Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid
With a wind-cheating shape (inspired by Honda’s FCX Concept car), the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid looks like a car from the future. It also boasts a remarkably fuel-efficient powertrain, which is capable of up to 48 miles of all-electric range. Owners of the model give it high marks for these qualities as well as for its well-appointed cabin, low running costs, and comfortable ride. On the downside, some find the Clarity’s infotainment system cumbersome to use. Also, its lithium-ion battery pack impinges on rear-seat legroom, which measures some four inches less than that of the similarly sized Accord.
With a wind-cheating shape (inspired by Honda’s FCX Concept car), the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid looks like a car from the future. It also boasts a remarkably fuel-efficient powertrain, which is capable of up to 48 miles of all-electric range. Owners of the model give it high marks for these qualities as well as for its well-appointed cabin, low running costs, and comfortable ride. On the downside, some find the Clarity’s infotainment system cumbersome to use. Also, its lithium-ion battery pack impinges on rear-seat legroom, which measures some four inches less than that of the similarly sized Accord.
Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid Model Lineup
Produced from 2018 through 2021, the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid is a midsize sedan with room for up to five people. Roughly the same size as the Accord, the Clarity was Honda’s only plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model at the time. The Japanese automaker also built two all-electric versions, the Clarity Electric and Clarity Fuel Cell, which were sold in limited numbers in California and Oregon only.
The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid comes in two trims: the base model and the better-equipped Touring. Standard features include LED headlights, keyless entry and ignition, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Also standard is Honda’s active safety suite (called Honda Sensing), which includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assist. Stepping up to the Touring trim adds leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and navigation.
Under the hood, the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid utilizes a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a 17-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The combination produces a total of 212 horsepower, which is routed to the front wheels (only) via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The PHEV powertrain is capable of up to 48 miles of all-electric range, according to EPA estimates. Once depleted, the battery pack can be recharged in about two and a half hours when plugged into a 240-volt household outlet.