Honda BR-V: Good buy or goodbye?

In the recently concluded 8th Philippine International Motor Show, Honda Cars Philippines treated exhibit guests to a preview of the all-new BR-V, which, they say, will be launched locally soon. Yet, with the ongoing semiconductor supply issue, Honda is still unable to give a definite answer as to when.

Meanwhile, your money’s buying power gets weaker by the day, and your need for a more spacious family vehicle becomes more urgent, as the kids will be attending face-to-face classes soon…and they have grown quite big in the past couple of years.

Well, the current Honda BR-V is available here and now. Let’s check it out, shall we?

The Honda BR-V exterior

At first glance, the S variant of the BR-V looks like a cross between the CR-V and the Mobilio, having a wider rear and a tapered front. It appears longer than it is from the side, looking more like a minivan than an SUV. It would also seem that way in terms of accessibility to all family members. The relatively low seats make it easier for small children or the elderly to get on, while it only requires a lever pull to fold and tumble the second-row seat to gain access to the third row.

What's inside the Honda BR-V?

The space behind the wheel is comfortable enough. The driver’s seat offers good lumbar support, but I found the low seat lacked thigh support for drivers with longer legs. A seat height adjustment might have helped. There is a 7” inch display for audio entertainment, but the V variant might be a more suitable option if your passengers require better distraction while stuck in traffic.

Is the Honda BR-V fuel efficient?

The Honda BR-V 1.5 S CVT is propelled by a 1,497cc, SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine, which produces 120 PS at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm at 4,600 rpm. It is mated to Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for optimum performance and fuel efficiency. The engine felt very responsive at the bottom end, though power delivery becomes a bit mellow past mid-range. Based on the fuel economy run conducted by the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), the Honda BR-V can achieve 22.58 kilometers to a liter. Subjecting it mostly to horrible traffic in Cainta yielded an average of 9.9 kilometers per liter. I’d say not bad. Good job, Earth Dreams CVT!

How easy is the Honda BR-V to drive?

The BR-V, despite its size, handles like a hatch, but one must be mindful of its dimensions when traversing narrow streets. The ride is firm yet comfortable enough to allow my passengers to doze off during trips. Speaking of which, you can take trips with the whole family and still have enough luggage space at the back. Some 7-seaters will compel you to ditch your 3rd-row occupants if you want cargo space. The BR-V, however, still has 223 liters of capacity, even with all seats occupied. With only five occupants, you can fold the seats at the back to get 521 liters of cargo space.

At Php 1,058,000, you already get dual airbags, ABS with electronic brake force distribution, and a reverse camera. While the current BR-V might be an outgoing model, its features remain up to date compared to other 7-seaters in its price point. You get the character of an SUV and the versatility of an MPV.

Honda BR-V buyers will also be treated to low-cost after-sales services. To save up, owners will only be required to have their unit undergo two Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) visits a year. Honda Cars Philippines is offering good deals this October to celebrate its 32nd anniversary. This includes discounts on units and select accessories.

It seems good things also come to those who don’t wait. Delayed gratification is overrated, don’t you think?