Honda Zest
A clever, low-floor kei car designed for maximum utility in a compact footprint.
- Power
- 52 bhp
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $1k–$6k
About the Honda Zest
Introduced in 2006, the Honda Zest is a tall-wagon kei car based on the fifth-generation Honda Life platform. It was specifically engineered with a low-floor design to provide class-leading interior space and a tailgate height of just 53cm for easy loading. The Zest was notable for being the first kei car to offer optional side curtain airbags for both front and rear passengers, reflecting Honda's focus on safety in the small car segment. While primarily a domestic Japanese market vehicle, it has gained a following as a grey import due to its practical 'box-on-wheels' styling and reliable P07A engine.
Honda Zest specs
The Honda Zest produces 52 bhp (39 kW) and 61 Nm (45 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Zest |
| Trim | 660cc |
| Years | 2006–2012 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 658cc P07A i-DSI 3-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 658 cc (0.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 52 bhp (39 kW) at 6,700 rpm |
| Torque | 61 Nm (45 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 880 kg (1,940 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 59 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Honda Zest worth?
A typical Honda Zest is estimated to be worth $1,200 – $6,000 (about £895 – £4,500).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Honda Zest rarity in CarSpot
The Honda Zest is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Honda Zest fun facts
- The Zest's low-floor technology allowed it to have a cabin height equivalent to the much larger Honda StepWGN minivan.
- In 2008, Honda collaborated with J-Pop star Ayumi Hamasaki to promote the 'Zest Spark' variant, which featured a stylized 'A' in the logo.
- The Zest was the first vehicle in the minicar class to feature Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure for improved crash safety.