At the ongoing Malaysia Autoshow 2016, Honda Malaysia has brought out two unreleased models, namely the Honda BR-V and Honda Jazz Hybrid.
First up is the Honda BR-V. This model is no stranger to us, as we previewed the all-new model in Japan roughly a year ago. For the uninitiated, the Honda BR-V is based on the Honda Mobilio platform, which is turn is based on the smaller Honda Brio. To the average Malaysian, the Brio and Mobilio nameplate may appear to be relatively unknown, but these two models are rather successful in Thailand and Indonesia, due to their low selling price.
What makes the Honda BR-V unique is the exterior design. Whilst Honda markets the BR-V as a MPV, the black body cladding gives the BR-V an SUV-like appeal. That, coupled with the roof-rails and tall-ish ride height certainly sets the BR-V apart from its closest rival, the Toyota Sienta. Despite its SUV-like appearance, the Honda BR-V is rather similar to the Sienta, as both cars can seat up to seven passengers and are powered by a 1.5-litre engine.
As mentioned earlier, the Honda BR-V is powered by the company’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine that outputs 120 PS and 145 Nm, mated to an Earth Dreams Technology CVT. Elsewhere, the Honda BR-V can be had with a diesel engine paired to a manual transmission, though we don’t expect that to arrive here anytime soon. Honda says that the BR-V’s power output is the highest in its class.
On top of that, space is also the Honda BR-V’s selling point. Even with its third row seats folded up, the BR-V boasts 223 litres of boot space. Fold the third row seats and the boot space increases to 539 litres. Convenience is also worth a mention, as the BR-V features second row seats one touch tild & tumble in a 60:40 split folding config while the third row seats comes in a 50:50 split folding config. For comfort, the Honda BR-V is available with leather seats and rear air-conditioning vents.
Other highlights include projector headlights with daytime running lights (DRLs), 16-inch alloy wheels and a rear view camera. The BR-V on display also shed some not mentioned details, like keyless entry (likely with push start button), side mirrors with integrated turn signals and chrome door handles.
Prices are unknown as yet, though we can expect the Honda BR-V to be priced below the magical RM100,000 mark. Stay tuned for more updates!
