2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
The 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offers a compelling blend of electric efficiency and gasoline practicality, making it a strong contender in the electrified sedan market. It's designed for drivers who want to reduce their fuel consumption and emissions without the range anxiety often associated with fully electric vehicles.
Highlights
- Powertrain: The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is equipped with a 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. This combination delivers a total system output of 212 horsepower. The standout feature is its 89 MPGe (Miles Per Gallon equivalent) city and 77 MPGe highway rating, showcasing its exceptional fuel efficiency. It also boasts an all-electric range of 47 miles on a full charge, allowing for many daily commutes without using gasoline.
- Safety Features: Honda has equipped the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid with a suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies under the Honda Sensing® suite as standard. Key features include:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Helps brake the vehicle when it detects a potential frontal collision.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Can steer the vehicle back into its lane or apply braking if it detects the car is unintentionally drifting off the road.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, making highway driving more relaxed.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by making subtle steering corrections.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI): Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.
- Cross Traffic Monitor: Detects approaching vehicles from the side when the car is in reverse.
- Trims: The 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is offered in two distinct trims:
- Clarity Plug-In Hybrid: This is the entry-level trim, offering a comprehensive package of comfort and convenience features.
- Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Touring: This premium trim builds upon the base model by adding desirable upgrades such as a premium audio system, heated leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and memory driver's seat settings, elevating the cabin experience.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: Despite its sedan profile, the Clarity offers a surprisingly roomy cabin with ample passenger space, particularly for front-seat occupants.
- Intuitive Infotainment: The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively.
- Charging Flexibility: The Clarity supports Level 2 charging, allowing for a full charge in about 2.5 hours.
What to Expect
Ownership of the 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid typically revolves around its efficient powertrain and comfortable driving experience. You can expect to make frequent use of its electric-only range for daily commutes, significantly reducing your reliance on gasoline. Charging at home overnight on a Level 2 charger is the most convenient way to keep the battery topped up.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance will be similar to other gasoline-powered vehicles, with oil changes and filter replacements still being part of the schedule. However, the hybrid system, including the electric motor and battery, is designed to be reliable and generally requires less frequent attention than traditional internal combustion engines. Specific hybrid component inspections might be recommended by Honda at certain mileage intervals.
Insurance: Insurance costs for the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid will likely be in line with other mid-size sedans. However, the advanced safety features and the presence of a hybrid powertrain might slightly influence premiums. It's always advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to ensure you secure the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Potential Considerations
- Trunk Space: While the interior is spacious, the placement of the battery pack does intrude on trunk space, resulting in a smaller cargo area compared to some gasoline-powered sedans in its class.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness: While generally user-friendly, some users have noted that the infotainment system's touchscreen can occasionally be a bit slow to respond.
- Engine Noise Under Heavy Acceleration: When the gasoline engine needs to engage for more power, it can become noticeably audible, which might be a minor point of contention for those accustomed to the silent operation of electric mode.
- No All-Wheel Drive Option: The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is only available with front-wheel drive, which might be a consideration for those living in regions with severe winter weather.
Overall Summary
The 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is a practical and efficient choice for individuals or families seeking to reduce their fuel costs and environmental impact. Its impressive electric-only range, comfortable ride, and standard suite of advanced safety features make it a well-rounded sedan. While its trunk space is somewhat compromised, its overall value proposition, particularly its exceptional fuel economy, makes it a standout in the plug-in hybrid segment.