These Honda Minivans Appear To Have Come Right From An ’80s American Suburban Driveway | Carscoops

      Honda's minivans recently received retro kits that give them a 1980s-inspired appearance without modifying any mechanical components.

      DAMD has introduced retro kits for the Honda Freed and Stepwgn minivans, featuring a reverse restomod aesthetic that includes vintage-style lights, grilles, and bumpers. Additional options consist of chrome wheels, roof racks, and wood accents.

      Update: After the reveal of the Freed-based Isolator, DAMD has launched another Honda-themed kit for the Tokyo Auto Salon, this time based on the Stepwgn, named the Resonator. This new kit also draws from classic American vans. Detailed information can be found below.

      Face-swapping kits have become quite popular in Japan's tuning community, giving regular JDM models an intriguing twist. DAMD has applied this reverse restomod style to the Honda Freed and Stepwgn, creating squared-off faces reminiscent of the bulky American minivans from the 1980s.

      The kit based on the Freed, called the Isolator, is already available for purchase. While the primary focus of the transformation is on the front, the overall effect is striking enough to make the original Honda Freed nearly unrecognizable.

      If you take a close look, you might see echoes of the original Chevrolet Astro or its GMC Safari van counterparts from 1985. The Freed now features new headlights, which can be upgraded with optional LED bulbs, set within a blocky black grille that enhances depth and visual interest. Beneath it lies a retro-style bumper with slim cooling intakes and a prominent chin. To complete the transformation, a flat, custom hood cover adds to the solid front profile.

      Interestingly, DAMD has achieved this new look without altering the front fenders or the original body structure. The old headlight cutouts are concealed with color-matched inserts, which can also be covered with optional wood-like decals that enhance the retro feel. The rear section maintains its boxy and upright design, consistent with Honda's original styling.

      The Isolator kit works with both the standard Freed Air and the slightly more rugged Freed Crosstar, which features additional body cladding. For those wanting the complete look, DAMD provides a roof rack and larger tires for the Crosstar. A set of new 15-inch steel wheels has also been designed to complement the utilitarian look.

      Mechanically, there are no changes; the Freed's e:HEV self-charging hybrid system continues to pair a 1.5-liter petrol engine with two electric motors, available in either front- or all-wheel-drive configurations. It's worth noting that the Isolator kit is not compatible with the gasoline-only variant of the Freed.

      The DAMD Isolator will be showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon, but the upgrades can already be ordered online or through authorized dealerships in Japan. The unpainted kit starts at ¥327,800 (approximately $2,100 at current exchange rates). Available options include an LED upgrade for ¥29,700 ($190), a basket-style roof rack for ¥64,900 ($420), wood-style decals for ¥63,800 ($410), and a black bumper sticker for ¥6,380 ($40). The 15-inch wheels and tire packages are expected to be released in 2026 and can be paired with Blitz Damper ZZ-R coilovers.

      Need a Larger Minivan? Check Out the Resonator

      DAMD is primarily known for its small vehicle modifications, but some long-time customers have families and are seeking more space. In response, the tuner has revamped the Honda Stepwgn, rebranding it as the Resonator.

      Similar to the Isolator, the Resonator's design is inspired by classic American vans. The updated front features quad halogen headlights (with LED options expected in the future), separate turn indicators, a significantly larger grille, a flatter hood cover, and a protruding bumper made of unpainted plastic.

      While the rest of the body remains unchanged, the Stepwgn's appliance-like surfaces and Cadillac-style vertical taillights complement the new retro front. To further enhance the vintage appeal, DAMD will provide woodgrain decals and black stickers that mimic side moldings. Optional features include the chrome wheels shown and amber-colored position lights on the roof.

      The installation of the kit doesn’t require any cutting or modifications and retains the original Honda emblem and ADAS sensors. Mechanically, everything remains the same, allowing the minivan to be equipped with either a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine or a 2.0-liter e:HEV hybrid powertrain, both driving the front wheels.

      The Resonator kit is expected to launch in spring 2026, with pricing details to be announced later. A demonstration vehicle will be featured at the Tokyo Auto Salon, and an official video will provide a closer look.