Tuning company Mugen has introduced an updated accessory kit for the Honda Vezel RS crossover, which recently underwent a facelift. This upgrade package includes aerodynamic elements, new wheels, and an exhaust system, but does not involve increasing the power of the standard hybrid powertrain.
Updated Design and Exterior
The new kit from Mugen is an evolution of the package offered for the previous version of the Vezel. The main visual difference is that all add-on elements are now painted in the body color, instead of the former glossy black, giving the car a more integrated and production-like appearance.
Exterior updates include a more pronounced front spoiler, deeper side skirts, and a modified rear bumper with an integrated diffuser. For added expressiveness, customers can order additional aerodynamic parts: rear spoiler extensions, a trunk lid spoiler, a larger rear wing, and mirror covers. The exterior look is completed with branded Mugen stickers.
Key Tuning Elements
One of the central elements of the update is a stainless steel sports muffler system with dual titanium tips, offering a more aggressive exhaust sound. Furthermore, buyers are offered a choice of two 18-inch alloy wheel designs.
Interior updates are more restrained: these are custom floor and trunk mats, branded scuff plates, and window visors.
Suspension and Brakes
Mugen engineers collaborated with Yamaha to install so-called Performance Dampers on the car—special dampers designed to simultaneously improve ride comfort and handling stability. The performance of the braking system was also improved by installing more wear-resistant Type S brake pads, which are better suited for spirited driving.
No Changes Under the Hood
The hybrid powertrain remained virtually unchanged. Mugen limited itself to installing a high-flow air filter and recommending its own brand of engine oil. The e:HEV hybrid system equipped in the Vezel RS still delivers a combined 129 horsepower and 253 Nm of torque. The car is available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
Cost of Upgrades
Outfitting the Vezel RS with Mugen parts turns out to be quite an expensive affair. The set of exterior parts alone costs 684,200 yen (about $4,400). The alloy wheels add another 198,000 or 242,000 yen to the price depending on the chosen design. Interior accessories are priced at 111,100 yen.
Furthermore, the Performance Dampers cost 143,000 yen, the brake pads—55,000 yen, the air filter—20,900 yen, and the dual stainless steel exhaust system—187,000 yen.
In total, a fully equipped car will cost the buyer approximately 1,444,000 yen (about $9,300). This is a significant markup, considering that the base price of the Honda Vezel RS in Japan starts from 3,748,800 yen.
This Mugen project clearly demonstrates the brand’s philosophy, focused on improving aesthetics and handling refinement, rather than raw power. For a market where appearance and brand prestige are often as important as technical specifications, such an approach is entirely justified. The cost of the full package, which amounts to almost a quarter of the price of a new car, underscores the product’s positioning as an exclusive accessory for true brand enthusiasts, for whom details and individuality are important.