Honda, a name synonymous with reliability and ingenious engineering, has long been celebrated for producing vehicles that punch above their weight. From fuel-efficient cars to robust SUVs, Honda’s commitment to quality is undeniable. But beyond their mainstream offerings lies a hidden gem in their lineup, particularly for those who appreciate compact utility: the Small Honda Pickup Truck, epitomized by the iconic Honda Acty Truck.
While Honda might not be the first name that springs to mind when you think of pickup trucks in the American market, globally, and especially in Japan, their “Kei” trucks like the Acty have carved out a legendary status. These aren’t your average full-size, gas-guzzling pickups. Instead, they are masters of efficiency and practicality, perfectly tailored for navigating tight urban spaces and tackling demanding tasks in compact environments.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of a small Honda pickup truck that’s both charming and incredibly capable, then you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the world of these miniature marvels, exploring what makes the Honda Acty Truck a standout in the realm of compact commercial vehicles.
What is the Honda Acty Truck? A Kei Truck Overview
The Honda Acty Truck belongs to the “Kei truck” class, a uniquely Japanese category of micro-vehicles designed to be exceptionally practical while adhering to strict size and engine displacement regulations. “Kei” (軽自動車) translates to “light automobile,” and these vehicles benefit from tax and insurance advantages in Japan, making them incredibly popular for businesses and individuals alike.
Born from the innovative spirit of Honda, the Acty Truck has been in continuous production since 1977. The name “Acty” itself is derived from “Activity,” highlighting its intended versatility and workhorse nature. Primarily designed for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM), the Acty Truck has gained a cult following worldwide for its unique blend of diminutive size and surprising capability.
In the competitive landscape of Kei trucks, the Honda Acty Truck faces rivals such as the Mitsubishi Minicab, Nissan Clipper, Mazda Scrum, Daihatsu Hijet, Suzuki Carry, and Subaru Sambar. Yet, the Acty Truck consistently stands out, emphasizing its adaptability and proving that size is no barrier to utility. It’s a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess, delivering a small Honda pickup truck that’s big on performance where it truly counts.
A Legacy of Littleness: Honda Acty Truck Generations
The Honda Acty Truck’s journey through the years is a fascinating evolution of compact truck design. Each generation has brought refinements and improvements, solidifying its place as a leader in the Kei truck segment.
First Generation Honda Acty Truck (1977-1988): The Original Micro-Mover
Alt text: First Generation Honda Acty Truck, a classic small pickup with a boxy design, highlighting its compact size and utilitarian nature.
The inaugural Honda Acty Truck rolled onto the scene in 1977, marking the dawn of a new era for compact utility vehicles. It was Honda’s answer to replacing earlier Kei truck models like the TN360 and T360, and it immediately set a new standard for the small Honda pickup truck.
True to the Kei class, the first-generation Acty boasted a remarkably compact design. Its mid-engine layout was a distinctive feature, housing a 545cc 2-cylinder engine. This water-cooled, single overhead cam (SOHC) engine produced a modest but efficient 28 horsepower and 4.2 kg⋅m of torque. For export models, a slightly more potent version offered 30.6 horsepower, catering to international market demands.
The hallmark of these early Acty trucks was their exceptional fuel economy. This made the 1st generation Acty an incredibly economical choice for businesses and individuals seeking a small Honda pickup truck that was light on fuel consumption and heavy on practicality.
Second Generation Honda Acty Truck (1988 – 1999): Refinement and Farmer Focus
Alt text: Second Generation Honda Acty Truck, showcasing its slightly updated design with a white bumper and speedometer, emphasizing practical improvements and visual distinction.
The second generation Acty Truck, launched in 1988, brought significant advancements under the hood. The introduction of the Honda E05 engine was a game-changer. This upgraded engine featured an additional cylinder, becoming a 3-cylinder, 547cc unit still with a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) configuration. This enhancement provided a boost in performance while maintaining the fuel efficiency that Acty was known for.
A notable shift in this generation was the transmission options for 4-wheel drive models (HA-4). Automatic transmissions were no longer offered for 4WD, focusing on manual transmission to cater to drivers needing robust control in various terrains.
Perhaps the most distinctive addition was the “Acty Attack” model, a special variant specifically tailored for agricultural use. This farmer-focused small Honda pickup truck came equipped with a rear differential lock, significantly improving traction and stability on challenging, uneven terrains – a crucial feature for farm work.
Visually, the second generation Acty Truck offered variations like the TOWN and SDX2 models, featuring color-coded white speedometers and bumpers. These subtle distinctions added a touch of visual flair to the otherwise utilitarian design. These improvements collectively aimed to broaden the Acty Truck’s appeal and utility, making it an even more versatile and efficient commercial JDM vehicle.
Third Generation Honda Acty Truck (1999-2009): Modernizing the Micro-Truck
Alt text: Third Generation Honda Acty Truck, highlighting its more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to previous generations, emphasizing safety improvements and modern aesthetics.
The third generation Honda Acty Truck, debuting in 1999, ushered in a more contemporary and youthful design language. Moving away from the boxier aesthetics of its predecessors, this generation adopted smoother, more aerodynamic lines.
While safety has always been a consideration, the third generation placed a greater emphasis on safety features and enhanced crash protection. This commitment to occupant safety was a significant step forward, offering improved protection compared to earlier models.
Functionality also saw an upgrade with the wider availability of a 4WD option. This greatly increased the Acty Truck’s versatility, enabling it to tackle more challenging driving conditions, a feature not consistently available in the first two generations. Engine power also received a boost with an upgraded 656cc engine producing up to 46 PS (approximately 45 horsepower).
