The Tokyo auto salon, not to be confused with the Tokyo auto show, is similar to the SEMA show in that it’s all about customization. So it makes sense that it’s the time to shine for Honda’s in-house accessory division, called Honda Access. With its three design concepts created specifically for the show, Honda Access let its freak flag fly, taking existing Japan-market Honda vehicles and turning them into funky, eye-catching vehicles that are much more interesting to look at than any Hondas we get here in the United States.
The first is the S660 Neo Classic prototype, based on the diminutive S660 roadster sold in Japan that competes in the kei-car class in Honda’s home market. It retains the S660’s mid-engine layout but affixes completely different front- and rear-end designs that give the tiny Honda a much more retro-inspired look. With its round headlights and tapered rear end, it almost reminds us of the equally retro Nissan Figaro from 1991. It was inspired by a design concept shown last year; the “prototype” label for this version of the S660 means that Honda is even considering mass production for such a vehicle (only for Japan, we assume).
Honda’s Acty kei-car mini-pickup was the base for the butch T880 concept. Its ultra-boxy body and normcore beige paint job make for an adorable little trucklet with a distinctive split-tailgate design. Don’t expect to haul much, however, as the Acty’s three-cylinder engine displaces less than 1.0 liter and makes around 45 horsepower—a far cry from the Ridgeline, let alone a Ford F-150 or a Chevrolet Silverado.
Lastly, the Honda Access team played with the Vezel crossover, known as the HR-V in the United States. With a significantly lifted ride height, a completely different front end, and aggressive off-road tires, the Vezel Gear looks much more off-road ready than the decidedly milquetoast crossover it’s based on. An open-air rear end also gives it a beachy vibe, and the interior has searing yellow accents for the dashboard, the steering wheel, and the seats.
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