🚗 Honda Shuttle: From Civic Roots to Independent Success

The Honda Shuttle: Evolution from Civic Derivative to Independent Model
Original by FISHER DISCOUNT Updated: November 23, 2024




💡 Did You Know?

🛠 First launched in 1983 as a Civic variant.
🚀 Redesigned in 2015 with its own unique style!
🔧 Offers up to 570 liters of cargo space.
🌱 Hybrid and gasoline options make it versatile for both urban and rural needs.

🌟 Hello, my friend...
Discover exclusive finds at OLD FISHER DISCOUNT! 🎉

🔗 Read More 👉 www.fisherdiscount.com
💬 Would you choose a Shuttle for your next family car?





In October 1983, based on the third-generation Civic, the Honda Civic Shuttle was introduced to replace the second-generation Civic Country five-door variant, also known as the Civic wagon. The name “Shuttle” draws from the English word for "space shuttle" or "commuter bus," symbolizing its unique design. Unlike traditional wagons, it featured a raised roof (100mm higher than the sedan version), a 2450mm wheelbase, and significantly increased cargo space. These features made it ideal for transporting passengers and goods in both urban and rural settings.

The first-generation Civic Shuttle offered three mechanical configurations, each with a unique chassis code:

53U (AJ): Equipped with a 1.3L EV engine producing 80 horsepower and utilizing a carburetor.
55M/55J/55G (AK): Featuring a 1.5L EW engine with a maximum output of 90 horsepower.
55i (AK): The top-spec front-wheel-drive model, boasting fuel injection for the EW engine.
In 1984, Honda introduced a 4WD variant, denoted as 4WD J/M (AR), equipped with the carbureted EW engine. The 4WD models were slightly larger and heavier than their FWD counterparts, weighing approximately 820kg—70 to 130kg more than the equivalent FWD versions.

The First-Generation Civic Shuttle (1983–1987)
The Civic Shuttle quickly became a market favorite due to its spacious interior and ample cargo capacity. As the Civic transitioned to its fourth generation in 1987, the second-generation Shuttle debuted just one month after the new Civic hatchback. This new model adopted the advanced EF chassis, including double-wishbone suspension at both the front and rear.

Honda even equipped top-tier models like the 56i (EF3) and RTi 4WD (EF5) with the high-performance ZC SOHC engine, delivering 120 horsepower and 14.5kg-m of torque. This transformation made the Shuttle an unexpected powerhouse in the "semi-commercial" category. During Japan's motorsport boom of the late 1980s, these versatile vehicles found use as race team support cars, delivery vehicles, and client service shuttles.

From Civic Shuttle to Honda Partner (1987–1996)
The second-generation Civic Shuttle remained in production until 1996, long after the Civic sedan had transitioned to its EG and EK generations. Its successor, the Honda Partner, utilized the same Civic platform but was given a new chassis code: EY. Although the Shuttle name was retired in Japan, it was briefly resurrected in Europe with the introduction of the first-generation Odyssey in 1995.

In 2005, Honda introduced the Airwave (GJ1), a compact wagon based on the first-generation Fit platform. Despite innovative features like a panoramic sunroof and the reliable L15A engine (110 horsepower), the Airwave failed to gain traction due to Japan's declining economy and overlapping market segments with the Honda Stream. Production ceased in 2010, paving the way for the return of the Shuttle in 2011, now based on the second-generation Fit platform.

The First "Fit Shuttle" (2011–2015)
The Fit Shuttle debuted in June 2011, following a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation Fit (GE). While its 2530mm wheelbase matched that of the third-generation Fit (GK), it shared most of its interior and exterior components with the GE Fit. The Shuttle's primary innovation was its expanded cargo space, which grew to 496 liters—substantially larger than the 422 liters offered by the Fit.

Mechanically, the Fit Shuttle mirrored the Fit, including the hybrid GP2 model featuring Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system. While the hybrid system provided improved fuel efficiency, the main power source remained the gasoline engine. A mid-cycle update in 2013 introduced features like HID headlights, hill-start assist, and redesigned bumpers. However, by 2015, with the release of the third-generation Fit, the Fit Shuttle was discontinued.

The Second-Generation Honda Shuttle (2015–Present)
In May 2015, Honda launched the fully redesigned Shuttle. Departing from the Fit’s shadow, this model featured unique exterior styling and a revamped interior. Available powertrains included:

A 1.5L L15B gasoline engine delivering 132 horsepower (chassis codes: GK8/GK9 for FWD/4WD).
The i-DCD hybrid system, combining a 1.5L LEB-H1 engine with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (chassis codes: GP7 for FWD and GP8 for 4WD). The hybrid system’s electric motor provided up to 29.5 horsepower, supporting the engine during low-speed driving.
The new Shuttle’s design offered significant cargo improvements, with a standard capacity of 570 liters, expandable to 1141 liters when the rear seats were folded flat. For users requiring versatility without the tax burden of larger vehicles, the Shuttle provided an ideal solution.

Features and Updates (2016–2019)
2016: All interior lighting was upgraded to LED.
2017: Honda Sensing safety features were added, alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
2019: A mid-cycle refresh introduced a redesigned front bumper, updated tail lights, and automatic high beams.
The Future of the Shuttle
For Japanese consumers, the Shuttle remains a practical and refined option for families and businesses. With prices starting at approximately ¥1.8 million (around 11,000 USD) for the gasoline model and ¥2.4 million (approximately 15,000 USD) for the hybrid, it strikes a balance between functionality and affordability.

For older drivers or those with significant cargo needs, the Shuttle is an appealing choice. While its adoption outside Japan remains uncertain, the Shuttle continues to evolve, offering a compelling blend of utility and innovation.

The End.