Honda has unveiled the all-new Step WGN MPV in Japan ahead of its introduction on April 24 at dealerships across the country.
Powered by an all-new 1.5-liter direct injection VTEC Turbo engine, the fifth-generation Step WGN features a functional cabin space which Honda says is similar to “a living room at home,” as well as an innovative tailgate mechanism named Waku Waku Gate (“Waku Waku” meaning “exciting” in Japanese).
The big news for Honda fans outside Japan is obviously the 1.5-liter direct-injected VTEC Turbo four-cylinder engine, which is part of an all-new family of powertrains.
The engine produces 150PS (148hp) at 5,500 rpm and 203Nm (150lb-ft) of torque between 1,600 rpm and 5,000 rpm. Combined fuel consumption is rated at 17 km/l (5.9 l/100 km or 40 mpg US) according to Japan’s JC08 cycle. That’s not bad for a six-seat MPV and part of the credit goes to a new CVT developed specifically for the 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine. The Step WGN is offered with both front- and all-wheel drive.
Honda says the new Step WGN features the largest cabin space in its class, while the Waku Waku Gate is a unique proposition in the segment. The rear doors function either as a wide tailgate that opens up or as a sub-door that opens to the side. When combined with the third-row Magic Seat system with a 60-40 split that can be split and stored under the floor, the side-opening door enables third-row passengers to get in and out of the car without opening the entire tailgate, also making it easier to load and unload cargo.
The Step WGN is also equipped with the radar-based Honda Sensing, the brand’s range of driver-assistive systems that includes pedestrians detection and collision prevention, among other features. Standard active safety equipment includes Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), a Hill-Start Assist function as well as the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) system that warns vehicles following behind of a sudden stop.
The Honda Step WGN is priced from 2,288,000 yen – that’s about $19,060 at the current exchange rates.
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