Honda will release the sports grade “e:HEV RS” of its best-selling compact SUV model “Vezel” on October 24, 2025. The price is 3,748,800 yen for the FF (2WD) and 3,968,800 yen for the 4WD.
Honda Vezel’s long-awaited sports grade “e:HEV RS” returns to Japan on October 24, 2025
honda vezel rs
The current Vezel will undergo a full model change in April 2021, followed by major improvements in April 2024. The newly introduced “e:HEV RS” is a noteworthy model that brings back to the Japanese market the “RS” grade, which was available in the previous generation but was only available overseas in the current model.
Furthermore, the Vezel RS is the first to offer a 4WD model, meeting a wide range of needs, including those in snowy regions. As part of the “RS series” following the N-ONE, Fit, and Civic, it is a strategic model that will lead Honda’s sports image.
The biggest feature of the new Honda Vezel e:HEV RS
VEZEL ehev rs 2025
Grand Concept “URBAN SPORT VEZEL”
The new Vezel e:HEV RS was developed based on the concept of a “sports SUV that can race through the city.” While retaining the Vezel’s coupe-like proportions, it achieves a design and driving performance that emphasizes its sportiness.
Overall height of 1,545mm, suitable for mechanical multi-story parking garages
honda vezel rs
Considering ease of use in urban areas, the overall height has been set at 1,545mm. This makes it possible to park in a typical mechanical multi-story parking garage (height limit 1,550mm). Considering that the overall height of the standard grade is 1,590mm, this has lowered the vehicle height by 45mm.
This reduction in vehicle height was achieved by eliminating the shark fin antenna that was installed on the roof and placing a glass print type antenna on the rear window, reducing the vehicle height by 30 mm, and by adopting a special suspension that lowers the vehicle by a further 15 mm.
Vezel RS’s first 4WD setup
The previous generation Vezel RS was only available in FF (2WD) format, but the new e:HEV RS is the first to offer a 4WD model. Honda’s “Real Time AWD” system delivers stable driving performance even in bad weather and on snow. This means that drivers in snowy regions can now enjoy driving the RS.
Exterior design of the new Vezel e:HEV RS | Low and wide, powerful styling
RS-specific front design
The front face of the new Vezel e:HEV RS features a special design that sets it apart from the standard model.
- RS-specific front grille : wider and more powerful design
- Front bumper lower grille : Special shape that emphasizes sportiness
- Dark chrome-plated bumper moldings : placed on the front and rear to emphasize the low and wide form
- RS emblem : A special red emblem is placed on the front and rear
Side view | Low and wide stance
- Dark chrome door lower garnish : Decoration across the entire side enhances the wide and low style.
- 18-inch aluminum wheels : Berlina Black + dark cut clear special design
- Black door mirrors : complete the sporty exterior look
Rear design
- RS-specific rear bumper molding : Dark chrome plating enhances the texture
- RS emblem : Red sports emblem on the rear
- Glass printed antenna : Eliminates the shark fin antenna for a sleeker look
Body size comparison
| item | e:HEV RS | Regular grade | difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,385mm | 4,340mm | +45mm |
| Overall width | 1,790mm | 1,790mm | ±0mm |
| Overall height | 1,545mm | 1,590mm | -45mm |
| Minimum ground clearance (FF) | 180mm | 195mm | -15mm |
| Minimum ground clearance (4WD) | 165mm | 180mm | -15mm |
The overall length has been extended by 45mm and the overall height has been reduced by 45mm, resulting in sportier and more dynamic proportions.
Interior design of the new Vezel e:HEV RS | A sporty space with striking red accents
Black and red color coordination
The interior of the new Vezel e:HEV RS is a special space with a black base and red accents throughout.
RS-specific interior equipment
- Combination seat (Prime Smooth x Lux Suede® x Fabric) : High-quality, non-slip seat that improves driver’s posture.
- Red stitching : Used in various places, including the leather-wrapped steering wheel, selector lever, shift boot, armrest, and door armrest.
- Instrument panel garnish and door lining garnish (red) : Both the front and rear seats are unified in red color
- Black roof lining : The interior ceiling is also black, creating a sharp impression.
