2019 Honda Clarity Electric

The midsize Honda Clarity trio gives the world a glimpse of alternative energy transportation, not just in the form of hybridization and electrification, but hydrogen fuel cells too. It's part of Honda's commitment to a greener future and shows that it'll be ready for whichever form of technology ultimately replaces the traditional gasoline/diesel combustion engine. While the Clarity Plug-In is available nationwide, the Electric is only offered in the states of Oregon and California. Available for lease from $199 per month, both states offer $2,500 incentives, while a federal tax rebate of up to $7,500 also applies. A 25.5-kWh battery pack supplies electricity to a 161 horsepower, 221 lb-ft electric motor driving the front wheels through a single-speed transmission. In a world of ever-improving EVs, the Clarity Electric offers just 89 miles of range on a charge, which is a far cry from chief rivals like the Chevy Bolt and Hyundai Kona Electric who offer 238- and 258-miles respectively.

The Honda Clarity Electric is available on a lease-only basis in the states of California and Oregon, with a downpayment of $1,799 and a monthly payment thereafter of $199 for 36 months, excluding tax, registration, license, and dealer fees. There's just one trim available, but your monthly fee is for a highly equipped derivative, and lessees are able to spec the Clarity with a range of exterior additions and accessories inside and out.

But central to the decision to buy an EV is often the rebates and incentives available, and the Clarity is no different. Both California and Oregon offer $2,500 as part of their Clean Vehicle Rebate systems. As the Clarity Electric is lease only, it does not qualify for the federal tax rebate of $7,500 that the PHEV qualifies for.

Those expecting something sporty from an EV are better off vying for a Hyundai Kona Electric because the Clarity Electric is anything but. Low-rolling-resistance tires don't have an abundance of grip when cornering with vigor, while the suspension isn't really set up for performance either. But, it is geared towards smoothness, and for the most part, the Clarity cruises plushly along the roadway. However, it can get floaty on anything but the smoothest of surfaces, and undulations make the Clarity feel boat-like the way it porpoises over bumps. There's an abundance of body-lean, even under mild cornering, and changes of direction yield an unsavory heaving sensation as the Clarity doesn't change direction effectively. The brakes on the plug-in and FCV models are a standout feature, but on the Clarity Electric, they feel sub-par. There's no feel and the pedal feels unnaturally soft under heavy braking.

It's not all bad, though, as the Clarity Electric's steering is pretty decent. It responds well to inputs and the front end is keen on initial turn-in. Feedback is nill, but at least the responses are reliable and consistent. On the whole, the Clarity Electric is best handled in a mild manner and within city limits where the roads are smoother and less curvaceous.

There are a lot of reasons why the Clarity Electric may seem an attractive proposition if you're in the EV market, like the attractive lease offer, access to the HOV lane in the state of California, and the fact that it's available in Oregon, too, while several EVs are only available in California. The incentives and possible tax credits are also huge factors to consider. The Clarity combines a spacious interior with decent levels of specification and approachable looks, too, which all seem very attractive. But there are a few flaws, including the infuriating infotainment, floaty suspension, and poor electric range, all of which are big problems for us. The latter is a particular concern when class-leaders in the EV segment offer more than four times the range, along with better driving dynamics and more cargo volume. As far as EVs go, the Clarity Electric isn't the best car you can lease. If you must have a Clarity, the FCV and PHEV are both better in many aspects, but if you're willing to shop elsewhere, we'd recommend a Chevrolet Bolt or Hyundai Kona Electric.

There's only one option available, but thankfully it's well-equipped. However if buying is on your mind then the Clarity isn't for you - Honda only offers it on a lease basis, while other manufacturers allow you to purchase their EVs outright.

While both models share the same architecture, there are key differences between the two. The Electric is available more widely, with dealers in Oregon also offering the Electric, while the FCV is limited exclusively to California. The Clarity Electric also offers a larger cargo bay, and the rear seats fold in a 60/40 split to offer more storage space, while the FCV's hydrogen tanks occupy space and limit practicality. But the Clarity Fuel Cell offers more power with 174 horsepower and crucially manages 366 miles of zero-emission motoring pleasure. Despite the limited availability and practicality, we feel the Fuel Cell is the better Clarity.

The Chevrolet Bolt offers all the same federal tax credits and state rebates as the Clarity Electric but crucially is available nationwide. Not only that, but it offers more power, more practicality thanks to the enormous volume provided by the hatchback opening, and the biggest drawcard is that it offers a 238-mile range on a full charge. The Clarity Electric simple can't match the Bolt in this regard, and matters get more woeful for the Clarity as its infotainment system is terrible to use and doesn't offer the ride composure and enjoyable driving dynamics of the Bolt. While a quality interior and decent interior room might be in the Honda's favor, the Chevrolet Bolt is simply the better EV.