SUMMARY
A unique vehicle under the Honda Clarity lineup, the Clarity Fuel Cell offers advanced propulsion systems through its Hydrogen Fuel Cell. It comes with staggering fuel efficiency, besting the plug-in hybrid models in driving range. However, it is only available to drivers in California as the state is one of the only places in the US with support for Hydrogen-fueled cars. This review on the 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell will look into the different features and specs that this mid-sized sedan holds.
LATEST
The 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, along with its plug-in hybrid counterparts, will be the last production models for this series. Honda has now pulled the plug on all models of the Clarity, with no plans to continue after the 2021 model.
ESTIMATED PRICE
The 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is special with its price, as it is only offered in a lease deal from the company. Not only that, but it is also only available in California which is one of the only places in the US with Hydrogen fueling stations. The company’s site does not make any mention on the car’s MSRP. Along with that, most buyers outside the state will not be eligible to purchase this version of the 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell.
MACHINE PERFORMANCE
The 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell’s specs slightly differ from its plug-in hybrid counterparts, making use of an electric motor which draws power from the hydrogen fuel cell. It is capable of 174 horsepower and a torque output of 221 pounds-feet. What makes this model special is that the fuel cell is the sole source of power for the car, unlike that of the hybrid models. Through a chemical process wherein oxygen and hydrogen create electricity, the car produces no form of carbon emission whatsoever. Honda themselves have not released any information on the 0-60 time for the 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell. However, what we do know is that the drive feel of the Clarity Fuel Cell is quite similar to that of the Plug-in Hybrid model. It only comes in a front-wheel drive variant along with a 1-speed Direct-Drive Transmission.
FUEL EFFICIENT & ACTUAL MPG
The 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell has scored an impressive range of MPG scores which prove its efficiency as a green vehicle. Its EPA rating is as follows:
| Trim Mileage Estimates | City/mpg | Highway/mpg | Combined/mpg |
| 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell | 68 | 67 | 68 |
According to another estimation by the EPA, the 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell has a driving range of 360 miles. Of course, this depends on various factors such as driving styles and road conditions. However, one thing to note is that Honda has stated on their Roadside Assistance terms that the Clarity Fuel Cell was meant to help drivers avoid running low on fuel. Should this happen, the company does offer free transportation for you and your car to the nearest hydrogen fueling station.
INTERIOR, SOLACE & BAGGAGE
The interior of the 2021 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell is spacious, able to fit 5 passengers within the cabin. It comes with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The driver’s seat comes power adjustable, as well as the front passenger’s seat. They also come with heating capabilities, as well as adjustable seat belt anchors. All seats come in Perforated Leather trims, with the rear coming in with Center Armrests for comfort. In terms of cargo capacity, the Clarity Fuel Cell hosts about 11.8 cubic feet of cargo volume. This should be enough for small trips outside the city but may be a small amount of space for families looking into this sedan for longer vacations.
TECHNOLOGY
The infotainment suite on the Clarity Fuel Cell starts off with an 8-inch Display with touchscreen capabilities and other customizable features. It comes integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as access to SiriusXM’s Radio services. There is also Bluetooth connectivity for those who wish to use this connectivity option not only for streaming media but also for hands-free operation of their smartphones. The Audio system fitted onto the Clarity is a 12-speaker Audio System that comes with an included Subwoofer. All models of the Clarity Fuel Cell are also fitted with Honda’s Satellite-linked Navigation System. It comes with voice recognition features and digital traffic visualization, as well as a locator for the nearest Hydrogen Fueling Stations.
SAFETY
A good amount of safety features and driver-assistance technologies come standard to the Clarity Fuel Cell. Equipped with Honda Sensing Technologies, it comes with features such as Collision and Road Departure Mitigation Systems and an Automated Emergency Braking. Other active safety features include Anti-Lock Braking Systems, Electronic Brake Distribution, Daytime Running Lights, and a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera.
WARRANTY
Honda offers a variety of warranty plans to new buyers of the Clarity Fuel Cell. The Limited warranty is covered for 3 years or the first 36,000 miles driven, whichever comes first. The Powertrain is also under warranty, with terms lasting for 5 years or the first 60,000 miles driven. There is also a rust perforation warranty plan that spans for 5 years regardless of miles driven. Lastly, drivers can avail of a replacement 12-volt battery for the Clarity within the span of 8 years and 4 months since the date of purchase.