2019 Honda N-WGN: A Carimports.co.ke Review
The Big Picture
The 2019 Honda N-WGN (JH3/JH4) is the sleeper hit of the Kei car world. While the N-BOX gets all the glory for its sliding doors, the N-WGN offers the same premium Honda engineering in a lighter, more fuel-efficient hinged-door package. This 2nd Generation (launched August 2019) is a massive upgrade over the old JH1, featuring a retro-modern design and something unheard of in this class: Honda Sensing safety tech as standard equipment on every single grade.
Quick Specs
Engine Options & Model Codes
The N-WGN uses the sophisticated S07B engine (shared with the N-BOX):
- Standard (L / G): 58 HP. RECOMMENDED This naturally aspirated engine features i-VTEC. It is peppy enough for Nairobi traffic and simpler to maintain than the turbo.
- Custom Turbo: 64 HP. Includes paddle shifters and an electronic wastegate. It makes highway merging easier but requires stricter oil maintenance.
Interior & Practicality
- Two-Tier Boot: The boot floor comes with a sturdy board that splits the cargo area into upper and lower sections. You can hide shoes/laptops underneath and put groceries on top. It is a brilliant use of vertical space.
- Cabin Quality: The "Standard" model features a warm, ivory/brown interior that feels like a cozy living room. The "Custom" model is all black and chrome.
Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs
- Consumption: 20–23 km/l. Honda's CVT programming is excellent, keeping RPMs low.
- Service: The S07B engine is high-tech. Use 0W-20 fully synthetic oil. Do not use thick 20W-50 oil, or the VTEC solenoids will fail.
- Parts: Suspension parts are similar to the N-BOX, but body panels (headlights, tailgates) are unique to the N-WGN.
Suitability for Kenyan Roads
City Specialist: At 145mm, clearance is standard. The suspension is tuned for comfort, feeling less "tinny" over bumps than a Suzuki Alto. However, the small 14-inch wheels can get swallowed by large potholes. It is best suited for tarmac.
Safety & Reliability
Honda Sensing Standard: This is a big deal. Even the base model gets Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist (LKAS), and Collision Mitigation Braking. It is arguably the safest Kei car in its price bracket.
💰 2019 Honda N-WGN Price in Kenya
The following are average showroom prices for fresh imports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
| Trim Level | Import Cost | Showroom Price | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| L Honda Sensing | Ksh 1.1M | Ksh 1.3M | Ksh 200,000 |
| Custom L Turbo | Ksh 1.3M | Ksh 1.55M | Ksh 250,000 |
The Ci Verdict
Who is this for? The safety-conscious buyer who wants a premium small car with adaptive cruise control for Thika Road. Who is it NOT for? Those who need to carry 5 people—Kei cars are strictly 4-seaters by law.
