New Honda S2000 Offers An Enhanced Driving Experience
Published: 11th October 2003
Externally, the Honda S2000’s distinctive arrow-like nose with its sweeping headlamp covers now takes on a subtly different, more sporty appearance with the adoption of a ‘triple beam’ headlamp assembly. Projector style HID (high intensity discharge) low beam headlamps are now flanked by a traditional reflector design high beam and separate indicators and parking lights.
The design motif is complemented at the rear by new triple lens taillights, which make use of LED technology for greater brightness and responsiveness, set beneath a clear lens. Innermost is the rear foglamp; next is the indicator with reflective surround, and outside of this is a combined LED brake light/ LED tail light unit. Finally, there is an LED side marker set in a reflective housing.
A revised bumper provides a more powerful presence to the overall appearance of the Honda S2000’s rear view. Its lower edge now reaches down to, and is flush with, new twin chromed and oval-shaped exhaust tailpipes.
While the high-revving, 240 PS DOHC VTEC engine remains unchanged in the latest Honda S2000, under the bonnet there is no mistaking its pedigree and advanced characteristics: ‘HONDA’ is now prominently emblazoned on the red and black cam cover alongside the ‘DOHC VTEC’ notation.
Inner evolution
The ‘cockpit’ flavour of the Honda S2000’s cabin is retained, but for 2004, occupants now have more room to move thanks to resculpted door panels at both elbow and shoulder level – elbow room is increased by up to 20mm. At the same time, a deeper door pocket can accommodate even more items. New detailing includes a seamless leather trim for the gear knob, a leather gear shift surround, and the application of silver trim to the headrests, audio panel and centre console – here a new storage tray provides useful storage space for small items as well as two cup holders (rather than one), covered by a one-touch sliding lid. Finally a new ‘H’ mark is applied to the steering wheel boss.
The styling of the metal-finish interior elements is mirrored in the design of a new, distinctive key, with its anti-slip fob, Honda S2000 logo, and, most significantly ‘wave type’ design for added security.
The digital instrument display is now more legible, with the distance between the segments of the tachometer reduced. A digital clock has also been added.
In a novel solution to the inherent problem of providing good audio performance in a convertible sportscar, Honda now offers customers the option of an additional pair of 30W speakers that are mounted in the seat headrests. The neat installation behind the headrest aperture mesh is unobtrusive and the output perfectly complements the standard door-mounted main speakers and tweeters.
Additions to already comprehensive levels of equipment include heated door mirrors, while security is boosted by a microwave based intrusion-detection system that remains unaffected by subtle movements of the hood fabric. A new door handle lock rod protector is a further security enhancement.
The new red and black interior trim is complemented by an extended choice of body colours which includes a new and richer Indy Yellow pearlescent, selected to fully convey the Honda S2000’s sporting intent.
The new Honda S2000 will be available from January 2004 priced as follows.
- S2000 - £26,500
- S2000 GT - £27,500
