Recently the Autodealer team got the keys to the Honda BR-V and I set out to see what the little MPV has to offer.
Exterior
Generally, MPVs is not typically the most interesting when it comes to styling, that being said, the BR-V does stand out from the crowd with the 16-inch alloy wheels, larger fog-lights and edgy lines down the side of the vehicle. Although it is only 1,666mm tall, the overall design of the vehicle does align itself more towards that of an SUV than an MPV, even while measuring in at 4,456mm long, a plus in my books.
Interior
Although you will find a more premium interior in terms of materials used around the cabin in other Honda models, the BR-V did impress with its leather seats and leather-trimmed steering wheel. The test model also featured an engine ‘start/stop’ button and keyless entry. The four-speaker sound system can draw on music from a USB port and comes fitted with Bluetooth. The main drawing card on the interior was the amount of space offered to its occupants. While the dimensions of the vehicle make it seem as though it is compact, the third row of seats does allow for seven occupants and should you fold the seats flat, offers an impressive 691-litres of luggage capacity.
The drive
When commuting around town the BR-V is in its element, the steering is feather-light and the CVT gearbox effectively uses the 88 kW and 145 N.m of torque produced by the 1.5-litre petrol motor. The MPV returned a respectable fuel consumption figure of 6.2L/100km.
Verdict
The ride comfort was predictably good with little road noise or even a hum from the CVT gearbox although when you need to overtake it does take some time for the small motor to get up to speed. The BR-V still faces strong competition from the likes of Suzuki and Toyota but where the competition might offer slightly cheaper options; the BR-V maintains a good level of interior niceties for its price.
Warranty
The BR-V comes standard with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty. Comfort and Elegance models benefit from a 2-year/30 000 km service plan.
Price
Honda BR-V 1.5 Elegance auto – R 324 800
