Honda will begin offering taller, roomier mini-type station wagons and sports-utility vehicles in October. Another station wagons model is expected to be added next spring, company sources said. Honda also plans to market a new commercial model next year, while continuing to produce its life nameplate.

To increase production, Honda will start manufacturing the small vehicles at its own plants - it previously consigned such output to affiliate Yachiyo Industry Co (7298).

The Japanese government will ease restrictions on the maximum length and width of minicars in October, but maintain the upper limit on engine displacement at 660 cubic centimeters. Honda sold about 800,000 vehicles in Japan last year, 210,000 of which were minis.