2019 Honda Clarity PHEV Touring by Mark Fulmer

Smart, Efficient, and Fun

The bane of hybrid autos has been the weight of the price tag. No more. The Clarity PHEV starts at $33,400 and is well equipped at the price. The federal tax credit lowers its a net cost of $25,900. Hello hybrid affordability. We tested the Touring version which is about $38,000 — it is also thousands less than similar cars.

Smart. Sensors, and cameras and Info, oh my. Lane keeping and road surface departure warning system, three views from the backup camera, emergency forward braking, a camera mounted in the right side mirror with grid overlay information. and my absolute favorite: adaptive cruise control. Set the max speed you want and the distance from whatever vehicle is in front of you. Instant right foot relief. The radar controlled braking and acceleration takes away 90% of the hassle of throttled freeways and stop-and-go mind-bending blues. The navigation system has a simplified display with text fonts easily read at a glance, and freeway off-ramps that include actual photographic displays which is super helpful in mega-twisted freeway mazes.

Efficient. Heavier than the Accord, the 4,000 lb Clarity PHEV gets great fuel economy for such a large, heavy car. The EPA gives it 110 MPGe rating. We stayed over 190 for 7 days. We were impressed with a 240 mile range that used just a couple of gallons. However, it all depends on how you drive, the characteristics of the roads, and the fuel used. The Clarity PHEV has a 6.6 kW charger and can charge the 17 kWh battery in 12 hours on 110 volt AC or 2.5 hours using a 220 volt Level 2 charger.

Fun. Front seat head, leg, and hip room is remarkably spacious. The entry/exit access through the oversize rear doors is excellent. Seating for five is not only reasonable of all sized folks but actually comfortable. Access to the rear seat is through big doors that look they belong on a limousine. Once again, head, leg, and hip room are ample. This is a true 5 passenger sedan that accommodates all sizes and shapes of people. Leather trimmed seats in the Touring edition car and the interior materials used give a solid and classy look. For music lovers who don't require ear-damaging volume levels, the lack of road noise is sweet. With clean, precise handling, and a SPORT mode for entering freeways and passing on hills.

The Clarity delivers on its promise of smart, efficient, and fun transportation.