Honda S-MX 2.0 i 16V (140 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.1 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Honda S-MX:

The Honda S-MX is a compact MPV produced by Honda, sold between 1996 and 2002.
The S-MX was based on the S-MX Concept model first exhibited at the 31st Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, and was similar in appearance to the larger Honda Stepwgn, shortened substantially in length and height. Whereas the Stepwgn had three rows of seating to accommodate eight passengers the smaller S-MX has two rows of seating for four or five passengers. In order to maximize space for passengers the S-MX uses a front bench seat and a column shifter for the four-speed automatic transmission....(Read more on Wikipedia)

S-MX Overview:

Honda S-MX (S-MX). With 186 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.62 l/100km). With a weight of 1370 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 160 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Honda S-MX was primarily a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle and was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. Therefore, no star rating or specific test year is available from this program.

2.0 i 16V (140 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

The most potent engine in the lineup, offering the best balance of power and efficiency for the S-MX. Provides confident acceleration for a compact minivan.

Fuel Economy

Likely the most fuel-efficient option among the 2.0L engines, benefiting from FWD and optimized power delivery. Good for mixed driving conditions.

Best Use Case: Primary family vehicle, urban and highway driving, and those seeking the best overall driving experience from the S-MX.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Unique and distinctive styling, especially for a minivan
  • • Surprisingly spacious and practical interior for its compact footprint
  • • Honda's renowned reliability and durable B-series engine
  • • Available 4WD option for improved traction in varied conditions
  • • Good visibility and easy to maneuver in urban environments

Cons:

  • • Limited power across the engine lineup, not built for speed
  • • Primarily a JDM import, which can make parts and servicing challenging outside Japan
  • • Older safety technology compared to modern vehicles (no Euro NCAP rating)
  • • Fuel economy, especially for 4WD models, can be average by modern standards
  • • Right-hand drive only, which can be a barrier for some markets

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Honda
Model:S-MX
Generation:S-MX
Modification (Engine):2.0 i 16V (140 Hp)
Start of production:1996
End of production:2002
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:4
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:140 Hp @ 5500 rpm.
Power per litre:71 Hp/l
Torque:186 Nm @ 4200 rpm.
Engine displacement:1973
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:84 mm
Piston Stroke:89 mm
Compression ratio:9.6:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.62 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.35 l/100 km
Maximum speed:160 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.8 kg/Hp, 102.2 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.4 kg/Nm, 135.8 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1370
Max. weight:1645
Max load:275
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:920 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:340 l
Fuel tank capacity:65 l
Size:
Length:3935 mm
Width:1695 mm
Height:1735 mm
Wheelbase:2500 mm
Front track:1490 mm
Rear (Back) track:1490 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDrum
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/65 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionDouble wishbone

Your first impression of the Honda S-MX in one word? Go!