The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid emerges as a groundbreaking vehicle in the realm of eco-conscious automobiles, offering a unique blend of electric driving capability with the reassurance of a gasoline engine for extended journeys. As part of Honda’s pioneering Clarity series, this plug-in hybrid sedan stands out by providing a spacious, sophisticated, and comprehensively equipped five-passenger experience. Positioned as the volume leader within the Clarity lineup, which also includes the Fuel Cell and Electric models, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is available across all 50 states, marking Honda’s commitment to making electrified vehicles accessible nationwide.
Honda’s vision for the future is clearly embodied in the Clarity series. With a bold target of electrified vehicles constituting two-thirds of its global auto sales by 2030, the Honda Clarity, particularly the Plug-In Hybrid variant, is at the forefront of this ambitious initiative. Manufactured with precision in Honda’s Saitama factory in Japan, the Honda Clarity represents a significant step towards mainstreaming electric vehicle technology.
Uncompromising Electric Vehicle Performance and Range
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is engineered to deliver an advanced and refined driving experience without sacrificing range, performance, or comfort. This makes it an ideal choice for a diverse range of drivers and driving situations. One of its most compelling features is its exceptional 47-mile all-electric range, as rated by the EPA. This best-in-class range for a plug-in hybrid sedan allows for emission-free driving for the majority of daily commutes and errands.
For longer trips, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid eliminates “range anxiety” thanks to its efficient hybrid powertrain. It boasts a combined gas-electric EPA range rating of 340 miles, offering the flexibility to travel long distances without the constraints of solely electric vehicles. This dual capability ensures that owners can enjoy the benefits of electric driving in their daily routines while still having the freedom for spontaneous or planned long-distance travel.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is generously equipped with a wide array of standard features focused on convenience, connectivity, safety, and driver assistance. These include energy-efficient LED exterior lighting, the comprehensive Honda Sensing® safety suite, Smart Entry with push-button start, and an intuitive 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen that seamlessly integrates with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. For those seeking an elevated experience, the Touring trim adds luxurious leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an 8-way power driver’s seat with memory settings, a 4-way power front passenger’s seat, and the Honda satellite-linked navigation system.
Elegantly Efficient Powertrain: The Heart of the Honda Clarity
At the core of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid lies Honda’s innovative two-motor hybrid technology. This sophisticated system comprises three key components working in harmony:
- Ultra-Efficient 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC® Atkinson-cycle Engine: This inline 4-cylinder engine is paired with a starter/generator motor, optimizing fuel efficiency and power generation.
- Ultra-Quiet 181-horsepower AC Synchronous Traction Motor: This powerful electric motor provides smooth, responsive, and near-silent propulsion.
- High-Capacity 17-kilowatt hour (kWh) Lithium-Ion Battery Pack: Consisting of 168 cells, this battery pack stores substantial energy, enabling the impressive all-electric range of the Honda Clarity.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid primarily operates in electric mode, leveraging its Atkinson-cycle engine and generator motor to produce electricity. This generated power is then directly supplied to the traction motor or used to recharge the lithium-ion battery, depending on driving demands and battery charge level. To further enhance efficiency, an electric-servo brake system incorporates regenerative braking, capturing energy during deceleration and braking to replenish the battery. This intricate system contributes to an outstanding all-electric EPA rating of 110 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) combined.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid intelligently manages power delivery through three distinct driving modes, seamlessly transitioning between them to optimize efficiency based on driving conditions:
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EV Drive: In this mode, the Honda Clarity functions as a pure electric vehicle. The gasoline engine is completely off and decoupled from the drivetrain, minimizing friction. The 181-horsepower traction motor draws power solely from the lithium-ion battery pack for zero-emission driving.
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Hybrid Drive: Here, the Honda Clarity operates as a series hybrid. Similar to EV Drive, the electric traction motor provides motive power. The gasoline engine and generator motor work in tandem to generate electricity, which is then supplied to the traction motor or battery pack as needed, depending on driving conditions and battery charge.
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Engine Drive: Typically engaged during steady cruising at medium to high speeds, Engine Drive mode turns the Honda Clarity into a parallel hybrid. A lock-up clutch connects the engine (always linked to the generator motor) and the traction motor, allowing power from the engine to directly drive the front wheels. Unlike many conventional hybrids and plug-in hybrids, the Honda Clarity eliminates the need for a traditional transmission, reducing weight, complexity, and further enhancing efficiency.
Drivers can further customize their driving experience with three selectable operating modes – Normal, Econ, and Sport – allowing for tailored efficiency or performance. An additional HV mode is designed to maintain the battery’s state of charge and can be used in conjunction with the other driving modes, providing even greater control over energy management.
