When the Honda Clarity was unveiled at last year’s New York Auto Show in a triple offering of fuel-cell, EV and plug-in hybrid versions, it hinted at the most viable ways that manufacturers will be powering their vehicles into the future.
The low-volume fuel-cell model came first in early 2017. It was quiet, smooth and, weighing in at over 4000 lbs, handled like a heavy Accord. But with only around 35 hydrogen refueling stations in California, the fuel cell version’s practicality was poor. A little time after the fuel-cell went on sale, the battery electric Clarity became available in states such as California and Oregon. But while it handled and drove superbly, its mileage of just 89 miles (according to the EPA) meant that it was an impractical part 2 of the Clarity experiment.
Now, in 2018, we have part 3 — the main event. The Clarity plug-in hybrid electric version (PHEV) has arrived and it is big news. This variant is the most normal of the three in that it features an onboard gasoline engine that acts as a generator to charge the batteries and it’s for that reason that will appeal to the widest possible audience. The beauty of the PHEV is that it drives very much like its fuel-cell and EV brothers in that its primary form of propulsion is an electric motor.
As far as styling goes, the Clarity employs a streamlined aerodynamic body for maximum fuel efficiency. The sedan boasts Honda’s current signature facial treatment with the Japanese ‘katana’-sword inspired grille and edges that seem to take off and disappear in all directions. This styling is unique in that it has a futuristic retro look—like from Back To The Future 2 or even Total Recall. It’s a look that filmmakers envisioned futuristic cars might look like around 30 years ago.
The Clarity PHEV’s powertrain is a 2-motor, serial hybrid in which the 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine spins a generator which charges batteries for an electric motor that mainly drives the car. This is in contrast to the Toyota Prius’ parallel hybrid system, for example, in which the gasoline engine and electric motors are both mechanically connected to the transmission to drive the vehicle. Under heavy throttle, the Clarity’s engine will directly deliver torque to the drive wheels to aid acceleration.
The car’s total output of 182hp and 232 lb-ft of torque are sufficient but not overly powerful. The Clarity will sprint from zero to 60mph in 7.7 seconds and its driving experience is very similar to the Accord hybrid. The EPA says the Clarity PHEV will cover around 48 miles (77kms) and on Japanese roads where I tested the car, while Honda in Japan says the car will reach 62 miles (101km) on one electric charge. I managed something in between, around 50 miles at an average speed of around 45mph, which is a commendable result. For the record, the range on one electric charge (before the engine cuts into recharge) is around double what the Prius Prime can achieve.
As for total range, well it’s hard to calculate for a vehicle that boasts such an efficient electric motor. If you drive less than 50 miles per day, and are able to charge your car at home, then you will rarely access the gasoline in your tank to charge the batteries.
The Clarity is quiet and delivers its power with ease and comfort. Even boasting a 2-ton curb weight, the car handles well with a flat ride and controlled body roll in corners thanks to a battery pack that’s positioned down low in the chassis. Ride quality is excellent, wind and tire noise are almost not noticeable and the brakes are sufficient. This PHEV does have a Sport mode, but it seems out of place for a car that cruises so effortlessly. The Clarity also gets paddles that regulate the regenerative braking, a feature that adds a level of sportiness to this machine.
Inside the Clarity is neat and well appointed with Honda mainstream design traits throughout. Covered in leather, the front seats are comfortable and switches are intuitive and easy to operate. As you’d expect, the Clarity gets the same flat panel gear selectors located atop the center tunnel as the Accord hybrid.
Starting at $34,300, this plug-in hybrid is the Clarity that will make the market finally stand up and pay attention. It has the range, the handling, the ride and quality. And if you find the exterior to your tastes, then the Clarity offers frugal quality motoring for a reasonable price.
