Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2018 Honda Clarity
The 2018 Honda Clarity is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 7.8/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.7/10, while Performance at 6.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability stands out at 8.7/10. The Clarity nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety lands at 7.8/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.6/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. At 7.8/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $27,338–$31,998, 42 MPG, seating 5, the Honda Clarity sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. Its value score of 8.1/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2018 Honda Clarity will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on performance if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good sedan should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2018 Honda Clarity ranks #347 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 74% of the segment. Its 7.8/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $27,338 starting price sits close to the segment's median of $27,664.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Clarity Year Should You Buy?
Across the Clarity model years we've scored, the 2018 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Exceptional fuel efficiency at 42 MPG — among the best in its class
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2018 Honda Clarity
Is the 2018 Honda Clarity reliable?
We rate the 2018 Honda Clarity's reliability 8.7/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2018 Honda Clarity worth buying?
It scores 7.8/10 overall, ranking #347 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 74% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2018 Honda Clarity cost?
The 2018 Honda Clarity starts at $27,338 and ranges up to $31,998 across trims (MSRP when new). At 42 MPG, expect roughly $1,250/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Clarity years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 4 Clarity model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.9/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Honda Clarity
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More Honda Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Honda models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year