2021 Honda Clarity – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Spec

Honda’s Approach to Electrification

With the EV revolution just around the corner, automakers are now gearing up to meet the demand. Honda’s got a head start with the Clarity initially debut back in 2019 and while it’s not a pure EV, the plugin-hybrid gets 48 miles of EV range, beating the Toyota Prius and Hyundai Plugin Hybrid by 4 and 19 miles respectively. Once its EV range is depleted, an onboard fuel-efficient 1.5 liter 4-cylinder engine kicks into hybrid-electric mode.

While Honda isn’t particularly known for its hybrid approach, the Clarity offers excellent fuel economy and a very competitive EV range within the plugin-hybrid segment. The compact 4-door compact sedan offers plenty of practicality and with available government incentives depending on area, the Honda Clarity becomes a very attractive option within the 34k price point.

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Trims

The Honda Clarity is offered in either the Base or Touring trim. Both offer the same powertrain and specifications while the Touring trim adds a few worthwhile luxury and comfort features such as dual zone climate controls, power adjustable and memory front seats, factory navigation and upgraded perforated leather seats for an additional 3k with the base trim starting at $34,415.

Powertrain

Powering the plugin-hybrid powertrain is a 181 horsepower electric motor working alongside a 1.5 liter 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine. Also onboard is a 17kWh lithium ion battery pack that gets the Clarity an EV range of a respectable 47 miles before transitioning into hybrid electric mode. With the combined power from both the electric motor and combustion engine, the Clarity outputs a total of 212 horsepower. The Clarity’s total range of 340 miles also adds to its list of high points with an overall EPA of 68 MPGe.

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Charging the Clarity to full range takes a mere 2.5 hours on a level 2 240V EVSE charger, which is preferred while a 120V charger will take significantly longer at 12 hours.

Interior and Comfort

While basic, the Clarity’s interior features a clean and well mannered cabin space with decent quality of materials and construction that features mahogany wood trim, clean lines, and comfortable seating. Visibility also proved to be excellent in particular for front seat passengers with the extended A-pillars windows. A moonroof is also available for added comfort as well and its push button-type gear shifter makes for an ultra clean center console. While front seating offers plenty of space and comfort, rear seats fall a bit short in legroom, but still fits 2 full size adults comfortably.

An 8″ infotainment touchscreen manages all navigation and multimedia access that’s compatible with both Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Two USB ports are accessible via the front center console for auxiliary connection and 1.5A rated USB charging. Touring trims also receives built-in navigation as well for added convenience. Equipped in both trims is also a 12-speaker audio system that delivers good quality sound, but nothing out of the ordinary when compared with other higher end audio systems.

Test Drive and Final Thoughts

Road practice on the Honda Clarity shows smooth acceleration and whisper quiet operation and adequate power for most occasions in EV mode. A smooth transition to hybrid-electric mode kicks in when either EV range is depleted, or extra power is needed when pushing down on the throttle, or driving uphill. Despite a heavier 17 kWh lithium ion battery pack onboard, the Clarity still feels relatively light on the road with easy and nimble handling. Adding to the final touch is the upscaled interior that makes for a comfortable ride even for long trips.

All in all, the Clarity offers a good balance of fuel economy, practicality and affordability. Base trims come priced in at $34,415 while the upgraded Touring trim is priced at $37,555.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2021 Honda Clarity
• Model : Clarity touring
• Vehicle Type : 5-door Compact Sedan
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain : 181 horsepower AC Induction Motor + 1.5 liter 4-cylinder engine
• Transmission : CVT

Pros

• Top EV range of 48 Miles in its segment.
• Excellent fuel economy when running in hybrid-electric mode
• Good quality interior
• Decent price with available government incentives depending on area.

Cons

• Tighter rear seats due to added room required for the lithium ion battery pack