting cold-weather range compared to rivals like the Kona Electric.

How quick is the e:Ny1?

0-62mph in 7.6 seconds—peppy for a family SUV.

What’s the boot space like?

363 litres standard, expanding significantly—good for shopping and gear.

Is the interior premium?

Yes, with quality materials and large screens rivaling luxury brands.

Final Thoughts on Value

The Honda e:Ny1 delivers a competent, enjoyable EV experience with standout handling and space, but its price, noise, and conditional efficiency hold it back from greatness. In a crowded market, it shines for those valuing Honda’s engineering over headline figures. Test drive to see if its charm wins you over.