By Steve & Tamami Laser
Honda is preparing to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its N360 minicar in Japan by offering a new special edition of the popular N-ONE series dubbed “SS Neo Classic Racer Package.”
While the N360 (above left) is well-known as Honda’s first commercially successful mini passenger car (as well as the brand’s first car model line officially sold in America), the N-ONE is a modern-day spin on the original that’s available in Japan.
The N-ONE is the car-like model of Honda’s popular minicars (Kei cars) that includes the van-like N-BOX and several other variants. Together Honda has sold more than 1 million N-Series vehicles in Japan.
The new SS Neo Classic Racer Package begins with a regular production N-ONE Premium Tourer Lowdown (lowered) model, adds a racing style stripe on the hood, 15-inch black monotone alloy wheels, black door handles and side moldings. (“SS” stands for “Suzuka Special.”)
A checker-style decal is applied to the sides of the roof, door side moldings, rear bumper molding and tailgate spoiler. There’s a black rear license garnish and N-ONE emblem to boot.
The cabin is treated to tan leather-trimmed seats and also includes heating functions for both front seats.
This N-ONE is powered by a 660cc DOHC turbocharged engine offered in other N-Series models teamed with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Following the rules of the Japanese “Kei Car” class, engines are limited to 660cc while passenger capacity is maxed out at four.
The N-ONE is small on the outside (your faithful editor is shown above standing next to a regular series N-ONE in Japan) yet it’s remarkably roomy inside. (Unfortunately Honda has no plans to offer its minicars in America.)
News source and photos (as noted) courtesy of Honda Motor Company Ltd. Features and specifications for models sold in Japan and are subject to change without notice
Story (commentary, and photo of our editor) © 2016 CarNichiWa.com