The Honda Today, a kei car from Honda's lineup, reflects a unique chapter in automotive innovation. The second-generation Honda Today was launched in January 1993 as a redesigned version with a primary focus on passenger comfort and urban usability. Unlike its predecessor, which leaned toward light commercial utility, this iteration was engineered from the outset as a passenger car. The model was tailored to meet the needs of young, independent drivers, especially women, prioritizing comfort, practicality, and a stylish design. One of its hallmark features was the unconventional tailgate, which resembled a pouch-like design, echoing Honda's attention to user-centric styling. Later, a more traditional hatchback was introduced during a 1996 facelift to align with changing market preferences. Despite facing challenges in a market dominated by "tallboy" designs, the Honda Today secured a loyal following thanks to its robust engineering and versatile features.
Honda Today Specifications
The Honda Today's powertrain options reflected the kei car's compact yet capable nature. It was available with a 656 cc three-cylinder E07A engine in two variations: a standard fuel-injected version delivering 48 PS (47 HP) at 6300 rpm and a high-performance MTREC-equipped version offering 58 PS (57 HP) at 7300 rpm. MTREC (Multi Throttle Responsive Engine Control) technology, derived from the Honda Beat, enhanced engine responsiveness by employing individual throttle bodies for each cylinder. This made the MTREC-equipped variants stand out for their sporty performance, emphasizing low-end torque. Torque outputs were 57 Nm and 60 Nm for the standard and MTREC engines, respectively, ensuring agile urban driving.
The car featured a five-speed manual or three-speed automatic transmission. It also introduced Honda's Realtime 4WD system, available exclusively in the Qi trim, catering to drivers seeking enhanced stability. Front-wheel-drive variants utilized a coil-sprung rear beam axle, while 4WD models adopted an independent rear suspension setup for superior handling. Despite its compact engine, the Honda Today delivered an engaging driving experience that resonated with its target audience of city commuters and young drivers.
Honda Today Interior
Inside, the Honda Today's cabin was thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and utility within its compact dimensions. The asymmetrical interior layout was a standout feature, with Honda making strategic adjustments to suit driver needs. For instance, the driver's seat was slightly wider than the front passenger seat, measuring 500 mm and 460 mm, respectively. This subtle change highlighted Honda's focus on driver comfort, acknowledging that many of the car's users primarily drove solo.
The seating materials and layout prioritized simplicity and practicality, catering to its youthful audience. While the car's compact size limited cargo space, the clever use of the interior ensured it met everyday commuting requirements. The addition of options such as a driver's side airbag and rear seat three-point ELR belts enhanced safety, which became standard in later models. Power windows were also available on higher trims, though rear windows remained manually operated even in advanced variants. Overall, the cabin's design emphasized a blend of functionality and comfort, aligning perfectly with its target market.
Honda Today Exterior
The second-generation Honda Today featured a distinctive and aerodynamic exterior that set it apart in the kei car segment. Initially, it introduced a unique tailgate design that opened downwards, resembling a pouch, which inspired the "Pochette" trim name. This feature not only added a stylish touch but also contributed to the vehicle's structural rigidity. The wraparound rear window further enhanced visibility and aesthetics, providing a modern and sporty appeal.
In 1996, a facelift introduced significant updates, replacing the unconventional tailgate with a traditional hatchback. This change necessitated a redesign of the rear section, resulting in a more conventional yet appealing look reminiscent of the Honda Logo. The front grille and bumpers were also reworked to reflect contemporary design trends. The Honda Today's compact dimensions, combined with its lightweight construction, made it a perfect choice for navigating tight urban spaces while maintaining a stylish presence on the road.
Infotainment
The Honda Today offered modest yet practical infotainment and connectivity options, keeping in line with its role as an affordable kei car. While it did not feature advanced systems seen in modern vehicles, it provided essential amenities such as a radio, MP3, CD, and cassette player, ensuring entertainment during commutes. Despite its simplicity, the infotainment system was intuitive and aligned with the car's focus on practicality and ease of use.
Honda Today Safety Features
Safety was a key consideration in the design of the Honda Today, with Honda incorporating various features to ensure driver and passenger protection. Early trims offered a driver's side airbag as an option, later becoming standard across the lineup after the 1996 facelift. The inclusion of three-point ELR seat belts in the rear improved passenger safety, replacing the traditional lap belts found in earlier models. Additionally, higher trims offered an optional anti-lock braking system (ABS), which enhanced braking performance but slightly reduced trunk space due to additional components. These features underscored Honda's commitment to safety, making Today a reliable option in its segment.
Honda Today Mileage
In Pakistan, Honda Today offers a mileage in the range of 15-18 km/l with a fuel tank capacity of 28l. However, the mileage may vary depending on certain factors like driving habits, road conditions, and fuel type
Honda Today Price In Pakistan In 2025
According to the updates, Honda Today price in Pakistan in 2025 is 5.0 lacs, The Honda Today, being an imported kei car, is available in Pakistan through private import channels.
Prospective buyers should consider additional costs for maintenance and spare parts due to their imported status.
Maintenance Tips for the Honda Today
To ensure the longevity of the Honda Today, consider the following maintenance tips:
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Regular oil changes to maintain engine performance.
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Inspection and replacement of air and fuel filters to ensure efficiency.
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Routine checks of the suspension system, especially for 4WD models.
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Proper care of the MTREC engine's individual throttle bodies to sustain responsiveness.
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Genuine Honda spare parts can be used for repairs to maintain reliability.
Comparison with Competitors
In the kei car segment, Honda Today faced competition from models like the Suzuki Alto, Subaru Pleo 2002, and Hyundai Santro. These vehicles shared similar compact dimensions and targeted urban commuters. While competitors often focused on practicality and fuel efficiency, Honda Today distinguished itself with its innovative design and sporty performance, especially in the MTREC-equipped trims.
Is the Honda Today Worth Buying?
The Honda Today offers a blend of practicality, innovative design, and reliability that caters to urban commuters and enthusiasts alike. Its compact size and efficient engines make it ideal for navigating crowded city streets, while features like the MTREC engine in sporty trims appeal to those seeking a spirited drive. However, as a discontinued model, potential buyers must consider availability and maintenance challenges. For those looking for a unique, reliable kei car with a touch of Honda's engineering excellence, the Today remains a worthwhile choice.