The Honda N-WGN II 0.7, producing 64 horsepower with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), is a kei car produced by Honda, primarily for the Japanese domestic market. Introduced in August 2019 as part of the second generation N-WGN (JF5/JF6 chassis), this variant represents an entry-level offering within the N-WGN lineup, emphasizing fuel efficiency and ease of use for urban commuting. It’s designed to maximize interior space within the strict dimensional and engine size limitations of the kei car class, a unique segment of the automotive market in Japan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | N-WGN |
| Generation | N-WGN II |
| Type (Engine) | 0.7 (64 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | August, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 64 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 97.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 104 Nm @ 2600 rpm (76.71 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | S07B |
| Engine displacement | 658 cm3 (40.15 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 60 mm (2.36 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.6 mm (3.06 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 850-870 kg (1873.93 – 1918.02 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 27 l (7.13 US gal | 5.94 UK gal) |
| Length | 3395 mm (133.66 in.) |
| Width | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Height | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm (99.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1305 mm (51.38 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.0 m (29.53 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 155/65 R14 75S; 165/55 R15 75V |
| Wheel rims size | 14; 15 |
Introduction
The N-WGN II, launched in 2019, built upon the success of the first-generation N-WGN, continuing Honda’s commitment to maximizing space and practicality within the kei car segment. The 0.7 CVT variant served as the base model, offering a cost-effective and fuel-efficient option for buyers prioritizing urban mobility. The “WGN” designation stands for “Wagon” and “GN” for “Genuine,” signifying a practical and authentic vehicle. This generation saw improvements in interior space, safety features, and overall refinement compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the N-WGN II 0.7 is the S07B engine, a 658cc inline-three cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. Multi-point fuel injection ensures efficient fuel delivery. The engine produces 64 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 104 Nm (76.71 lb-ft) of torque at 2600 rpm. The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), chosen for its smooth operation and contribution to fuel economy. Honda’s CVT is designed to mimic traditional gear changes, providing a more natural driving experience than some earlier CVT implementations. The S07B engine is known for its relatively simple construction, contributing to its reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The N-WGN II 0.7 CVT delivers adequate performance for city driving. Acceleration is modest, but sufficient for navigating urban traffic. The CVT effectively utilizes the engine’s torque, providing smooth and linear power delivery. Compared to the turbocharged 660cc engine available in higher trims, the 0.7 variant feels noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The CVT’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, which can sometimes result in a slight delay in response when requesting sudden acceleration. The lightweight nature of the vehicle (850-870 kg) helps to mitigate the effects of the relatively low horsepower output. Steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the entry-level trim, the N-WGN II 0.7 CVT typically came equipped with basic features such as power windows, power door locks, and air conditioning. Standard safety equipment included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and airbags. Interior upholstery was typically a simple cloth material. Optional extras included a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and parking sensors. Higher trim levels offered features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior materials, and advanced safety technologies like Honda Sensing, a suite of driver-assistance systems. The focus of this trim was affordability and practicality, providing essential features without the added cost of luxury items.
Chassis & Braking
The N-WGN II utilizes a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut setup, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension utilizes a torsion beam axle, a cost-effective and space-saving design common in kei cars. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear. The braking system is adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but not particularly sporty. The relatively small tires (155/65 R14 or 165/55 R15) contribute to a comfortable ride but offer limited grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The N-WGN II 0.7 CVT was well-received in Japan as a practical and affordable kei car option. Critics praised its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of power, particularly when compared to other turbocharged kei car options. Compared to the higher-spec N-WGN variants, the 0.7 CVT offered a significant price advantage, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. Its fuel economy was a key selling point, typically achieving around 4.0-4.5 liters per 100 kilometers (52-58 mpg) in real-world driving conditions. Reliability was generally considered good, typical of Honda products.
Legacy
The Honda N-WGN II 0.7 CVT remains a popular choice in the used car market in Japan. The S07B engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, it provides reliable and efficient transportation for urban commuters. The N-WGN series, as a whole, has been a consistent sales success for Honda, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the kei car segment in Japan. The 0.7 CVT variant continues to offer a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical kei car.
