History of Honda Freed 1.5G Hybrid Sensing (FL2020)
The Honda Freed, first produced in Japan in 2008, arrived with an innovative concept. Replacing the first-generation Mobilio in Japan, the Honda Freed is a mini MPV based on the Fit/Jazz segment. It was initially designed for Japanese consumers’ needs, but it was later distinguished and shipped out internationally. It is most famous in the neighbouring Southeast Asian countries.
In that same year, the first-generation Honda Freed was introduced and made available in three different versions. Early on, it already has that side lift-up seat and passenger lift-up seat to give a more cargo volume option. It also features a low-floor and low-centre-of-gravity technology that makes it attractive to all ages and styles with its modern exterior styling, spacious interior, and driving dynamics.
The Honda Freed was slightly modified in terms of engine and seating availability in various Southeast Asian markets, such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Singapore, where it was made available. The Indonesian market was offered a 7-seating variant and a 5-speed automatic transmission instead of CVT in Japan.
There were several trim levels (A, S, E, E-Sport, and E-Sport NAVI) to choose from, and it perfectly catered to a broad audience preference. In 2010, the Honda Freed Spike version was produced exclusively for the Japanese market, as it is a compact multi-wagon for a lifestyle that is on the go. Later in 2011, Freed’s facelifted version was introduced and made a big hit in the Japanese market.
The second generation of the Honda Freed was unveiled in June 2016 and was later released in September 2016. The idea of dynamism and functionality came to life in this latest generation. It’s remarkably curvier than its predecessor and now has an updated grille and lights. It still has the sliding door feature but only with a few minor improvements.
In 2019, the facelifted version of the second-generation Honda Freed was released. Brand new and well-re-invented, the facelifted Honda Freed arrives with a more powerful engine, premium technology, and even more stylish. It’s more robust and more efficient with its Honda Sensing Technology, propelled by the DOHC i-VTEC In-line 4-cylinder engine, and has a 1496 cc engine capacity, partnered with the i-VTEC technology.
Best known for its convenient Smart Key system, comfortable driving experience, wide range of cargo arrangements, and top-level fuel economy, one can never go wrong with the Honda Freed 1.5G Hybrid Sensing. Meanwhile, Japan and Indonesia hold the largest market for Honda Freed.