The remarkable fuel efficiency of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is evident in its EPA ratings. It achieves a combined 110 MPGe in all-electric mode and an impressive 44/40/42 mpg (city/highway/combined) when running solely on gasoline, demonstrating the efficiency of both its electric and gasoline powertrains.
Distinctive and Aerodynamic Design of the Honda Clarity
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid distinguishes itself within the Clarity family and the broader automotive landscape with unique exterior design elements. A model-exclusive Forest Blue Pearl exterior color option immediately sets it apart. A distinctive chrome bar across the front grille and a chrome deck lid garnish add a touch of sophistication, while a unique color-coordinated 18-inch alloy wheel design further enhances its visual appeal.
Key Features at a Glance:
- 1.5-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC® Atkinson-cycle in-line 4-cylinder engine
- High-output electric motor with 181 peak horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. of torque
- 17kWh, 168-cell lithium-ion battery pack capacity
- Full charge in just 2.5 hours at 240 volts
- 110 MPGe all-electric combined (city & highway) EPA fuel economy rating
- 44/40/42 MPG (city/highway/combined) EPA fuel economy rating (gasoline-only)
- 47-mile EPA electric-only range rating
- Spacious 5-passenger cabin
- 8-inch Display Audio with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ integration
- Highly efficient aerodynamics
- Standard Honda Sensing® safety suite
Powertrain Excellence: Honda’s Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive System
The 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid features the second generation of Honda’s Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) two-motor hybrid system. This advanced powertrain is engineered to seamlessly select the optimal drive operation across a wide spectrum of driving conditions, harmonizing engaging performance with exceptional efficiency.
Power originates from a robust 181-horsepower electric motor, generating 232 lb.-ft. of torque. This motor draws energy from both the gasoline engine and a substantial 17-kilowatt hour (kWh) battery pack. Charging convenience is prioritized with a rapid 2.5-hour recharge time using a Level 2, 240-volt charger.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid powertrain incorporates a 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine working in conjunction with two electric motors – a primary traction motor and a generator/starter motor. Sophisticated energy management, orchestrated by the Power Control Unit (PCU), ensures optimal utilization of both the electric propulsion motor and the gasoline engine. This results in seamless, responsive performance and remarkable EPA fuel economy ratings.
To maximize real-world efficiency, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid intelligently and seamlessly transitions between three distinct drive operations: EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive. This dynamic system leverages power from the Atkinson-cycle i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine and electric motors to adapt in real-time to prevailing driving conditions.
Key Powertrain Specifications:
- Peak total system output: 212 horsepower
- 1.5-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC® Atkinson-cycle inline-4 cylinder engine
- Engine output: 103 peak horsepower at 5,500 rpm
- Engine output: 99 lb.-ft. peak torque at 5,000 rpm
- i-VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) + Electric VTC
- AC synchronous electric traction motor
- Propulsion motor peak output: 181 horsepower and 232 lb.-ft. of torque
- 17 kWh lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery
- Electric-servo regenerative braking system
- Full charge in 2.5 hours using a Level 2, 240 volt charger
Emissions, Fuel Economy, and Range:
- 47-mile EPA all-electric range rating
- 110 MPGe all-electric combined EPA fuel economy rating
- 44/40/42 MPG (city/highway/combined) EPA fuel economy rating (gasoline-only)
- Meets stringent LEVIII SULEV20 emission standards
The powertrain layout of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is meticulously designed for optimal packaging efficiency, ensuring a spacious and accommodating 5-passenger interior. The lithium-ion batteries are strategically positioned beneath the passenger compartment, lowering the center of gravity for enhanced handling without compromising passenger or cargo space.
Interior Refinement and Technology of the Honda Clarity
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid redefines value in the plug-in hybrid segment with its spacious and premium 5-passenger sedan configuration. The interior environment is bright, modern, and sophisticated, conveying a premium feel with exceptional comfort and refinement. An open and advanced design aesthetic is achieved through a sleek instrument panel, available ivory white or black bio-fiber fabric (or leather-trimmed power seating in the Touring trim), and accent panels featuring a natural woodgrain finish. The cabin incorporates premium, environmentally conscious materials and is equipped with advanced technologies, including Display Audio with seamless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ integration.