- “AMP UP Mark” tag : A red tag expressing the grand concept “AMP UP YOUR LIFE”
Fully equipped for comfort
- Driver and passenger seat heaters
- Heated steering wheel
- Fully automatic air conditioner with independent temperature control for left and right
- Panoramic roof (with Low-E glass) : Manufacturer option
- Electrostatic touch type LED room lamp : Can be turned on with a touch
- Breeze outlet : Creates a gentle and comfortable breeze
Infotainment System
- Honda CONNECT Display : Manufacturer option
- Premium audio (10 speakers) : Kevlar cone speakers and high-performance Pioneer amplifiers
- Wireless charger
- USB charger (Type-C/fast charging compatible type)
- Apple CarPlay / Android Auto compatible
Loadspace
The luggage space is the same as the standard grade, and the rear seats can be used in both “tip-up” and “dive-down” positions, allowing for a wide range of uses.
Driving performance of the new Vezel e:HEV RS | Light and nimble driving achieved through special tuning
RS-specific low-down suspension
The biggest feature of the new Vezel e:HEV RS is its special lowering suspension, which uses springs that are 15mm shorter.
- Improved vehicle stability : A lower center of gravity significantly improves stability when cornering.
- Improved rear tire grip : Increased rear wheel traction for improved acceleration
- Changes to damper characteristics : The dampers have been specially tuned to match the shortened springs.
- Light and nimble riding : A low stance creates a sense of unity with the vehicle
Special settings for electric power steering (EPS)
To accommodate the 45mm lowering of the vehicle height, the electric power steering (EPS) has also been specially set up.
- Linear steering feel : Direct steering that responds accurately to the driver’s intentions
- Excellent steering response : Realizes nimble driving in urban areas
- Stability on highways : Ensures straight-line stability when driving at high speeds
Honda “e:HEV” 2-motor hybrid system
The powertrain is equipped with Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, “e:HEV.”
Powertrain specs
- Engine : Inline 4-cylinder 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC
- Maximum output: 106PS (78kW) / 6,000-6,400rpm
- Maximum torque: 127Nm (13.0kgf・m) / 4,500-5,000rpm
- motor
- Maximum output: 131PS (96kW) / 4,000-8,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 253Nm (25.8kgf・m) / 0-3,500rpm
Three driving modes
- EV drive mode : Runs on motor only, very quiet
- Hybrid drive mode : Generates electricity using the engine and drives using the motor
- Engine drive mode : Direct engine drive during high-speed cruising for increased efficiency
Key points of evolution for e:HEV
- Latest lithium-ion battery : Increases maximum output and reduces overall IPU weight and volume
- PCU (power control unit) placement in engine compartment : The PCU, which was previously located under the luggage space floor, has been relocated to the engine compartment, making it more compact and more efficient.
4WD system “Real Time AWD”
The 4WD model is equipped with Honda’s “Real Time AWD” system.
- Stability in bad weather : Provides stable driving even in rain or snow
- Traction control : Optimizes torque distribution between the front and rear wheels according to road conditions
- Hill Descent Control : Maintains a steady speed even on steep downhill slopes
Deceleration selector
By operating the paddle shifters, the strength of the engine brake can be adjusted to four levels, making driving on winding roads even more enjoyable.
Fuel economy of the new Vezel e:HEV RS
WLTC mode fuel consumption (catalog values) are as follows.
- FF (2WD) : Approximately 24.0km/L (estimated value)
- 4WD : Approximately 22.0km/L (estimated value)
*Official fuel economy figures will be updated as soon as they are announced.
Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, “e:HEV,” delivers excellent fuel economy despite being a sports grade vehicle.
Safety features of the new Vezel e:HEV RS | Equipped with the latest Honda SENSING
Honda SENSING (Honda Sensing) standard equipment
The new Vezel e:HEV RS comes standard with the latest Honda SENSING technology.
