Honda Japan Introduces All-new Airwave Compact Station Wagon

Tokyo, Japan, Apr 7, 2005; JCN Newswire newswire reported that Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the debut of the Airwave, an all-new 1.5-liter compact station wagon that boasts top-of-class*1 luggage capacity, the practical utility of versatile seating arrangements in a compact body, along with an extra-large glass "Sky Roof"*2 that conveys an exhilarating open-air feeling. The new Airwave will go on sale April 8th at Honda automobile dealers throughout Japan.

The Airwave was designed around the "new wave compact" concept-a new idea for compact cars that function as a cool lifestyle component for youthful customers who value their own individual sensibilities over any single style.

In order to achieve both a roomy passenger interior and a luggage compartment that boasts top-of-class storage capacity, Airwave incorporates Honda's original center-fuel tank layout. In combination with the convenience of a low-floor design, this also allows a variety of seating arrangements. The Sky Roof, with its extra-large opening, delivers an open-air feeling, while the ample glass area that extends seamlessly from the front windshield up onto the roof adds to the exterior stylishness.

The Airwave is equipped with a 1.5-liter VTEC engine that provides ample power for a fun, exciting drive. In combination with the Honda Multimatic S transmission, it delivers smooth acceleration with high torque and high output performance at mid to high speeds, combined with top-of-class*1 fuel economy of 18.0km/l*3. All Airwave trim levels exceed Japanese government fuel economy standards for 2010 by 5% and have earned Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport certification as 5 Star Low-Emissions Vehicles, with emission levels 75% lower than those required by 2005 standards, making them eligible for preferential Green Tax measures.

*The name Airwave suggests flowing air or wind and was chosen to describe this refreshing, invigorating vehicle with refined styling, and a bright, spacious interior with an open-air experience that promotes a feeling of oneness with nature. *1 1.5-liter station wagon class *2 Window glass is fixed in position; available on G Sky Roof and L Sky Roof types. *3 FF vehicle. Fuel consumption in 10-15 mode (Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport calculations)

For more information please go to http://world.honda.com/news/2005/4050407.html

About Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Honda is one of the leading manufacturers of automobiles and power products and the largest manufacture of motorcycles in the world. Honda has always sought to provide genuine satisfaction to people worldwide. The result is more than 120 manufacturing facilities in 30 countries worldwide, producing a wide range of products, including motorcycles, ATVs, generators, marine engines, lawn and garden equipment and automobiles that bring the company into contact with over 17 million customers annually.