“On long trips expect frequent gas station stops. It only has a 7 1/2 gallon tank and doesn't seem to recharge and use the batteries while driving.”
2020 Honda Clarity: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
For 2020, Honda dropped the fully electric Clarity, leaving the Plug-In Hybrid and hydrogen Fuel Cell versions. Those remaining models received only small updates to their pedestrian warning sound and a steering-wheel control.
About the 2020 Honda Clarity
2017-2021 Clarity sedan generation; 2020 is a late-cycle year with minor updates rather than a redesign.
Honda positions the Clarity as an alternative-powertrain midsize sedan that makes electrified driving feel practical and familiar. In Plug-In Hybrid form it emphasizes electric commuting with gasoline backup; in Fuel Cell form it emphasizes zero-emission driving with quick hydrogen refueling. Across the range, Honda sells the Clarity on seating for five, a quiet cabin, standard Honda Sensing safety tech, and everyday sedan comfort instead of experimental-car compromises.
The 2020 lineup centers on plug-in hybrid and hydrogen fuel-cell sedans with roomy five-seat cabins and useful everyday equipment. The standard trim has an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heated front seats, and Honda's driver-assistance suite; the Plug-In Hybrid Touring adds leather seating, power front seats, and built-in navigation.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The battery-electric powertrain left the Base trim, ending the fully electric Clarity for 2020. The Plug-In Hybrid and hydrogen Fuel Cell powertrains carried over without changes.
Safety
The low-speed pedestrian warning sound starts as soon as the car is shifted into gear and sounds louder in reverse.
Tech
The MAIN switch on the steering wheel moved slightly left for easier reach.
2020 Honda Clarity specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Hydrogen Fuel Cell Stack w/Electric Motor / 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 1.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear / Automatic, eCVT | Automatic, eCVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Hydrogen / Plug-In Hybrid | Plug-In Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 174 hp | |
| Torque | 99–221 lb-ft | 99 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 11.8–15.5 cu-ft | 15.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.2–36.7 in | 36.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 360 (Hydrogen); 48 (Plug-In Hybrid) | 48 |
| MPGe Combined | 68 (Hydrogen); 110 (Plug-In Hybrid) | 110 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Side View Cameras | ||
| Top View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Heated Mirrors | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Satellite Radio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Subwoofer | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
Did Honda discontinue the fully electric Clarity for 2020?
Yes. Honda dropped the battery-electric powertrain from the Base trim for 2020, while the Plug-In Hybrid and hydrogen Fuel Cell versions continued.
Was the 2020 Honda Clarity redesigned?
No. The 2020 Clarity remained part of the generation introduced for 2017 and received only minor updates rather than a redesign.
How did the 2020 Clarity's pedestrian warning sound change?
The warning sound begins as soon as the car is shifted into gear for 2020, and it is louder when the car is reversing. The change applies to the Plug-In Hybrid and Fuel Cell models.
Did the 2020 Clarity Plug-In Hybrid or Fuel Cell receive powertrain upgrades?
No. The Plug-In Hybrid and hydrogen Fuel Cell powertrains carried over without changes for 2020.
What distinguishes the 2020 Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Touring?
The Touring is the more upscale 2020 Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. It adds perforated leather-trimmed seats, power front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and built-in navigation.
2020 Honda Clarity Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Honda Clarity.
4.2
2020 Honda Clarity
(148 reviews)
“Well worth the need to plan for your fueling. Gets me everywhere I want to go and my adult son often borrows my car for long trips because its comfortable, fast, and the fuel is free.”
“In the simplest possible terms:Get the all around best car on the market today, a new 2020 or 2021 Plug-in Hybrid Honda Clarity. You will thank me forever.”