Unveiled today in Tokyo, Japan, the Freed is Honda’s newest proposition in the compact minivan class. The Freed, whose name was coined from the word “freedom, is based on the new 2009 Jazz / Fit. While the Freed retains the same width as the Jazz / Fit at 1,695 mm, it’s longer (4,215 mm vs 3,900 mm), higher (1,715 mm vs 1,525 mm) and it also features an extended wheelbase measuring 2,740 mm in length (vs 2,500 mm). Honda will offer three different variants the Freed in Japan: a seven-passenger edition featuring captain’s seats in the second row; an eight-passenger version and a five-passenger type which offers a large cargo space. It goes without saying that all versions feature amenities like split/folding seats. All three variants of the Freed are also equipped with sliding rear doors on either side of the vehicle. Also available with each variation are power sliding doors that open and close easily for added convenience. -Continued
In Japan, the Freed will be offered in front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive variants, both of which are equipped with a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder that delivers an output of 120Hp. For the time being, it remains unclear whether or not the Freed will find its way out of the Japanese market.