Key Interior Convenience and Connectivity Features:
- 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration
- Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
- 7-inch TFT intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID)
- 180-watt 8-speaker audio system
- HD Radio™ and SiriusXM® Radio
- Pandora® interface
- SMS Text Message function
- USB audio interface ports
- Push button start/stop
- Smart Entry
- Dual-zone climate control
- Rear heat/air conditioning vents
- 60/40 Split Fold Down Rear Seat
- Standard HondaLink® connectivity
A suite of convenience features streamlines daily driving, including a roomy center console with a large storage compartment under the padded armrest. The center console also houses a dual cupholder and an open lower storage area ideal for smartphones or tablets. Rear passengers benefit from a fold-down center armrest with cupholders and cell phone pockets in the front seatbacks. Ample storage is provided by bins with bottle holders in all four doors.
The graphical LCD meter panel presents essential driver information in a clear and concise manner. The display intuitively shows power consumption, regenerative braking status, battery charge level, and the hybrid drive system’s energy flow. The 8-inch high-definition Display Audio touchscreen offers an intuitive interface for navigation and connectivity. Standard Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation is included, along with seamless support for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ via USB.
HondaLink® app compatibility allows drivers to remotely interact with their Honda Clarity, providing real-time charge level and range information, vehicle location services, and remote cabin pre-conditioning. The HondaLink® app also includes StationFinder, assisting drivers in locating nearby EV charging stations and providing turn-by-turn directions.
Reflecting Honda’s commitment to sustainability, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid interior incorporates environmentally responsible materials, including plant-derived and recycled components. Plant-based materials are sourced from non-edible plant oils, ensuring no impact on the food supply chain.
The Honda Clarity boasts a generous trunk capacity of 15.5 cubic feet, among the largest in its class, made possible by the under-floor placement of the IPU and battery pack. The trunk easily accommodates four large golf bags and features a 60/40-split folding rear seatback for enhanced cargo versatility.
Body and Exterior: Aerodynamic and Advanced
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid’s exterior is a fusion of futuristic aesthetics and functional design, dimensionally akin to the contemporary 2018 Accord sedan. Exterior highlights include advanced aerodynamic treatments, full LED lighting, high-efficiency Smart Clear Wipers, and a palette of six available exterior colors, including the exclusive Moonlit Forest Pearl.
The expressive, aerodynamic, and advanced exterior design of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid establishes a new benchmark for plug-in hybrid vehicles. The front-end styling is distinctive, featuring LED DRLs and LED headlamps, a harmonious blend of sharp angles and flowing curves, and high-tech aerodynamic elements, all centered around an unmistakable Honda grille. The body sides are sculpted to manage airflow, enabling the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid to move through the air with minimal resistance. Front air curtains, rear tire covers, and rear air curtains, along with chrome garnishes and a unique color palette, are signature design elements of the Honda Clarity series.
Key Exterior and Body Features:
- LED headlights (hi-lo beam and DRL) and taillamps
- Smart Clear Wipers
- Approximately 40 percent ultra-high-strength steel body structure
- Glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) rear bumper beam
- Aluminum hood, front fenders, doors, trunk lid, and rear parcel shelf
- Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure
- Acoustic glass windshield and front door glass
- Triple door sealing
Dimensionally, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid measures 192.7 inches in length, 73.9 inches in width, and 58.2 inches in height, with a 108.3-inch wheelbase, closely mirroring the 2018 Honda Accord sedan in key dimensions. This generous sizing provides a significant advantage in its segment compared to other plug-in hybrid vehicles in its price range.
A comprehensive aerodynamics package is integral to the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid’s mission as a technologically advanced, energy-efficient, and image-leading vehicle. Beyond its inherently sleek form, the Honda Clarity incorporates numerous wind-tunnel-tested details to optimize energy efficiency and minimize wind noise. These include precisely sized front fascia inlet openings for engine cooling, specialized radiator ducting, a full underfloor cover, front fender and rear door air curtains, partial rear tire covers, C-pillar shaping to minimize rear vortexes, and even taillight lenses with a “washboard” surface to smooth airflow.
Noise reduction is a key focus, achieved through acoustic laminated windshield and front door glass, along with extensive use of noise insulators under the hood, instrument panel, floor, and within the wheelhouses. Liquid-filled rear suspension bushings further contribute to a serene and high-quality driving experience.
Lightweighting is achieved through advanced material applications, reducing body-in-white weight by approximately 15 percent compared to a conventional mid-size sedan. 55 percent of the body utilizes lightweight materials, including ultra-high-strength steel, aluminum, and plastic. Aluminum is extensively used for components like the hood, fenders, doors, and trunk lid.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is equipped with comprehensive LED exterior lighting, including bright LED DRLs and high-low beams, LED side marker lights, LED front turn signals, and LED taillights. Smart Clear Wipers enhance driver visibility by improving outward visibility during washing solution spraying and reducing washing solution usage. The nozzle jets are integrated into the wiper blades, optimizing cleaning efficiency.
