Next-Generation Honda N-One Appears in First Renderings

The next-generation Honda N-One could arrive as early as 2028, but don't expect a radical departure from the current car's styling. That's the conclusion from Japanese automotive outlet Carview, which has published what it says are the first renderings of the upcoming compact hatchback.

The N-One story began in 2012. Honda introduced the second generation in November 2020, and the automaker took a notably conservative approach to the redesign. The basic shape remained largely intact, with the familiar boxy body and round headlights carrying over to the new generation. In 2025, the lineup expanded with the all-electric N-One e:, while the gasoline-powered RS received an update.

According to Japanese automotive sources, a generational change for the N-One doesn't necessarily mean Honda will abandon its distinctive styling. The company already followed that strategy when moving from the first generation to the second. Honda also used a similar design philosophy for the electric N-One e: that debuted in 2025.

As a result, the model expected to arrive around 2028 could continue the same visual theme. The round headlights are likely to remain one of the N-One's defining features, while its overall proportions should stay close to the familiar kei-car formula.

The bigger question is what will happen under the hood.

The current N-One is offered with naturally aspirated and turbocharged gasoline engines, as well as the electric N-One e:. The EV has a claimed range of 295 kilometers, or about 183 miles, under Japan's WLTC testing cycle.

Adding a full Honda e hybrid system to a kei car would be challenging because of the segment's strict size and cost constraints. Honda's engineers would therefore have to find a careful balance between packaging, affordability and fuel efficiency if the gasoline-powered version receives another major update.

The future of the sporty N-One RS is even less certain.

Following its November 2025 update, the RS is offered exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. That setup preserves the car's focus on driving enjoyment at a time when the automotive industry is rapidly moving toward electrification.

It's not yet clear whether the next-generation N-One RS will keep the manual gearbox. Removing it would eliminate one of the defining characteristics of the sportier version and could fundamentally change what makes the RS appealing to enthusiasts.

The equipment list could also receive a significant upgrade. The next N-One is expected to gain newer Honda Sensing safety features along with expanded connectivity and infotainment capabilities.

For now, Honda has not confirmed the timing or specifications of the next-generation N-One. If the reported 2028 launch window proves accurate, the company still has plenty of time to decide how much of the tiny hatchback's traditional formula should remain intact.