Continuous engine improvements throughout this generation culminated in the adoption of the 660cc in-line 12-valve E07Z gasoline engine. In 4WD models, this engine delivered optimal performance for a wide range of tasks, ensuring that this small Honda pickup truck remained a capable workhorse.
Fourth Generation Honda Acty Truck (2009-2021): Comfort and Capability in a Compact Package
Alt text: Fourth Generation Honda Acty Truck, demonstrating its modern design and practical bed size, emphasizing driver comfort and increased payload capacity within Kei truck regulations.
Launched in 2009, the fourth generation Acty Truck continued the tradition of compact dimensions, perfectly suited for navigating congested urban environments. Despite its small footprint, this generation focused on maximizing payload capacity while still adhering to Kei truck class limitations.
A significant advancement in this generation was the increased emphasis on driver comfort. Improved ergonomics and a more refined cabin design aimed to provide a more comfortable and convenient driving experience, particularly important for those spending long hours behind the wheel.
Across all four generations, the Honda Acty Truck has consistently evolved, adapting to changing needs and incorporating advancements in safety and technology. It remains a reliable and adaptable small Honda pickup truck, proving its enduring appeal for drivers worldwide.
Honda Acty Truck Review: A Closer Look (1988-1999)
To truly appreciate the charm and capability of the small Honda pickup truck, let’s take a closer look at the 1988-1999 Acty Truck – a particularly popular and successful generation.
General Specifications (1988-1999 Honda Acty Truck):
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Honda |
| Model | Acty Truck |
| Body Style | Pickup Truck |
| Production Years | 1988 – 1999 |
| Seating Capacity | 2 seats |
| Length | 3,295 mm |
| Width | 1,395 mm |
| Height | 1,775 mm – 1,795 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,875 mm |
| Wheels | 12-inch |
| Curb Weight | 620 kg – 660 kg (1,366 lbs – 1,455 lbs) |
| Bed Size (L/W) | Length: 1.2m-1.5m (4ft-5ft), Width: 1m-1.2m (3.3ft-4ft) |
| Towing Capacity | 350 kg (772 lbs) |
| Engine Type | 549 cc – 656 cc (3-cylinder) |
| Horsepower | 29 – 39 HP |
| Torque | 39 – 57 Nm |
| Valve Train | SOHC |
| Transmission | 4-5 MT / 3 AT |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 liters (7.9 gallons) |
| Fuel Consumption | 15 – 18 km/L (35 – 47 MPG) |
Exterior & Interior: Practical Simplicity
The exterior design of the 1988-1999 Honda Acty Truck prioritizes practicality and simplicity. Its slim, compact body is designed for easy maneuverability in urban environments and on narrow roads, emphasizing function over elaborate aesthetics.
Inside, the cabin reflects the same focus on functionality and durability. The control panel is straightforward, with essential controls within easy reach. While interior materials aren’t luxurious, they are built to withstand the rigors of daily commercial use, embodying the spirit of a true work-ready small Honda pickup truck.
Engine: Efficient and Reliable
This generation Acty Truck is powered by a small but robust 3-cylinder engine, ranging from 547cc to 656cc. These engines are engineered for efficiency and are perfectly matched to the vehicle’s size and intended use. Power output typically ranges from 29 to 39 horsepower, with torque values between 39 and 57 Nm. While not designed for high-speed performance, these engines provide ample power for their intended applications.
Performance and Driving: Nimble and Convenient
Performance is geared towards practicality and ease of driving. The Acty’s compact size, lightweight construction, and available four-wheel drive make it exceptionally maneuverable and easy to park. It excels in city driving and farm work, where nimble handling and ease of operation are paramount. While not a performance vehicle in the traditional sense, it delivers excellent performance in its niche as a small Honda pickup truck for utility and convenience.
Safety: Basic but Functional for its Era
Safety features in the 1988-1999 Honda Acty Truck are basic by modern standards. They include standard safety elements for the time, such as seat belts and essential lighting (headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights), adhering to safety regulations of that period. Advanced safety technologies like airbags or anti-lock braking systems are not present in this generation. For those seeking more modern safety features, later Acty models (2019, 2020, 2021) would be more suitable.
Price: Affordable Utility
One of the most compelling aspects of the ’90s Acty trucks is their affordability. Both purchase price and maintenance costs are remarkably low. Used Honda Acty models, particularly older ones, can be found at incredibly budget-friendly prices. While newer, used models (2020-2021) can range from $10,000 to $25,000, older models, including the popular 1988-1999 range, can be found for as little as $1,000 to $8,000.
This affordability, even considering potential import duties and fees, makes the small Honda pickup truck an exceptionally accessible option for those needing a practical and reliable utility vehicle. Purchasing directly from Japan can further enhance cost savings.
Final Thoughts: The Enduring Appeal of the Small Honda Pickup Truck
The Honda Acty Truck embodies the enduring appeal of the small Honda pickup truck. It’s a vehicle that has continually evolved, always focusing on providing convenient, lightweight cargo transport. Its blend of practicality, reliability, and compact size makes it an ideal choice for a variety of applications, from urban deliveries to agricultural tasks.
If you’re in the market for a Honda Acty Truck for sale, consider exploring reputable suppliers and online marketplaces like Car From Japan. With its rich history and proven performance, the Honda Acty Truck stands as a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best things really do come in small packages.
