The First Gen. Hokuto Excella (1989 – 1995)
This new formatting stuff is complicated.
The Excella was a new model introduced in February 1988 and launched in late 1988 for the 1989 model year. Development began in 1984 under the same wing as the next generation Levara, with the design phase concluding in 1987 with internal approval of the final design. Design patents were filed in February 1987. Built in the same plant as the Levara, the Excella was based on a stretched Levara platform featuring a 2.5L CR25E V6 engine making 148 hp and 155 lb⋅ft (210 N⋅m) of torque.
On the exterior, the Excella shared similar Hokuto styling and as its stablemates, but had a more prominent grille, bigger tail lights, chrome trim, frameless windows, and distinct wheel design, along with the unique slight wheel skirt along the back. The logic behind this was to make the car look bigger and roomier than it really was, to target their customers’ age group, and go after Cadillac.
Inside the cabin, the Excella featured a six-speaker Pioneer sound system, genuine wood trim, one-touch power windows, and leather seats. It also could be optioned with keyless entry, a handy feature for the old people customer base. A four-speed automatic transmission was the only one offered.
A new suspension setup was designed, with front independent MacPherson strut, and double wishbone rear, helping to ensure not only a smooth ride, but a surprisingly lively chassis. Unfortunately, it also had some added weight compared to the Levara, amounting to nearly 300 lb. Much of this is due to increased dimensions, asphalt insulation in the body panels and additional on-board equipment. As with its siblings, anti-lock brakes were standard.