Honda Stepwgn Hybrid Review: Space, Fuel Economy & Unique Rear Door Explained

The Honda Stepwgn Hybrid is one of Japan’s most versatile and efficient hybrid people movers. Known for its exceptional interior space, outstanding fuel consumption and the unique “Waku Waku Gate” rear door, the Stepwgn has become a favourite for Australian families looking for a practical and economical seven-seat vehicle.

This review explains how the Stepwgn Hybrid works, what makes it different from rivals, and why it is an excellent choice for daily family use. To view available vehicles, visit our Hybrid People Movers Collection.

Hybrid System Explained

Most Honda Stepwgn Hybrid models use Honda’s i-MMD / e:HEV system, a full hybrid setup where the electric motor does the majority of the driving. The petrol engine works primarily as a generator at lower speeds and directly powers the wheels only when needed at highway speeds.

• Electric motor provides smooth, quiet acceleration
• Excellent fuel efficiency in city and suburban driving
• No need to plug in – self-charging hybrid system
• Hybrid battery engineered for long service life

The result is an efficient and refined drive that feels more modern than many traditional people movers.

Outstanding Fuel Economy

The Stepwgn Hybrid offers fuel consumption figures that are significantly lower than many petrol people movers. Typical real-world economy ranges from 5.5–6.5 L/100km depending on driving style and load.

Compared with competitors:

• Honda Stepwgn Hybrid: ~4.5–5.5 L/100km
• Toyota Noah/Voxy Hybrid: ~5.0–6.0 L/100km
• Nissan Serena e-Power: ~5.0–6.0 L/100km

This places the Stepwgn among the most efficient people movers available in Australia.

Unique “Waku Waku Gate” Rear Door

One of the Stepwgn’s most recognisable features is its innovative rear door design. Instead of a traditional lift-up tailgate only, the Stepwgn’s “Waku Waku Gate” opens in two ways:

• The entire rear hatch lifts upward like a normal tailgate
• A smaller door section swings sideways for quick access

This makes loading groceries, school bags or prams extremely convenient in tight parking spaces. It is a practical advantage that many families appreciate once they experience it.

Interior Space and Comfort

The Stepwgn is known for its boxy, high-roof design, which maximises cabin space and comfort. It is one of the roomiest Japanese hybrid people movers in its segment.

• Available in seven seats
• Flat floor for easy movement inside the cabin
• Excellent headroom and legroom in all rows
• Sliding side doors for easy access in tight carparks

The tall cabin and deep floor create one of the best passenger layouts for families, rideshare drivers and long-distance travel.

Driving Experience

The hybrid drivetrain delivers a surprisingly smooth and quiet driving experience. Low-speed EV operation makes city driving relaxed, and the electric motor’s torque helps the Stepwgn accelerate confidently even when fully loaded.

• Quiet cabin with minimal engine noise
• Comfortable suspension suited to Australian roads
• Stable handling thanks to the long wheelbase

Reliability and Hybrid Battery Life

Honda’s hybrid technology is known for durability. With proper servicing, the Stepwgn Hybrid’s battery and electric motors are designed for long-term use. Many owners exceed 300,000 km of driving with minimal hybrid-related issues.

For information on battery servicing, visit our Hybrid Battery Replacement section.

Honda Stepwgn vs Other Japanese People Movers

Model	Hybrid Type	Fuel Economy	Interior Space	Key Feature
Honda Stepwgn Hybrid	Full Hybrid (i-MMD / e:HEV)	Excellent	Outstanding	Unique rear “Waku Waku Gate”
Nissan Serena e-Power	Series Hybrid	Very Good	Very Good	EV-like driving feel
Toyota Noah/Voxy Hybrid	Full Hybrid	Excellent	Very Good	Proven Toyota reliability

Who Should Choose a Honda Stepwgn Hybrid?

• Families needing maximum space in all three rows
• Drivers wanting excellent fuel economy
• Buyers who transport children, equipment or mobility items
• People who appreciate unique door access and practicality
• Those looking for a modern, comfortable people mover with hybrid efficiency

To see available models, visit our Honda Stock or browse our People Movers Collection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda Stepwgn Hybrid reliable?

Yes. Honda’s hybrid systems are known for their reliability, with many vehicles exceeding 300,000 km when serviced properly.

Does the Stepwgn Hybrid need to be plugged in?

No. It is a self-charging hybrid that recharges automatically through driving and regenerative braking.

What is the “Waku Waku Gate”?

It is a dual-function rear door that opens either upward like a traditional tailgate or sideways for quick access in tight spaces.

How economical is the Stepwgn Hybrid?

Most owners achieve 4.5–5.5 L/100km, making it one of the most efficient people movers available.

Is the Stepwgn spacious enough for adults in all rows?

Yes. The tall cabin, flat floor and long wheelbase provide excellent space for adults in all three rows.