When you see the Dongfeng Honda S7, the stereotype of joint venture cars as “traditional and uncreative” may shatter. The design, features, and technology of the Dongfeng Honda S7 show significant breakthroughs. It is quite impressive. On March 6, this pure electric SUV, which showcases Dongfeng Honda’s evolution towards the high-end market, officially launched. There are two models available, priced at 259,900 and 309,900 yuan (42840$).
The official presentation differed from many traditional car launches. They did not follow the usual script about appearance, interior, space, and power. Instead, they posed a series of questions and technical analyses. They discussed the “excess” performance of electric vehicles. They also shared their considerations about the A-pillar. The new car, which arrived “half-naked,” added to the freshness of the event.
The S7 embodies contradictions. It is very Honda. It emphasizes driving experience and clings to traditional technology. It feels very masculine. Yet, it also strays from Honda’s roots. Its design is modern and even avant-garde. It keeps pace with current trends and meets the needs of young people. Additionally, it advances in smart and electric technologies.
The design speaks for itself. The wide, low stance impresses. Hidden electric door handles add elegance. The 21-inch black wheels enhance the sporty look. The H-shaped light strip completes the dynamic appearance.
The interior stands out with its unique features. The “MM concept” continues in this electric model. The new car measures 4750mm in length. It offers a wheelbase of 2930mm, which is impressive for a C-class vehicle. The space performance is also very good.
The Dongfeng Honda S7 features unique designs. It has a surround heating system with 15 heating zones. Users can adjust the heat in three levels. The new model introduces a smart light language system. It includes 14 illuminated panels on the doors and center console. These panels connect with up to 38 functions inside the car.
In terms of intelligence, the new car upgrades hardware and software based on HondaCONNECT 4.0. The AI voice assistant and smart AI model, powered by Doubao and Alibaba Cloud, allow users to interact and easily obtain information. Honda SENSING 360+ appears on the Dongfeng Honda S7. This L2+ level driving assistance system includes features like highway navigation assistance, automatic lane change, and curve departure warning. The hardware includes 5 to 9 cameras, 5 millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars.
There are two power options. The single-motor rear-drive version delivers 200 kW and 420 N·m. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive version reaches a total power of 350 kW and accelerates in 4.5 seconds. Honda is the only manufacturer involved in both F1 and Moto GP. Performance and driving define Honda’s brand. This time, Honda created the exclusive “W” Yunchi architecture for Chinese consumers. This architecture features a balanced 50:50 weight distribution and a double wishbone suspension. It includes a large top-mounted stabilizer bar and emphasizes a sporty rear-drive platform. This marks Honda’s first independent development of a 50:50 rear-drive platform since the legendary S2000. This layout improves cornering limits and reduces understeer and oversteer during aggressive driving. The double wishbone suspension effectively controls pitch during acceleration and braking, preventing nosedive and lift. The new car uses a CATL 89.8 kWh ternary lithium battery. The single-motor version has a range of 650 km under CLTC conditions, while the dual-motor version offers 620 km. It supports 800V fast charging. The battery cells utilize CATL’s unique PPB-grade cells and a traditional CTM module layout. Thirteen cells can be replaced individually, significantly lowering long-term maintenance costs for owners.
In the fierce market competition, Dongfeng Honda faces significant pressure. Despite this, it does not follow the crowd or rush decisions. Instead, it stays true to its traditional car-making principles. It continuously reflects on the market, technology, and brand user needs. The Dongfeng Honda S7 is a timely response. As a product, it is interesting and diverse. It will not disappoint the loyal Honda customers.