One is known for making cars and motorbikes while the other one is steeped in our minds as a name known for a diverse range of services as well as products. These two Japanese behemoths coming together has indeed raised eyebrows but its first new production car has finally borne fruit. The Afeela 1 is the first new electric offering from Sony Honda Mobility but it is also a more exclusive car while being distinctly different from others. The focus seems to be on technology, software, and integrating various facets of futuristic designs within a restrained-looking sedan bodyshell.
The Afeela 1 seems less like a car and more like a software store on wheels- something that we had expected. Prices start at $89,900 and the first cars would be seen in California by mid-2026. yes, just California as the Afeela 1 is not going to be sold anywhere else for now. That is intriguing but the rest of the car also is much like it. As expected, the spaceship-like design of the exterior is subdued but the traditional shape has a Lidar driver assistance system being stuck upfront while even the outer grille displays some information like the charging status!
The interior meanwhile is a riot of screens and a yoke steering wheel which seems to be ripped off a fighter jet. Alongside personal AI assistance, in-car control functions, subscriptions, and 5G services, there is also more customization regarding features that surround you. If we look at the specifics, the 91.0-kWh lithium-ion battery is good enough for 300 miles while it has 240hp motors driving the axles. There is air suspension which means it will be a comfortable luxury car while vibrations or NVH has also been in focus.
There is also a more expensive flagship Signature trim which costs $102,900 and that is pricey since it rubs shoulders with the likes of top-tier German luxury sedans. However, Sony and Honda intend to do things differently and that is the agenda. Assembled in Ohio, the Afeela 1 is a boutique luxury offering with a different take on what a car should be. In the future, we can see more products being offered including an SUV version while more markets could be on the horizon too. It seems it is less of a car and more of a showcase of technology.