Honda GEAR Concept Promises New Era of Simple, Customizable Sub-Compacts
Falling in the shadow of Detroit, the Montreal Auto Show isn’t one for world premieres, except this year where Honda has unveiled its new GEAR Concept, showcasing what may be the next generation of sub-compacts from the Japanese automaker.
With only two doors and looking like a modernized version of the 4th generation Civic hatch, the GEAR Concept looks to be a bit smaller than the Honda Fit, the brand’s current sub-compact offering. What isn’t clear is if this is if the GEAR is pointing towards a new car below the Fit, or the styling of the next-generation Fit.
Honda is promising this simple and utilitarian design to be customizable and connected, and believes this philosophy would be ideal for targeting Generation-Y.
“Subcompact cars are usually either utilitarian, but uninspiring or they’re fun, zippy cars that are impractical and too expensive for the Gen-Y buyer,” said Dave Marek, Design Director at Honda. “GEAR Concept tears down those walls – it’s practical but fun, customizable, connected and affordable. Everything that young, discerning urban buyers would want in a car.”
SEE ALSO: Honda Fit Crossover Revealed in Detroit
The GEAR Concept is another small vehicle concept shown by the Japanese automaker, with the Fit-based Urban SUV Concept being revealed just a few days ago at the Detroit Auto Show.
GALLERY: Honda GEAR Concept
GALLERY: HONDA GEAR CONCEPT LIVE
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[Photo Credit: MontrealRacing]
Sami has an unquenchable thirst for car knowledge and has been at AutoGuide for the past six years. He has a degree in journalism and media studies from the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto and has won multiple journalism awards from the Automotive Journalist Association of Canada. Sami is also on the jury for the World Car Awards.
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The looks arent bad...front end could use work. I have always been a hatchback fan. I hope honda pulls out all the stops for this. Maybe a Si version with a new K motor or a turbo charged R series. I can dream.
While the Honda GEAR has of course very exaggerated styling cues, the general shape is very likely a preview of the next generation Honda Fit/Jazz hatchback, which will be probably be unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Show this coming fall.