The Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offered a compelling blend of electric driving range and gasoline-powered flexibility. For eco-conscious drivers looking for a used PHEV, understanding the nuances between model years is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the Clarity's relatively short production run to identify the best years and potential pitfalls to avoid.
Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid: Model Year Comparison
| Feature/Year | 2018-2019 | 2020-2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Reliability | Generally reliable, but some owners reported issues with infotainment system glitches and occasional battery-related warnings. | Improved reliability compared to earlier models. Honda addressed many of the initial software and hardware gremlins. |
| Battery Capacity | 17 kWh | 17 kWh |
| Electric Range (EPA) | 47 miles | 47 miles |
| Total Range (EPA) | 340 miles | 340 miles |
| Engine | 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine | 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine |
| Horsepower (Combined) | 181 hp | 181 hp |
| Infotainment System | 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Prone to lag and occasional freezing. | Same 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Software updates improved responsiveness but didn't completely eliminate issues. |
| Safety Features | Honda Sensing suite standard (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System). | Honda Sensing suite standard (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System). |
| Interior Updates | Minimal changes. Interior materials are adequate but not luxurious. | Minimal changes. Interior materials are adequate but not luxurious. |
| Charging Time (240V) | Approximately 2.5 hours | Approximately 2.5 hours |
| Common Problems | Infotainment system glitches, occasional battery warnings, and some reports of regenerative braking inconsistencies. | Infotainment system issues less frequent, some reports of DC-to-DC converter failures (though relatively rare). |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 110 MPGe (electric), 42 MPG (gasoline) | 110 MPGe (electric), 42 MPG (gasoline) |
| Resale Value | Lower resale value compared to some competitors due to discontinuation. | Lower resale value compared to some competitors due to discontinuation. |
| Production Numbers | Higher production numbers in earlier years, making them easier to find. | Lower production numbers, making them slightly harder to find. |
| Recall History | Check for recalls using the VIN on the NHTSA website. | Check for recalls using the VIN on the NHTSA website. |
| Availability of Parts | Parts availability is generally good through Honda dealerships and aftermarket suppliers. | Parts availability is generally good through Honda dealerships and aftermarket suppliers. |
| Overall Recommendation | A decent PHEV option, but be aware of potential infotainment issues and check for recalls. Consider a 2020-2021 model if possible for improved reliability. | The most desirable years for the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid due to improved reliability and software updates. Still, inspect thoroughly before purchasing. |
Detailed Explanations
Overall Reliability: This refers to how consistently the vehicle performs its intended functions without experiencing breakdowns or malfunctions. A more reliable car generally requires fewer repairs and less maintenance.
Battery Capacity: Measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), battery capacity indicates the amount of energy the battery can store. A larger battery capacity translates to a longer electric driving range. The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid maintains a consistent 17 kWh battery throughout its production run.
Electric Range (EPA): The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the distance a vehicle can travel solely on electric power. The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offers a consistent 47-mile electric range according to the EPA.
Total Range (EPA): This refers to the combined distance a vehicle can travel using both electric and gasoline power. The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid's total range is estimated at 340 miles.
Engine: The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine, which acts as a generator to extend the vehicle's range once the battery is depleted.
Horsepower (Combined): This represents the total power output of the vehicle, combining the electric motor and the gasoline engine. The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offers a combined horsepower of 181 hp.
Infotainment System: This refers to the vehicle's multimedia system, including the touchscreen display, navigation, and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Clarity's system was known for its lag and occasional freezing, particularly in earlier models.
Safety Features: The Honda Sensing suite includes a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) designed to enhance safety, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Interior Updates: This refers to any changes or improvements made to the vehicle's interior design, materials, and features. The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid received minimal interior updates throughout its production run.
Charging Time (240V): This indicates the time it takes to fully charge the vehicle's battery using a 240-volt Level 2 charging station, which is commonly found in homes and public charging locations.
Common Problems: These are recurring issues or malfunctions that have been reported by owners of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. These can range from minor glitches to more significant mechanical or electrical problems.
Fuel Economy (Combined): This represents the vehicle's fuel efficiency, measured in miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) for electric driving and miles per gallon (MPG) for gasoline driving.
Resale Value: This refers to the price a vehicle can be sold for after a certain period of ownership. The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid's resale value is generally lower than some competitors due to its discontinuation.
Production Numbers: This indicates the quantity of vehicles produced for each model year. Higher production numbers generally mean that the vehicles are easier to find on the used market.
Recall History: Recalls are issued by manufacturers to address safety-related defects in vehicles. It's crucial to check for any outstanding recalls before purchasing a used car. You can use the vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website.
Availability of Parts: This refers to the ease with which replacement parts can be obtained for the vehicle. Good parts availability ensures that repairs can be performed quickly and efficiently.
Overall Recommendation: This provides a general assessment of each model year, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses and offering guidance to potential buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the electric range of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid? The EPA-estimated electric range is 47 miles.
Is the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid reliable? Later models (2020-2021) are generally more reliable than earlier ones due to software updates and hardware improvements.
Does the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Yes, all model years of the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What are some common problems with the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid? Common issues include infotainment system glitches, occasional battery warnings, and rare reports of DC-to-DC converter failures.
How long does it take to charge the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid? It takes approximately 2.5 hours to charge using a 240V Level 2 charger.
Why was the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid discontinued? Honda discontinued the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid to focus on other electric vehicles and prioritize their broader electrification strategy.
Are parts readily available for the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid? Yes, parts are generally available through Honda dealerships and aftermarket suppliers.
Should I buy a used Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid? If you're looking for an affordable PHEV with decent electric range, a used Clarity Plug-In Hybrid can be a good option, especially a 2020-2021 model.
How can I check for recalls on a specific Clarity Plug-In Hybrid? Visit the NHTSA website and enter the vehicle's VIN to check for any outstanding recalls.
What is the combined horsepower of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid? The combined horsepower is 181 hp.
Conclusion
While all model years of the Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offer similar performance and features, the 2020 and 2021 models are generally considered the best due to improved reliability and fewer reported issues. Thoroughly inspect any used Clarity Plug-In Hybrid before purchasing, paying particular attention to the infotainment system and battery health, and always check for outstanding recalls.