Major safe driving support functions
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) : Avoids or reduces collisions with vehicles or pedestrians ahead
- False start prevention function : Prevents sudden forward acceleration
- False backward start prevention function : Prevents sudden backward start
- Near-field collision mitigation braking : Avoids near-field collisions using eight sonar sensors at the front and rear of the vehicle
- Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering : Helps avoid collisions with pedestrians
- Road departure prevention function : Warns and assists when the vehicle is about to depart from its lane
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Traffic Jam Following Function : Automatically follows traffic jams on the highway
- Traffic Jam Assist (traffic jam driving assistance function) : Reduces the burden of driving in traffic jams
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) : Assists with steering to keep the vehicle in the center of the lane
- Leading vehicle departure notification function : Notifies you when the vehicle ahead has started moving
- Traffic sign recognition function : Recognizes traffic signs and displays them on the display
- Auto High Beam : Detects oncoming and preceding vehicles and automatically switches between high and low beams
- Adaptive driving beam : Detects oncoming and preceding vehicles and automatically adjusts the high beam range
- Blind Spot Information : Warns you of vehicles in your rear blind spots
- Back-up exit support : Detects approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space
- Sudden acceleration suppression function : Prevents sudden acceleration
- Parking sensor system : Notifies the driver of the distance to obstacles with sound
Front wide-view camera
The vehicle is equipped with a front wide-view camera that can detect the area ahead from a wider angle than conventional cameras. In combination with eight sonar sensors located at the front and rear of the vehicle, it is possible to check safety over a wider area.
Multi-view camera system
The display shows a bird’s-eye view of the area around the vehicle, helping you park in tight spaces or garages.
Airbag system
- Front seat i-side airbag system
- Side curtain airbag system (front and rear seats)
A total of six airbags protect the occupants.
Honda CONNECT | What you can do by connecting
The new Vezel e:HEV RS is equipped with the connected technology “Honda CONNECT” (manufacturer option).
Main features
- Honda Remote Control : Control the air conditioning and tailgate with your smartphone
- Automatic map update service : Automatically updates to the latest maps via communication
- In-car Wi-Fi : The vehicle can be used as a Wi-Fi hotspot
- Honda Digital Key : Turn your smartphone into a car key
- Honda ALSOK Emergency Service : Quick response to theft and vandalism
- Emergency Support Center : An operator will respond at the touch of a button
Terms of use
You must join Honda Total Care and apply for Honda Total Care Premium.
Price and grade structure of the new Vezel e:HEV RS
e:HEV RS price
- FF (2WD) : 3,748,800 yen (tax included)
- 4WD : 3,968,800 yen (tax included)
*A separate recycling fee of 18,570 yen is required.
Manufacturer options
- Premium Crystal Red Metallic : +60,500 yen (tax included)
- Honda CONNECT Display + ETC2.0 onboard unit set : Please contact your dealer for prices
- Panoramic roof (Low-E glass) : Please contact your dealer for prices.
Body color
There are five colors in total.
- Premium Crystal Red Metallic (additional color)
- Platinum White Pearl (additional color)
- Slate Gray Pearl
- Crystal Black Pearl
- Seabed Blue Pearl
Eco-car tax reduction
- FF(2WD) : Weight tax exemption
- 4WD : 25% reduction in weight tax
Vezel full grade price list (as of October 2025)
Gasoline model
- G (4WD) : 2,758,800 yen (tax included)
Hybrid model (e:HEV)
- e:HEV X (FF) : 2,998,600 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV X (4WD) : 3,218,600 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV X HuNT Package (FF) : 3,108,600 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV X HuNT Package (4WD) : 3,328,600 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV Z (FF) : 3,268,100 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV Z (4WD) : 3,488,100 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV Z PLaY Package (FF) : 3,699,300 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV Z PLaY Package (4WD) : 3,919,300 yen (tax included)
- e:HEV RS (FF) : 3,748,800 yen (tax included) [NEW]
- e:HEV RS (4WD) : 3,968,800 yen (tax included) [NEW]
The new e:HEV RS is positioned as the top grade in the Vezel series.
Vezel HuNT Package & PLaY Package
e:HEV X HuNT Package
A package that suits not only urban areas but also the outdoors.
- Dedicated roof rails
- Dedicated aluminum wheels
- Front lower garnish
- Exclusive color interior
- FABTECT (water and oil repellent) sheet
e:HEV Z PLaY Package
A package that allows you to enjoy the design.
- Two-tone body color
- Front grille with color bar ornament
- Light blue decorative door lower garnish
- Exclusive interior color
- Light blue painted instrument panel garnish and door lining garnish
Base model improvements implemented on October 2, 2025
Prior to the announcement of the new Vezel e:HEV RS, the base model will also be improved on October 2, 2025.
Main changes
- Adding manufacturer options
- Honda CONNECT display, wireless charger, and ETC 2.0 onboard unit are available as manufacturer options on the G, e:HEV X, and e:HEV X HuNT Package grades.
- Price revision
- Due to rising raw material prices and logistics costs, we have revised our prices by approximately 70,000 to 140,000 yen.
