Honda Unveils New Urban SUV Production Model and S660 Concept, at the Tokyo Motor Show 2013

LONDON--November 20, 2013: Honda has unveiled the new Urban SUV production model on the first day of the Tokyo Motor Show. The new model will be named Vezel for the Japanese market. Strengthening its sports car activity, Honda also revealed the S660 Concept mid-engined sports model.

The new Urban SUV will be launched in Europe during 2015, with the name of the European model being confirmed nearer to launch.

The exterior design of the new model is close to a SUV, with coupe-like styling in its upper body. The sharp character lines create an inspiring and emotional exterior design. The interior is designed to create a high-quality space for the driver and front passenger, and comfort and functionality for those in the rear.

In Japan, Honda will launch both a hybrid and petrol model of the Vezel. The hybrid model will be equipped with Sport Hybrid i-DCD* that combines a 1.5 litre direct injection engine with a high-output motor, and the petrol model will be equipped with a 1.5 litre direct injection engine. Adopting new-generation powertrain technologies, the Vezel delivers both a dynamic driving character and excellent fuel economy for both models.

The Japanese model will be launched on 20th December 2013.

Honda also unveiled the S660 Concept which aims to deliver nimble and dynamic driving, outstanding stability and a dynamic design that are only possible with a mid-ship layout.

Speaking at the Honda Press Conference, Takanobu Ito, CEO and President of Honda Motor Co., said, "This model embodies the freewheeling thinking of young Honda engineers, who want to make a cool car that is unique to Honda. Our engineers are devoting their passion and technologies to the development of this model."

Designed for the Japanese kei-car market, the model is being developed towards mass production in 2015.