2021 Honda Clarity

Honda offers the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid in standard and Touring trims, while the hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell model comes in one style. Base pricing for the Plug-In starts around $33,500. It has 18-inch alloy wheels, a tire inflator kit, and a driver safety technology suite to help avoid collisions on the road. Those include automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a blind-spot camera. The Clarity is comfortable and well-equipped for families and commuters alike, with automatic LED headlights, cloth upholstery, heated front seats, split-folding back seats, keyless ignition, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The Touring adds luxurious details for $37,000, like navigation, a leather interior, power-adjustable front seats, and memory side mirrors. The Fuel Cell comes fully loaded for its $58,500 starting price. Along with being powered by hydrogen, it has lane-keep assist, a head-up display, rain-detecting wipers, and heated side mirrors.

Many shoppers these days want better fuel economy, and the Clarity comes in plug-in hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell variants. The plug-in hybrid uses both a gas engine and a rechargeable electric battery to provide owners with two fuel options, giving it great versatility. The Plug-In’s gas-electric powertrain produces a combined 212 hp and 99 lb-ft of torque. It isn’t swift, but the engine does return an EPA-estimated 42 mpg in mixed driving. An onboard 17-kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged at home in 12 hours. Fully charged, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid can travel up to 47 miles on electricity alone, making it a great choice as a daily commuter. Those wanting to take another step into the future can opt for the Clarity Fuel Cell, which comes with an electric motor and an onboard hydrogen fuel tank. The system includes a single-speed direct-drive transmission and front-wheel drive. It gets an EPA-estimated 68 mpg combined, surpassing any hybrid vehicle on the market. The powertrain produces 174 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque.

The Clarity has a modern and tech-focused cabin that balances style with practicality. Like all Honda cars, the steering wheel and transmission controls are within easy reach. The driver instrument cluster is clear and straightforward. Honda places air vents around the front-seat area for good air circulation. The sleek dashboard includes soft fabric and wood trim for a sustainable and upmarket feel. Passenger space is very good in the front, with plenty of headroom and legroom for tall adults. There is ample in-cabin storage, including a useful bin under the transmission selector. Those sitting in the back don’t have quite as much space, but kids and most teens will fit comfortably without any issue. The Clarity Plug-In offers a 15.5-cubic-foot trunk, providing excellent capacity for hauling bulky strollers and other family cargo. Cargo room is limited in the Fuel Cell, providing just 11.8 cubic feet. There is a noticeable bump in the trunk, but it is still enough room for a couple of golf bags. Situated in the dashboard center is an easy-to-operate 8-inch touchscreen that handles all of the car’s infotainment features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included for smartphone integration. A Honda navigation system comes with the upper trim levels. Top models also get a 540-watt sound system. The Clarity lags rivals with tech, though. A WiFi hotspot is not available, nor are ventilated seats. But perforated leather upholstery is available for a more luxurious feel.