First Renderings Preview the Next-Generation Honda N-WGN Kei Car

Honda is already preparing the next generation of the N-WGN kei car. Several major Japanese automotive publications have pointed to the upcoming model. If those reports prove accurate, the new N-WGN will debut next year, retaining its conventional side-hinged doors while gaining updated styling, a more modern interior, and revised mechanical components.

The Honda N-WGN debuted in 2013 as a compact urban kei car aimed at buyers who did not need the sliding doors offered on the Honda N-BOX. The second generation arrived in 2019, and the model has since received several updates while maintaining its position as one of the most practical vehicles in its class.

Honda is expected to keep the new N-WGN positioned as a more affordable alternative to the popular N-BOX. Unlike the latter, the vehicle will continue using conventional side-hinged doors instead of sliding doors. That will remain the model's key advantage. This design reduces vehicle weight, lowers production costs, and also improves fuel economy and handling.

The vehicle's exterior dimensions are expected to remain within Japan's kei car regulations at 133.7 inches in length and 58.1 inches in width. Honda could, however, revise the overall roof height and interior layout to increase passenger space.

Reports also suggest that while retaining the current wheelbase, Honda may redesign the seating layout and fuel tank placement to improve second-row comfort and increase cargo area functionality. Independent designers have already shared their vision of the upcoming model. In the published renderings, the vehicle features an all-new front end with slim LED headlights connected by a horizontal black trim panel. A cleaner front bumper and redesigned hood are also expected to give the kei car a more modern appearance.

According to preliminary information, the new N-WGN will retain an updated 40.1-cubic-inch three-cylinder S07-series engine. Engineers are expected to focus on improving efficiency and reducing fuel consumption.

The addition of Honda's e hybrid system is considered unlikely at this stage. Such a powertrain would increase the vehicle's cost and weight while making packaging more complicated, so Honda is expected to continue refining the existing engine instead.

Other anticipated updates include the latest Honda SENSING safety suite, an electronic parking brake, Auto Hold, a digital instrument cluster, a larger central infotainment display, and expanded online connectivity features.

According to preliminary estimates, the new Honda N-WGN is expected to cost slightly more than the current model, which starts at approximately $10,700, although Honda will likely maintain a noticeable price gap between it and the Honda N-BOX.