Honda Spruced Up The Boxy Yet Sporty Step WGN Modulo X In Japan

Want a minivan? Your local Honda dealer will be only too glad to hook you up with a new Odyssey. But if you live in Japan, your choices are more extensive. And they include the Step WGN.

First introduced in its domestic market back in 1996, the Step WGN is now in its fifth generation. Like the Stream, the Step WGN is based on the same platform as the Civic. But where the Stream is more, well… streamlined, the Step WGN is decidedly boxy.

The tall minivan with its high roof features an innovative tailgate. Called Waku Waku (Japanese for “exciting”), it can either open upwards or split vertically to open to the side. There are both hybrid and conventional versions available, but the top of the heap is the Modulo X.

The sportiest version boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged VTEC engine, driving the front wheels through a CVT. And it boasts the upgraded suspension and aero kit to go with it.

The latest version of the Honda Step WGN Modulo X gets a new infotainment screen that’s not only larger but cuts down on glare. The 10-inch monitor replaces the previous 9-inch screen, running an upgraded navigation system.

Buyers (in Japan) can choose between seven- or eight-passenger configurations. Prices range from 3,419,280 to 3,716,280 yen, which works out to about $31-34k at current exchange rates. That’s just for the top Modulo X model, though. The base model starts at a far more reasonable 2,455,920 yen (~$22,500), and still comes with the full Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance technologies.