The Japanese three-row minivan is available in Air and Crosstar trims with a greater degree of visual differentiation
- The third-generation Honda Freed launches in Japan with gasoline and hybrid powertrain options.
- The design is cleaner, while the Crosstar version looks more robust than before.
- The Freed is available as a six-seater with three rows of seats or a five-seater with two rows of seats.
Honda unveiled the third generation Freed ahead of its launch in Japan, scheduled for June 2024. The small three-row minivan adopts styling cues inspired by the larger Step WGN. It is available in standard Air and rugged Crosstar versions and offers a choice of petrol or self-charging hybrid (e:HEV) powertrains.
Thanks to the horizontal lines in the profile, the larger greenhouse and the tidy design of the front and rear sections, the Honda Freed looks cleaner and friendlier than before. The Freed Crosstar features SUV-inspired elements including a unique grille, chunkier bumpers, aluminum-style inserts, roof rails, plastic fender extensions and different alloy wheels.
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The new generation is 4,310 mm (169.7 inches) long, 1,695 mm (66.7 inches) wide and 1,755 mm (69.1 inches) high, with a wheelbase of 2,740 mm (107.9 inches). This makes it 45 mm (1.8 inches) longer than its predecessor with the same wheelbase.
With its footprint, the Freed positions itself within Honda’s Japanese model range between the smaller Fit hatchback and the increasingly larger Vezel SUV. Note that all three models are based on different versions of the same architecture.
The cabin features the familiar six-seat layout, including a fold-up third row that is lighter and easier to use. The Freed Crosstar is also available in a more conventional five-seat, two-row configuration that emphasizes trunk space. Both versions feature stain- and scratch-resistant seat padding, which is handy if you use it for family work or hobbies.
Honda Freed Air
Honda Freed Crosstar
The redesigned cockpit features a larger free-standing infotainment display and a smaller digital instrument cluster positioned closer to the driver. For practical reasons, Honda designers increased the dashboard storage and added roof-mounted air conditioning vents for rear passengers.
Like its predecessor, the Honda Freed is available in petrol and hybrid versions, both in 2WD and 4WD variants. Honda didn’t go into details, but we do know that the new e:HEV system will combine the 1.5-liter engine with two electric motors, offering better performance and efficiency compared to the previous model.
On the other hand, the entry-level Freed will feature a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine and a CVT transmission.
Detailed specifications and pricing for the new Honda Freed Air and Freed Crosstar will be announced closer to launch in Japan.
