Sony and Honda’s electric car partnership, known as Afeela, made another unexpected appearance at CES this year. After introducing the Afeela 1 sedan, the brand returned with a brief but intriguing reveal: a new SUV prototype planned for 2026. The vehicle appeared on stage only momentarily, catching the audience off guard and leaving many details under wraps.
Visually, the Afeela Prototype 2026 closely resembles the sedan. It features a smooth, minimalist design with few sharp lines and a coupe-like roofline that slopes toward the rear. Some may appreciate its clean and understated look, while others might find it lacking personality. The design feels very Honda-inspired, prioritizing simplicity and function over bold styling — a safe approach in a crowded EV market, but one that may struggle to stand out.
During the presentation in Las Vegas, Afeela CEO Yasuhide Mizuno shared only one key detail: the SUV offers more interior space than the Afeela 1 sedan. That added room makes it more appealing to families and aligns with the company’s strong focus on the U.S. market, where SUV demand continues to dominate.
Sony’s influence is most obvious inside the cabin. Although official interior photos were limited, the prototype features a full-width dashboard screen, rear passenger displays, and even a built-in PlayStation 5. The goal is clear — transform the car into a mobile entertainment center. While impressive, it also raises questions about how much screen time drivers and passengers really want on the road.
Mechanically, the SUV is expected to mirror the sedan. That means dual electric motors, all-wheel drive, and a combined output of 298 kW (around 400 hp). Power comes from a 91 kWh battery, delivering an estimated 480 km of range. Fast charging tops out at 150 kW, and the vehicle uses Tesla’s NACS charging connector. These figures are solid, though not groundbreaking by today’s EV standards.
Technology and safety remain core pillars of the Afeela brand. The SUV is packed with 40 sensors, including 18 cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, nine mmWave radars, and a LiDAR unit. This setup enables full 360-degree awareness and prepares the vehicle for Level 3 autonomous driving, though such advanced hardware will likely push costs even higher.
Price will be a major challenge. The Afeela 1 sedan starts at $89,900, climbing past $102,900 in top trim. Given its size and positioning, the upcoming SUV will likely cost even more, placing it firmly in the premium EV segment alongside brands like Lucid.
With its mix of high-end tech, understated design, and strong entertainment focus, the Afeela Prototype 2026 shows where Sony and Honda believe the future of electric vehicles is heading — even if it remains a bold and expensive bet.