Production 1996 - 2002 Layout FF/AWD | Related | |
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Engine 2.0 L (1972cc) B20B DOHC I4 | ||
The Honda S-MX (Japanese: ホンダ・S-MX) is a Compact MPV produced by the Honda Motor Company, sold between 1996 and 2002.
Contents
Design
The S-MX was based on the S-MX Concept model first exhibited at the 31st Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, and was similar in appearance to the larger Honda Stepwgn, shortened substantially in length and height. Whereas the Stepwgn had three rows of seating to accommodate eight passengers the smaller S-MX has two rows of seating for four or five passengers. In order to maximize space for passengers the S-MX uses a front bench seat and a column shifter for the four-speed automatic transmission (the only available transmission).
The S-MX was powered by a 2.0 L version of Honda's B-series engine featuring double overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder; it did not use Honda's VTEC system. Peak power output was 128 hp (130 PS; 96 kW) @ 5,500 rpm and peak torque was 135 lb·ft (18.7 kgf·m; 183 N·m) @ 4,200 rpm. This engine was shared with the Honda CR-V and Honda Stepwagon compact crossover. Similar to the CR-V and Stepwagon, the S-MX was available with front-wheel-drive or optional four-wheel-drive.
As was customary of minivans of the time the S-MX features only one (conventional) rear door on the passenger (left) side of the vehicle. Ostensibly this feature was for the safety of passengers, to prevent them from stepping out into traffic.
All chassis codes start with RH1 for the Base model and Lowdown (Lowdown is also printed on the chassis plate). All 4WD models have the chassis code starting RH2
1st Generation
The S-MX went on sale in November 22, 1996 as the fourth product of 'Creative Mover' series, which were Honda's automobiles with the aim of 'Lifestyle Enhancing Vehicles' that expand the users' lifestyles with more fun and richness.
The vehicle was available in three different trims:
Colors available: White, Black, Orange, Silver, Blue
Optional Extras
2nd Generation Facelift
The S-MX was slightly restyled in 2000. The revised model went on sale in December of that year. Coinciding with the release of the new exterior a new trim, Custom Basic, was introduced. This new trim was lower-priced and eliminated several of the once-standard features such as a CD player, electric mirrors and tinted rear windows for privacy. Improvements where made to the styling with re-modeled headlights and front bumper.
Colors available: White, Black, Silver, Blue, Purple, Red, Green, Grey
The following changes were made
Optional Extras
Special Editions
Two special editions were introduced:
Aero Style - This included: More aggressive front lip, rear lip, spoiler and side skirts. Larger alloy wheels, Silver Dashboard trim and leather interior.
Casual Style - This included: Wooden effect dashboard, black seats, different alloy wheels
End Of Life
Production of the S-MX ended in 2002, and the vehicle was replaced by the Honda Mobilio Spike in 2002. Many were exported to other countries, with the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada being the most popular.
There is currently a large UK following and Honda S-MX Owners Club
Aftermarket Modifications
As with many Japanese cars there was large amount of aftermarket parts and modifications. These included, bodykits, interiors, wheels, suspension and engine.