Stock #6216

Most people think Honda's experience with building fun and reliable transporters begins and ends with the Odyssey. Enthusiasts know that the brand's Japanese market lineup was the cream of the crop, and models like this 1996 StepWgn are a great reason why. With standout styling, seating for eight, and a reliable drivetrain shared with the CR-V, the StepWgn boom is hitting hard here in the states and this is as good an example as any with its 66k verified miles on the clock. Wearing a one-off FRP front lip and side skirts, the exterior stands out from most plebeian commuters and is finished in Vogue Silver Metallic (NH-583M). Aiding the aesthetic are OEM rainguards, subtle privacy tint, and some 18" Grayza Euroline dupes. Save for a replaced front left fender and some imperfections in the clearcoat, this transporter stands out with its black roof and should do the job at hauling the kids around in style. Fun to own, frugal to operate, and downright useful to have around, the RF1 StepWgn is one of our new favorite Japanese Classics!

The interior is everything you'd expect out of a great people hauler. It is crafted with durable materials, has plenty of power amenities, and is easy to configure multiple seating arrangements. The seats are upholstered in a durable patterned cloth and have resisted most typical rips, stains, and tears after 25 years of use and abuse on the road. The middle row has a conveniently deployable jump seat, and the third row can easily stash aside the D-pillars to maximize cargo space in the rear. To maximize interior comfort, dual-zone heat and A/C are available and work like a charm. Additionally, the driver gains access to two power windows up front, as well as power locks and electric folding side mirrors. While the Sony audio has given up the ghost, the dash still houses dual SRS airbags to keep you and your passenger safe behind the wheel. Save for a spot of adhesive atop the dash cover, the remaining materials have resisted any UV cracking or distortion although there is some yellowing present on the pillar plastics and the rear vinyl trip has bubbled and peeled up over the years. The headliner is taut and stain-free, and the carpets below are protected by some OEM mats. Enthusiasts will appreciate the VIP table mounted atop the glove box which can conveniently store some canned beverages or a pack of smokes. This StepWgn is way cooler than your mom's minivan, and it's the perfect retro hauler for the 21st century. We even retained the original owner's manual and maintenance booklets for a bit of added history!

This van's most enticing feature may well be the mechanicals, as this front-drive runabout is nearly identical to CRV's sold stateside! Power is provided via the same B20B that powers USDM vehicles, making parts availability a walk in the park. We went ahead and took care of an initial service, and a new valve cover gasket and distributor o-ring were installed to keep the lubrication from a fresh oil and filter service internal. She springs to life care of a new 12v battery and a brand new radiator was installed, taking care of one of the harder to find Japan-specific parts. A new fuel filter keeps contaminants out of your petrol and with the maintenance performed, this four banger zips right up to highway speeds without issue. An automatic gearbox throws power to the front wheels and is geared nicely for higher speed driving as well. The suspension glides over road imperfections large and small and this van has excellent ground clearance, making parking lot exits and entry a cinch. We replaced a CV axle and inner tie rod on the front right to shore up the handling and this van drives right as rain after a fresh alignment. It stops well too, although we must note the ABS light is illuminated due to an issue with the pump. Further aiding grip, comfort, and overall ride quality, we wrapped the snazzy 18's in fresh all-season rubber, sure to deliver plenty of traction for tens of thousands of miles to come!

*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.