By Steve Laser
Honda is preparing to launch the new third-generation Freed in Japan next month. Restyled AIR and CROSSTAR models offer a variety of seating configurations, with gas and e:HEV two-motor hybrid power, and front- or all-wheel drive.
Customers in Japan can enhance and personalize their rides with an array of new Freed accessories from Honda Access. Shown above are fully accessorized Freed e:HEV CROSSTAR “Active-Tough Style,” and Freed AIR “Superior Style” themes.
While the Freed is a compact MPV, CROSSTAR adopts a more rugged appearance, especially when outfitted with accessories from Honda Access, and finished in the factory body color of Desert Beige Pearl.
Active-Tough Style exterior accessories include a custom Berlina black with black chrome grille, three-piece lower front garnish, special black alloy wheels, and wide lower body-side moldings.
CROSSTAR interior accessories enhance the ability to organize and transport customer-supplied adventure gear. The list includes an interior-mounted rear basket-style “roof rack,” and a floor-mounted luggage tray.
Also available is a handy accessory box that fits into the side of the cargo area, providing a convenient place to store smaller items while on the go.
Freed AIR EX, shown above in Platinum White Pearl, is fitted with Superior Style exterior accessories from Honda Access. They include an aero-style lower bumper, LED fog lights, a unique front grille, alloy wheels, and a tailgate spoiler.
Honda Gathers Series display audio and navigation systems are available for the new Freed lineup. Shown above is the 9-inch navigation system installed in the dash.
The top Gathers high-tech multimedia offered for the new Freed is an 11.4-inch navigation system with Honda Connect functions.
Honda Freed History Highlights
Freed’s family tree traces its roots to 2001 and the introduction of the Honda Mobilio. The trendy Mobilio Spike version was launched for 2002, while the first generation Freed came along in 2008, followed by the Freed Spike in 2010.
The second-generation Freed (above) was launched in 2016. The compact Freed is larger than the Kei-car N-Series (N-BOX, N-VAN, etc.), but smaller than the Japan-market Odyssey and STEP WGN. The “Freed” name is said to be inspired by “Freedom” and also contains “Free” and “do,” as in take action.
The sporty Freed Modulo X (above) was launched in 2017. While Modulo custom parts and accessories are offered for Honda models in Japan, this marked the fourth complete Modulo X vehicle offered at Honda dealers. Exterior enhancements included a special grille, front aero bumper, LED fog lights, rear spoiler, mirrors and wheels.
Freed Modulo X interior gained piano black tones for the instrument panel, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 9-inch premium Gathers Internavi touchscreen display with Modulo X opening screen graphics.
A refreshed Freed was launched in 2019, including the first Freed CROSSTAR model (above). Exterior features included a crossover-style grille, unique bumpers, lights, roof rails and alloy wheels.
Freed gas models in 2019 were powered by a 1.5-liter direct injection DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and high-efficiency CVT. Hybrids featured a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle DOHC i-VTEC teamed with Sport Hybrid i-DCD (intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) and one-motor, 7-speed DCT.
Multimedia systems from Honda Access included a Gathers Internavi unit with 9-inch touchscreen and 11.6-inch rear seat monitor. Windshield-mounted Gathers drive recorder and navi-linked ETC 2.0 were also available.
Note: Pre-production 2024 prototype vehicles are shown. Features and specifications of accessories planned for Japan market models are subject to change without notice.
News sources and photos courtesy of Honda Access Co., Ltd., and Honda Motor Co. Ltd. Photos are posted in this story for editorial use.
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