The Honda Super-N and Abarth 500e are two baby electric hot hatches that have been put to the test. One of the key features of these cars is their sound generation, which is designed to mimic the sound of a petrol car. According to the report, sound is not just about evoking a sense of petrolheadedness, but also about giving the driver an indication of speed and powertrain effort.
A photographer who tested the cars noted that the Honda Super-N has a gearshift mode with seven simulated ratios, which affect acceleration and regeneration. The car also has a simulated “rev counter” that moves in pitch with the sound. In contrast, the Abarth 500e has a single “gear” and a sound that was crowd-sourced from Abarth fans, who voted on several options.
Design and Features
The Honda Super-N is based on a Japanese kei city car, with a narrow and box-like design that is surprisingly roomy inside. The car has a “Magic Seats” system that provides ample space for tall items. The Abarth 500e, on the other hand, is a derivative of the Fiat 500, with a more stylish and coupé-like design.
Despite its small size, the Honda Super-N is surprisingly fun to drive, with a responsive steering system and a “Boost” mode. The Abarth 500e, however, has more power.
The Abarth 500e’s sound system is also notable, with a switchable noise that can be turned on or off. While some may find the noise to be too loud or juvenile, it can be useful for judging cornering speed and is a unique feature of the car. The Honda Super-N, on the other hand, has a more subdued sound system, with a simulated “engine” noise.
One driver noted that the Abarth 500e is a more civilized car, with a more comfortable ride and better handling. However, the Honda Super-N is still a fun and charming car, with a unique design.
The Honda Super-N’s limitations become apparent on longer trips. The Abarth 500e, on the other hand, is better suited for longer journeys.
The Abarth 500e’s interior is more upscale, with Alcantara trim on the dashboard and a logical screen system. The instrument pack is also well-designed, and there are plenty of physical switches for climate and lighting controls.
In contrast, the Honda Super-N’s interior is more functional, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. However, the boot space is limited, and the doors are thin, making the car feel somewhat vulnerable.
Driving Experience
The steering is progressive, and the car feels well-planted on the road. The ‘engine’ note is also helpful in judging cornering speed, and the car responds well to driver input.