Honda Life: What’s Behind This Life-Named Series?

Original | Honda Magazine | Japanese Car Enthusiast Magazine | Updated: Today

In 2020, Honda’s two domestic branches have been actively competing for attention. After Guangqi Honda launched the fourth-generation Fit, Dongfeng Honda introduced the Hatchback Civic (FK7) and a new version of the Fit under the name “Life,” with the chassis codes GS2 and GS3. But what exactly is the origin of this Life-named model? This article will take you through its history.

First, the Life series has always been Honda’s Kei-Car lineup, spanning five generations. The predecessor to the Life is the legendary Honda N360, Honda’s first passenger car model, which debuted in March 1967. It featured a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout influenced by the Mini launched in 1959. The N360E engine was adapted from the CB450’s air-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke engine, featuring a SOHC valvetrain driven by a timing chain. With a bore of 62.5mm and a stroke of 57.8mm, the engine had a displacement of 354cc and produced a maximum output of 31 horsepower at 8,500 rpm, paired with either a 4MT or 3AT transmission. The suspension consisted of a front strut and rear rigid axle. In June 1968, Honda introduced the larger displacement N600E, which achieved export success.

The First Generation

On June 1, 1971, the Life was launched as the successor to the N360. This model had a total length of just 2995mm, identical to the N360, with a slightly longer wheelbase of 2080mm. The Life offered three body styles: a three-door hatchback wagon, a two-box four-door sedan (Honda's first four-door passenger car), and later variations such as vans and pickups.

The Life featured the more reliable EA engine, a two-cylinder water-cooled engine that marked a shift from air cooling. This engine was Japan's first car engine to use a timing belt to drive the camshaft. The top Touring variant produced 36 horsepower at 9000 rpm, while other versions delivered 30 horsepower at 8000 rpm. The Life was available in several configurations, such as the Life Light Van (September 1971), the high-performance Life Touring (May 1972), and the Life Step Van (September 1972).

The Second Generation

The second-generation Life, released on April 18, 1997, had a very short lifespan, ending production in October 1998. This model was created hastily to comply with revised Kei-Car regulations allowing 660cc engines. Honda reused the chassis of the Today model, adopting a retro-inspired design based on the original Life Step Van. It featured the E07A three-cylinder engine, with a maximum output of 48 horsepower at 6300 rpm. Despite being a stopgap measure, this generation achieved remarkable sales of 358,800 units in just over a year.

The Third Generation

Unveiled in October 1998, the third-generation Life was essentially an evolution of its predecessor. It adhered to Kei-Car regulations with a length of 3395mm but was slightly larger and heavier. Honda equipped it with the E07Z engine, offering better low-end torque and a turbocharged variant, the Life Dunk, which hit the Kei-Car power limit of 64 horsepower. This generation introduced a more practical interior layout with a column-mounted shifter.

The Fourth Generation

Released on September 4, 2003, the fourth-generation Life targeted female drivers with a more rounded and stylish design. The height increased to 1575mm, and it retained the same 658cc P07A SOHC engine. Turbocharged variants were available but without the Dunk branding.

The Fifth Generation

On November 6, 2008, Honda launched the fifth-generation Life, incorporating a “Daily Smile Technology” design philosophy. This model prioritized ease of use, visibility, and interior space. It utilized a lightweight frame, reducing weight by approximately 40kg compared to the previous generation. The fifth generation represented the pinnacle of Honda’s Kei-Car design before being discontinued in April 2014.

The Legacy of Honda Life

Though the Life name has always been associated with Kei-Cars and limited to the Japanese Domestic Market, its legacy has been significant. Since its discontinuation, Honda has focused on its N-Series models, but the revival of the Life name in the new Dongfeng Honda Fit raises questions. Why not continue with the "Jazz" branding? Could there be deeper trademark considerations?

Whatever the reason, the Life name lives on in Dongfeng Honda’s modern lineup, blending tradition with innovation. 🚗✨