2018 Honda Freed Review

Detailed Review

The Honda Freed has undergone two generations of production. The first generation was in production from 2008 to 2016. This mini multi-purpose vehicle is currently in its second iteration of production which has come with some minor improvements.

The 2018 Honda Freed comes with two engine options, a 1.5 L (Petrol), and a 1.5 L (Hybrid) connected to either a 7-speeed automatic transmission or CVT. Refer to the 2018 Honda Freed Buyer’s Guide for a comprehensive overview that is tailored specifically to your preferences and budget for unparalleled value and savings in your car purchasing journey. 

2018 Honda Freed Grades

1. Honda Freed G- This grade comes with halogen headlights, fabric seats, a 12-volt power outlet, AM/FM Radio, anti-lock braking system, and power windows.
2. Honda Freed X- This grade has LED headlights, power sliding doors, a keyless entry and start, fog lights, alloy wheels, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
3. Honda Freed G Aero- This grade is a sportier version and boasts side skirts, a roof spoiler, sports seats, Bluetooth connectivity, power mirrors, and power sliding doors.
4. Honda Freed Hybrid EX- This grade is fitted with a navigation system, a moonroof, power windows, AM/FM Radio, electronic brake force distribution and a 12-volt power output.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Honda Freed has spacious cabin that is plain and basic. It comes in a 5-seater, 6-seater, and 7-seater configurations. The first row offers sufficient legroom and headroom and its seats can recline to fit a desired posture. The second row boasts comfy seats that have adequate knee room and headroom. The third row seat is only ideal to kids or even pets as adults will find it crampy.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Honda Freed feature numerous storage compartments that are intended to improve the ride comfort of its occupants. The first row includes two cupholders, door panel storage, a glove box compartment, and a retractable tray. The second row passengers have access to door pockets. The third row seat have cupholders.

Boot Space

The 2018 Honda Freed has a small cargo area when the third row seat is up. The second and third row seats can be retracted to create more space.

Exterior

The 2018 Honda Freed has a dynamic and sporty appearance. The front end is distinguished by its slanting nose and a nicely curved grille adorned with the Honda badge used to assert its presence. Headlights and LED daytime running lights lend it a refined and modern look. Air vents and fog lights which come in handy when driving in dusty areas are incorporated in the lower bumper.

Contours running from the front wheel arches to the taillights are visible. The sliding doors on either side are electronically actuated and they allow passengers to effortlessly board or alight from this mini MPV. Higher grades come with a sunroof for ambient lighting and roof rails to improve the overall appearance of the Honda Freed.

The rear encompasses a powered tailgate as well as a roof spoiler that enhances its sportiness. Taillights and turn signals are also present.

2018 Honda Freed Safety Features

The 2018 Honda Freed features multiple airbags, stability control, blind spot monitoring, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, child safety locks, a tire pressure monitoring system, and an anti-lock braking system.

2018 Honda Freed Fuel Consumption

2018 Honda Freed 1.5 L petrol engine consumption- 16.1 km/l on average

2018 Honda Freed 1.5 L hybrid engine consumption- 27.5 km/l on average

2018 Honda Freed Acceleration

2018 Honda Freed 1.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.0 secs

2018 Honda Freed 1.5 L hybrid engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.9 secs

The 2018 Honda Freed Fuel Tank Capacity: 36 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 Honda Freed has a ground clearance of 6.4 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts for the Honda Freed are generally affordable and available in Kenya. Body parts are slightly expensive and not easy to find.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Honda Freed has a pleasant and smooth drive. Its comfort is top-notch but that comes at the expense of handling. The power-assisted steering wheel has a responsive and precise feedback hence the driver does not require any effort to steer it. The cabin is well-insulated to prevent outside noise from causing discomfort to the passengers. The suspension system is up to the task as it ensures the passengers enjoy their ride by cushioning them from unstable motions picked when driving on uneven road surfaces.

Due to its slanting nose, occupants enjoy an excellent view. The brakes are robust and capable of bringing this car to a complete stop very fast hence avoiding any kind of collision. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and decent acceleration.

Because its an inch lower than the required ground clearance of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads, driving it on extreme off-road trails will damage its body components. Other technologies encompassed in this mini MPV to improve its handling and stability include anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Reliability

The 2018 Honda Freed is considered a reliable car. Due to its low ground clearance, off-road driving should be avoided. Transmission issues and malfunctioning of the power sliding doors are the most commonly reported issues in this mini MPV. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such problems.

Refer to the 2018 Honda Freed Buyer’s Guide for a comprehensive overview that is tailored specifically to your preferences and budget for unparalleled value and savings in your car purchasing journey. 

Resale Value: Average

Honda Freed Competitors:  Toyota Passo Sette, Toyota Sienta, VW Touran, Mazda Premacy, Nissan Lafesta, and Peugeot Partner.

What we like about the 2018 Honda Freed

Stellar fuel economy

Spacious and versatile interior

Comfortable ride

What we don’t

Small cargo space behind the third-row seat

Conclusion

The 2018 Honda Freed continues to win the hearts of Kenyan drivers owing to its stellar fuel economy, comfortable ride, reliability, and a spacious cabin that can be easily configured to carry people or ferry goods. Even though its rivals have a bigger boot space, it distinguishes itself with its wide array of modern safety features. Individuals on a tight budget can afford to own the 2018 Honda Freed as its acquisition cost as well as service and maintenance are reasonable.