Honda That S JA-IV 0.7 i 12V (52 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Honda That S:

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)

JA-IV Overview:

Honda That S (JA-IV). With 61 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 820 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

0.7 i 12V (52 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

A basic, naturally aspirated engine providing adequate power for city driving. Acceleration is modest, suitable for low-speed urban environments where agility and compactness are prioritized over outright speed.

Fuel Economy

Excellent fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for daily city commutes. The simpler design often translates to lower running costs and potentially better long-term reliability.

Best Use Case: Strictly urban commuting, short trips, budget-conscious drivers, and those prioritizing maximum fuel economy.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Extremely compact and maneuverable, ideal for city driving
  • • Excellent fuel efficiency (especially NA models)
  • • Practical and versatile interior for its size, surprising headroom
  • • Reliable Honda engineering and build quality
  • • Distinctive, retro-inspired styling stands out
  • • Low running costs (tax/insurance in Japan)

Cons:

  • • Limited power for highway speeds or sustained long-distance travel
  • • Basic interior features and materials compared to larger cars
  • • Small cargo capacity with all seats up
  • • Not designed for high-speed stability or spirited driving
  • • Safety features are basic by modern standards

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Honda
Model:That S
Generation:JA-IV
Modification (Engine):0.7 i 12V (52 Hp)
Start of production:2003
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:4
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:52 Hp @ 7200 rpm.
Power per litre:79.3 Hp/l
Torque:61 Nm @ 4500 rpm.
Engine displacement:656
Number of cylinders:3
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:OHC
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:66 mm mm
Piston Stroke:64 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Weight-to-power ratio:15.8 kg/Hp, 63.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:13.4 kg/Nm, 74.4 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:820
Max. weight:1040
Max load:220
Fuel tank capacity:31 l
Size:
Length:3395 mm mm
Width:1475 mm mm
Height:1620 mm mm
Wheelbase:2360 mm mm
Front track:1305 mm
Rear (Back) track:1295 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):9 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears3
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDrum
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size145/80 R12
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionSuspension De-Dion

Does the Honda That S live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!