Honda Life - Second Generation (1997-1998)

Second Generation (1997-1998)

In 1997, the Life name was resurrected for a new line of small, front wheel drive 5-door MPV style cars, which required a redesign for 1998 because of new Japanese taxing regulations. The Life used the three-cylinder Honda E07A engine. It replaced the Honda Today and was available exclusively in Japan at Honda Primo dealerships. This bodystyle appearance was introduced in response to the popularity of the Suzuki Wagon R, which found many buyers, and competes with the Daihatsu Cuore, Subaru Pleo, and the Mitsubishi Toppo in the "tall wagon" segment of kei cars.

It was introduced as a revision of the 1970s "StepVan" appearance, sharing the second generation Honda Today basic components. Powertrain and chassis, interior, dimensions almost identical with the Honda Today. Was an interim model that reflected changes in the law regulating kei cars, and due to subsequent changes in the law again, this version was only built for about one and a half years.

It used the Honda E07A engine, 660 cc SOHC 3-cylinder, 12 valves per cylinder, with Honda's PGM-FI as standard equipment. Transmission is 5 speed manual transmissions, or a 3-speed automatic transmission.

It was also included with a driver side "SRS" airbag, heat absorption ultraviolet radiation glass, antibacterial steering wheel, and an antilock brake system available options. Grade system was the three grades of "B", "G" and "T". The use of one windshield wiper for the front windshield was carried over from the Honda Today.