Exterior color options for the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid include six distinctive choices, with Moonlit Forest Pearl being exclusive to this model. All colors feature a deep clear coat for a brilliant finish.
Chassis Dynamics: Balancing Fun-to-Drive with Refinement
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid seamlessly blends Honda’s renowned “fun-to-drive” DNA with a smooth, quiet, and highly refined driving experience. This is facilitated by specialized engineering features, including a low center of gravity and liquid-filled suspension bushings.
The low center of gravity, a result of the vehicle’s design and battery placement, contributes to reduced pitching during acceleration and braking, as well as minimized body roll during cornering. This results in a composed ride quality, further enhanced by the electric motor’s seamless and immediate power delivery, elevating the Honda Clarity driving experience to near-luxury levels of refinement and responsiveness.
The high-rigidity body structure of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid provides a robust foundation for the suspension system, which includes lightweight front and rear subframes, a MacPherson front strut suspension, and a five-link rear suspension. Frequency Response Dampers automatically adjust damping force for smooth and agile handling. Lightweight front suspension components, including forged aluminum lower arms and hollow cast iron steering knuckles, reduce weight, while liquid-filled bushings in the lower arms minimize noise and vibration. Rear suspension arms are made of forged aluminum, achieving a 40 percent weight reduction compared to steel designs. The front subframe, a hollow die-cast aluminum component, further reduces weight by 20 percent.
Complementing the sophisticated hybrid powertrain, the chassis is meticulously engineered to provide a quiet and refined driving experience. The suspension and bushings are tuned for low harshness and a high degree of smoothness. Dual-Pinion Electric Power Steering (EPS) delivers quick, agile, and smooth cornering response, with excellent steering linearity.
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid rides on 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels featuring aerodynamic covers to reduce drag and improve brake cooling. Specially designed 235/45R18 Michelin Energy Saver A/S tires offer an ideal balance of traction, low rolling resistance, and quiet, smooth driving characteristics.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Honda Sensing® and ACE™ Body Structure
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid prioritizes safety, sharing its Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technologies with the Clarity Fuel Cell and Clarity Electric models.
The ACE™ body structure and a 2-system load path structure enable the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid to effectively absorb and distribute crash energy from frontal, side, and rear impacts, maintaining the integrity of the passenger cabin. Batteries are positioned in protective under-floor locations to enhance collision safety.
Honda Sensing® Suite of Safety and Driver-Assistive Features:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Uses radar and a camera to detect vehicles ahead and can alert the driver and apply automatic emergency braking to help avoid or mitigate collisions.
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM): Employs a camera to identify lane lines and uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) or Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) to help keep the vehicle in its lane or prevent road departures.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow: Allows drivers to set a desired speed and following interval, enabling cruise control use in light traffic conditions.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Uses a camera to read lane markings and EPS to provide steering assistance to help maintain lane position, reducing driver steering effort.
Standard Honda LaneWatch™ provides a wide-angle view of the passenger side roadway on the touchscreen when the right turn signal is activated, while a multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines assists with parking and maneuvering.
Trims and Accessories: Customizing Your Honda Clarity
The 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is available in two well-equipped trims:
Plug-In Hybrid (Base Trim) Key Features:
- 18″ alloy wheels
- LED headlights, taillights & DRLs
- Auto on/off headlights
- Smart entry & start
- Honda Sensing® safety suite
- LaneWatch™
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Rear HVAC vents
- 60/40 folding rear seat
- 8″ Display Audio system
- 8-speaker 180W audio system
- Bluetooth HandsFreeLink®
- Rearview camera
- Heated front seats
Touring Trim (Adds to Base Trim):
- Satellite-based navigation system
- Leather-trimmed seating
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- 8-way power driver seat with 2-way memory
- 4-way power passenger seat
Available Accessories:
A range of accessories allows owners to personalize their Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, including:
- 18″ Alloy Wheel upgrades
- Decklid Spoiler
- Chrome Door Garnish
- Illuminated Side Sills
- Ambient Lighting
- Back-Up Sensors
- Splash Guards
- Body Side Molding
- Door Edge Film and Rear Bumper Applique
- Wheel Locks, Car Cover, and All-Season Mats
- Trunk Tray and Organizer, Cargo Net and Hook
- Center Console Mat and Ash Tray
- Engine Block Heater
The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid stands as a testament to Honda’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and providing spacious and refined electrified vehicles. With its impressive electric range, versatile hybrid powertrain, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features, the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is a compelling choice for drivers seeking a forward-thinking and environmentally conscious sedan.
