About the Honda Freed
The Honda Freed is a compact multi-purpose vehicle primarily built for the Japanese domestic market, with right-hand drive models increasingly imported to the UK. Launched in 2008, the Freed offers flexible seating configurations for up to eight passengers in a footprint smaller than traditional MPVs. The second generation arrived in 2016 with updated styling, improved safety features and Honda's hybrid powertrain option.
Most UK examples are Japanese imports featuring either a 1.5-litre petrol engine or a 1.5-litre hybrid system paired with Honda's i-DCD dual-clutch transmission. The Freed's sliding rear doors, low floor height and modular seating make it popular with families seeking practicality in an urban-friendly package. Build quality is typically excellent, reflecting Honda's reputation for reliability.
What Affects the Price of a Used Honda Freed
Model year: Newer second-generation models (2016 onwards) command significantly higher prices than first-generation examples. The facelift models from 2019 with updated safety systems are at the premium end of the market.
Hybrid vs petrol: Hybrid variants typically cost £2,000–£4,000 more than equivalent petrol models due to better fuel economy and lower running costs, making them highly sought after in the UK.
Mileage: Low-mileage examples under 30,000 miles attract a premium. Japanese imports often have lower mileage than UK-average vehicles, which can positively affect pricing.
Import status: Freshly imported models with full UK conversion (speedometer, headlights, radio) and registered with DVLA hold value better than those requiring work. Service history and import documentation are crucial for resale value.
Specification: Models with desirable features like power sliding doors, rear entertainment systems, Honda Sensing safety suite and premium trim levels command higher prices. Seven-seat configurations are more common and sometimes preferred over eight-seat variants.
Tips for Buying a Used Honda Freed
Verify import documentation: Ensure the vehicle has proper UK registration, a valid V5C logbook and all import paperwork including the original Japanese de-registration certificate. Check the VIN matches all documents.
Check the conversion work: Inspect that headlights are correctly aligned for UK roads, the speedometer displays mph (or has been converted), and rear fog lights comply with UK regulations. Poor conversion work can affect insurance and MOT compliance.
Hybrid battery health: For hybrid models, have the battery system checked by a specialist. While Honda hybrid batteries are generally reliable, replacement can be costly. Look for smooth transitions between electric and petrol power during test drives.
Service history: Japanese service records are valuable even if in Japanese. Look for stamps or documentation showing regular maintenance. Establish a service schedule with a Honda specialist or independent garage familiar with imports.
Rust inspection: Check underneath for corrosion, particularly around sills and suspension mounting points. Japanese vehicles can be susceptible to UK winter road salt if not properly protected post-import.
Test all features: Operate sliding doors multiple times, check air conditioning function, test all electrical systems and ensure the CVT or dual-clutch transmission shifts smoothly without juddering or hesitation.