by The Honda Acty Review & Specs
The 1977 Honda Acty Kei truck. The micro vans and trucks have evolved through four generations, emphasizing compact design and fuel efficiency. The name “Acty” reflects its active functionality. The optional four-wheel drive enhances its agricultural utility. Although lacking luxury features like air conditioning or power steering, the Acty is a reliable workhorse designed to handle diverse terrains.
The Honda T360 & S500 1963-1967
The Honda T360, launched in June 1963, marked Honda's entry into production automobiles, arriving four months before the S500 Sports. A more powerful version, the T500, was introduced for export markets, featuring a 356 cc DOHC inline-four engine and reaching a top speed of 62 mph. In 1964, Honda launched the larger T500 with a 531 cc engine, generating 37 HP and a top speed of 65 mph. The T360 came in rear-wheel drive, flatbed (the T360F), flatbed with folding sides (the T360H), and a covered van (the T360V). A Crawler with tracks for snowy terrains.
First-Gen Honda Acty 1977-1988
The Honda Acty debuted on July 27, 1977, marking Honda's entry into the kei truck and microvan. It succeeded the Honda TN360, bringing with it Honda’s reliability and efficiency. Early models featured a mid-mounted 545cc two-cylinder SOHC engine delivering 27 HP. In November 1979, the Honda Street van was launched in 1981, catering to passenger needs. The Street name phased out in 2001 but influenced the Honda Vamos. By 1982, updates included wrap-around turn signals and a four-wheel drive.
Performance
The centrally mounted engine was a two-cylinder, four-stroke, water-cooled engine with the option of four-wheel drive.
Specifications
The first-generation Acty featured a 545cc two-cylinder engine. Available in truck and van formats, it included a 4-speed manual transmission and an optional 2-speed automatic.
Design
This compact design made both variants spacious and practical.
Second-Gen Honda Acty 1988-1999
The second generation of the Honda Acty debuted in May 1988, building on the first generation's success with performance, comfort, and safety improvements. It featured a new E05A 547cc three-cylinder engine producing 34 HP and was available in both trucks (HA1, HA2) and vans (HH1, HH2), including an "Attack" model for off-road use. By March 1990, updates included square headlights and a longer body. The E07A engine was introduced, increasing to 38 HP. 1993 saw larger headlights and a PGM-FI version delivering 44 HP. The HA5 Crawler, launched in 1994, had tracked wheels.
Specifications
The second-generation Acty features a 660cc three-cylinder engine, full-time 4WD, electronic fuel injection, and a 5-speed manual.
Design
Retaining the “cab-over” design, the updated model has more rounded contours and a drop-side bed for easy loading, while the van has air conditioning and power steering.
Performance
This generation’s 660cc engine provides improved efficiency and power, especially in 4WD models. The notable Realtime 4WD automatically engages RWD when the front loses traction.
Third-Gen Honda Acty 1999-2009
The third generation of the Acty was released on May 27, 1999, featuring improved safety, performance, and comfort while meeting Japan's updated safety standards. It maintained a mid-mounted engine, launching a low-emission 656cc LEV engine with 45 HP, later upgraded to 53 PS with the E07Z engine. The SDX was the standard version; The Town was the comfortable version, and Attack had a low and high diff. With the option of manual, automatic, or CVT options for a tailored driving experience.
Design
This generation showcased aesthetic updates for a sleeker look. The interior saw improved ergonomics.
Performance
It retained the three-cylinder 660cc engine, now optimized for better power and fuel efficiency. Enhanced suspension and handling, with a CVT option.
Safety
Safety was prioritized, introducing features like ABS, power steering and dual front airbags. The 2001 Acty Crawler, a specialized 4WD version, was designed for tough off-road use.
Fourth & Fifth-Gen Honda Acty 2009-Present
On December 17, 2009, the fourth-generation Honda Acty (HA8 2WD, HA9 4WD) was introduced, featuring the E07Z engine with 45 PS (44 HP). This model had a shorter wheelbase and minor updates for lighting regulations in 2012. In 2018, Honda celebrated the 55th anniversary of the Acty with the Spirit Colour Style special edition. The 2018 fifth generation focuses on Safety, comfort, and performance. This includes the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
Specifications
The fifth-generation Acty features a 660cc three-cylinder engine, safety technologies, and improved ergonomics.
Design
This generation introduced modern elements and updated appearance.
Performance
This model emphasizes safety and comfort.