Idling-stop systems help improve fuel economy by stopping the engine when the car slows to a crawl. Over the past few years, other Japanese carmakers have aggressively added them to their new models. But Honda has not done so for any of its own gasoline-powered vehicles, even as an option.

In now embracing idling-stop, Honda aims to use fuel efficiency as a weapon to win a greater share of the minivehicle market. Its new wagon-type minivehicle, with its tall profile and roomy interior, will offer a best-in-class fuel economy of 25km per liter [54 mpg US, 4.35 L/100m].