If you’re a Honda devotee but need a minivan, the Odyssey is the only option you have. But if you are in Japan, the minibus options are much more diverse. There you have models like the adorable N-Box and N-Van, the subcompact Freed, the JDM version of the Odyssey, and the boxy Step WGN.
But our target for today is the Step WGN, because there is a brand new model in Japan. The Honda minivan is still boxy and upright like all of its predecessors, and it still looks quirky. Three model ranges are offered for the 2022 Step WGN, namely Air, Spada and Spada Premium Line.
Unfortunately, the new Step WGN has lost one of its fun features. It would be the awesome three-way hatchback used in the previous generation. Instead, the Model 2022 reverts to a simpler design with the door opening just upwards. The previous version featured a pair of asymmetric doors that hinged sideways and could also be opened in one piece upwards. It was called the Waku Waku gate, which roughly translates to “pleasant gate” or “throbbing gate.”
As for the rest of the Step WGN’s bodywork, Honda said this makes the pickup longer, wider and taller than before. Honda also opted for a more minimalist exterior with straighter angles and fewer lines. The Air version has rectangular headlights, a slim grille and minimal lighting. Meanwhile, the Spada and Spada Premium Line have more chrome, a larger grille, a tailgate spoiler and a deeper front apron.
But the highlight of the all-new Step WGN is the interior. The van offers generous headroom, while the large windows make the cabin light and airy thanks to the wider body. Up front, the dash follows Honda’s straighter look, as seen in the all-new HR-V and Civic. A large floating screen dominates the center console, and there’s also a shelf just above the glove box. As with most cars these days, the Step WGN’s dashboard is digital.
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The second row of the Step WGN consists of a pair of captain’s chairs. Unlike most, these seats can move side to side, back and forth. According to Honda, this allows one of the second row seats to be closer to the front so parents can easily reach their children. In addition, the second and third row seats can be reclined flat to form a bed.
As of yet, Honda has not revealed the specifications for the powertrain. That said, it will have hybrid and non-hybrid versions. The gasoline-electric model benefits from Honda’s latest e-HEV hybrid drive system. Additionally, the Step-WGN hybrid has a push-button gear selector, while the non-hybrid uses a conventional lever.
Honda is unlikely to produce a left-hand drive version of the Step WGN. There is also a slight chance that this model will be destined for export outside of Japan. At most, it could be offered in Hong Kong and Macao, just like the outgoing model.