Evolution of the Honda Vezel
First generation Vezel (2013-2021)
The first-generation Vezel, released in December 2013, was a huge hit in the compact SUV market, highly praised for its coupe-like styling and spacious interior inherited from the Fit.
2nd generation Vezel (2021~)
A full model change was made in April 2021. It adopts a new generation design and is newly equipped with the two-motor hybrid system “e:HEV.”
Major minor change in April 2024
- New exterior design
- Improvements to the hybrid “e:HEV”
- Newly adopted two-tiered tray in the center of the instrument panel
- All vehicles are equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and paddle shifters.
- Safety systems include Traffic Jam Assist, Sudden Acceleration Suppression, and Adaptive Driving Beam.
- New support for remote tailgate operation
October 2025 “e:HEV RS” added
The sports grade “RS” is back in the Japanese market. The first 4WD model of the Vezel RS is also available, further expanding the lineup.
What is Honda’s RS series?
“RS” stands for “Road Sailing” and is a designation that represents Honda’s sports grade.
Current RS lineup
- N-ONE RS : Lightweight sports model
- Fit RS : Compact sports car model
- Civic RS : New sports model released in September 2024
- Vezel e:HEV RS : New sports SUV to be released in October 2025 [NEW]
Honda is strengthening the brand’s sporty image by expanding its “RS” grade.
Competitor models for the new Vezel e:HEV RS
Toyota Yaris Cross
- Price range : 1.99 million to 2.93 million yen
- Features : Compact body size and excellent fuel efficiency
Mazda CX-30
- Price range : 2.53 million to 4.18 million yen
- Features : High-quality interior and Mazda’s driving philosophy “Jinba Ittai” (oneness between man and horse)
Nissan Kicks e-POWER
- Price range : 2.99 million to 3.16 million yen
- Features : Powerful acceleration thanks to Nissan’s unique e-POWER system
Subaru Crosstrek
- Price range : 3.06 million yen to 3.66 million yen
- Features : Subaru’s 4WD technology and safety performance with EyeSight
The new Vezel e:HEV RS differentiates itself from its competitors with its sporty driving performance, high-quality interior, and comprehensive safety features.
The new Vezel e:HEV RS is recommended for these people
Recommended points
- People who want a sports SUV that is easy to use in urban areas
- Overall height of 1,545mm, suitable for mechanical multi-story parking garages
- Compact body size for easy handling
- People who want the joy of driving
- RS-specific low-down suspension
- Specially tuned electric power steering
- Light and dynamic driving performance
- People who care about design
- Low and wide sporty form
- Special black and red interior
- 18-inch dedicated aluminum wheels
- People who also value environmental performance
- Excellent fuel economy thanks to the two-motor hybrid “e:HEV”
- Eligible for eco-car tax reduction
- People who value safety performance
- Latest Honda SENSING standard equipment
- 17 types of safe driving support functions
- People who live in snowy areas
- Vezel RS’s first 4WD setup
- Real-time AWD for superior off-road performance
Summary | The new Vezel e:HEV RS is a new standard for Honda’s sports SUVs
The new Honda Vezel e:HEV RS, released on October 24, 2025, is a model with many appealing features as an urban sports SUV.
Summary of main features
- Overall height of 1,545mm (lowered by 45mm) for use in mechanical multi-story parking garages
- A light and nimble ride thanks to the RS-specific low-down suspension and special EPS tuning
- The Vezel RS is the first car with 4WD configuration, making it suitable for snowy regions.
- Special black and red interior
- Excellent environmental performance thanks to the two-motor hybrid “e:HEV”
- The latest Honda SENSING standard equipment provides comprehensive safety features
- Pricing: FF 3,748,800 yen, 4WD 3,968,800 yen
The new Vezel e:HEV RS, a new addition to Honda’s RS series, is a model truly worthy of the name “URBAN SPORT VEZEL,” as it offers enjoyable everyday driving without compromising on environmental or safety performance.
If you’re looking for both ease of use in urban areas and sporty driving, be sure to check out the actual vehicle at your local Honda dealer.
GPT 5
The new Honda Vezel e:HEV RS seems to strike a great balance between style and practicality. I love the hybrid technology it offers—fuel-efficient and eco-friendly, without compromising on performance. It’s a solid option for anyone looking to make the switch to an electric vehicle without losing the driving experience.