The Honda N-Box is a kei car that Honda manufactures for the Japanese market, and it can also be obtained locally as a grey import. Alongside models like the N-WGN, N-One, and N-Van, it belongs to Honda’s newly revamped N lineup of kei-class city cars. The letter “N” in the name harkens back to its usage in the late 1960s and 1970s for the N360 model.

Starting with the second-generation N-Box, which was introduced in 2017, the vehicle is offered in an astonishing array of variations across a number of updates. In fact, it’s challenging to ascertain the exact number of different variants Honda has produced, with the count surpassing 25 variants at the latest tally.

Regardless of the trim specification, the Honda N-Box adheres to the regulations governing kei cars, featuring a 660cc 3-cylinder engine. Depending on the specific model, this engine may be equipped with or without a turbocharger.

Most N-Box versions are designed with front-wheel drive, although there are 4-wheel drive models available as well. When it comes to transmission options, the choice between a manual or an automatic transmission depends on the particular model.

Despite its diminutive size, the N-Box is surprisingly practical and features excellent safety features with multiple reports stating modern kei cars are as safe as locally available small cars.

What goes wrong with a used Honda N-Box?

Exterior:

We could find no reports of common issues.

Interior:

Short of rare complaints regarding aftermarket infotainment systems, we could find no reports of common issues.

Mechanically:

Extremely reliable. 

It’s important to remember Honda built their reputation for superb reliability by building some of the very best motorcycle engines, so if ever a company were efficient with small engines, it’s Honda.

Plus, the kei car market is extremely competitive in Japan, with manufacturers selling vehicles based on their efficiency and reliability, the N-Box features very impressive longevity results.

However, like all engines, eventually, there is the chance of the usual coil pack or possibly water pump failure. The only issue may be sourcing the parts required to fix them; however, we doubt that, with the correct servicing and maintenance, this would ever be a cause for concern.

Should you buy a used Honda N-Box?

The Honda N-Box offers not only exceptional driving enjoyment but also a substantial dose of real-world efficiency and practicality. It exudes a genuine sense of fun and personality.

Interestingly, vehicles that typically deliver this level of enjoyment, such as hot hatches, performance cars, or rugged off-roaders, tend to prioritise their capabilities and engagement for a style of driving that, for many, constitutes just about 10% of their time behind the wheel.

Conversely, the N-Box is dedicated to making the remaining 90% of your time on the road a delightful experience. It consistently provides more fun and enjoyment while perfectly meeting all the practical needs of everyday driving.

Should you consider buying one? Absolutely, you should. In fact, we all should consider it, as having more of these on the road would contribute to making the world a better place.