Honda has begun sales of the all-new Shuttle at dealerships across Japan, with the compact wagon starting from 1,690,000 yen (approximately $14,140).
The new model is available with either an 132PS (130hp) 1.5-liter direct-injection DOHC i-VTEC gasoline engine mated to a CVT or a hybrid version equipped with the Sport Hybrid i-DCD system.
The latter pairs a 1.5-liter Atkinson cycle DOHC i-VTEC gasoline engine with an electric motor integrated into the 7-speed DCT transmission and a battery pack and has a combined system output of 137PS (135hp).
Honda says the Shuttle Hybrid averages 34.0 km/liter (2.9 l/100 km or 80 mpg US) according to the JC08 standard. For the first time, the Shuttle is also offered with a four-wheel drive option.
The all-new Honda Shuttle has five seats and a luggage space capacity of 570 liters (20.1 cu-ft). When the rear seats are folded down, the length and capacity of the luggage space can be expanded as far as 1,840mm (72.4in) and 1,141 liters (40.3 cu-ft), respectively.
The compact wagon offers a flat floor and large tailgate opening with low ground height which Honda says make the loading and unloading of luggage easier. Furthermore, it is equipped with two multi-use baskets on the backside of the rear seats. These baskets can be used independently and they are easily accessible from the rear seats. When not needed, they can be folded flat.
Under the luggage space floor there’s also a storage box made of a stain-resistant plastic material which can be used to store dirty items such as muddy shoes.