Before talking about this article’s car, though, it’s important to talk about its name. Most people associate Shuttle to Honda thinking of a whole different product. The first time this automaker used it was to name a full-size minivan, which was marketed from 1995 to 1999. But this one was a rebadged sister of Odyssey’s first generation – just like Oasis, which was the only minivan ever sold by Isuzu. Here, in turn, we’re talking about a station wagon that comes from Fit’s project. Its was first released four years ago as Fit Shuttle, taking after the microvan’s second generation, and only for the Japanese market. Since its reception seems to have been positive enough, not only did Honda decide to give it a new iteration, it also took the opportunity to invest a little more in it.
The first result of this new strategy is its very name: dropping the “Fit” helps detaching it from that car and, with a little imagination, attaching it to the full-size van. This is particularly beneficial for this car because it was intended to attract those customers who liked Fit’s concept, but could really use even more internal space. Therefore, you’ll find Fit’s exact same cabin until the rear bench, but with a much bigger trunk right behind it. As you have certainly figured by now, the new Shuttle comes with the very same system for folding the (five) seats, which means it’ll be possible to suit them to whatever proportion of cargo and people you have to transport at any moment. Besides, like pretty much any other people-hauler, storage areas exist aplenty.
Everything sounds very good so far, but it only takes a look at the pictures to notice that Honda’s cost-cutting tricks had a catch. The aforementioned extra investment was dedicated to make Shuttle look more upscale. This is noticed mostly at the front and the rear, which are completely different from Fit’s: the automaker sprung for whole changes there, including the lights, and the results really pay off. However, it’s hard not to think they are a compensation for the sides. Since it decided to keep Fit’s wheelbase and doors, Shuttle’s exclusive portion looks too lumpy. The rear overhang is too long, and the third windows are laughable: the original window line was abruptly interrupted, and replaced by horizontal lines all the way to the tailgate, in an attempt to create a floating-roof effect.
When it comes to powertrain, the new Shuttle puts a smile on everyone who appreciates fuel efficiency just like any other modern Japanese automobile does. The gasoline version uses a regular 1.5-liter engine and front-wheel drive, while the hybrid combines an Atkinson-cycle 1.5-liter to an electric motor, along with double-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive. Performance information haven’t been disclosed yet, but you can expect figures very similar to those of the equivalent Fits. Like its previous generation, this vehicle will be sold only in Japan. Everywhere else, it would certainly attract the same buyers who currently buy the sportier HR-V or the more affordable Fit, but with its sales performance heavily affected by its “particular” styling.