AT THE Auto Focus Pre-Christmas Multibrand Test Drive Festival last weekend, Honda presented its hybrid line-up with the new sporty and efficient Civic and CR-V hybrids for test drive. But the for the practical folk, like me, it is the practicality of the Honda BR-V V that makes the deal.
This middle child of the BR-V lineup offers the perfect blend of style, practicality, and affordability, making it the ideal choice for young families and those looking for a reliable and versatile MPV without breaking the bank. Let me dive into why this understated trim level might just be the hidden gem.
Positioned between the entry-level S and the top-spec VX, the V trim aims to strike a balance between affordability and desirability. This review will dive into the design, features, driving dynamics, and overall performance of the Honda BR-V V variant to assess its standing in the competitive seven-seater MPV segment.
The Honda BR-V V variant presents a modern and sleek design that closely mirrors its higher-end sibling, the VX trim. The updated styling includes refined lines and a bolder front fascia, giving it a contemporary look that aligns with Honda’s current design language. It sports LED headlamps, fog lights, and LED daytime running lights (DRLs), enhancing visibility and adding a premium touch.
Ground clearance stands at 207mm, making it suitable for tackling uneven city roads and light off-road trails. The 17-inch alloy wheels provide a robust stance, contributing to its SUV-like aesthetic. While the exterior is mostly praiseworthy, the chrome accents might not appeal to everyone. Nevertheless, they do add a sense of sophistication that many buyers in this segment seek.
Inside, you are greeted by a cabin that prioritizes practicality over luxury. The interior features a leatherette finish, but the upholstery is noticeably firmer than expected. While the seat bolsters are padded, the main seat surfaces are stiffer, which may detract from overall comfort during long drives. The dashboard predominantly consists of hard plastics, with limited use of soft-touch materials. Despite this, the layout is user-friendly, with essential controls easily accessible.
In terms of space, this MPV excels in the front and middle rows, offering ample legroom and headroom. The second-row seats are adjustable, allowing them to slide forward to create more space for the third-row occupants. However, as with many vehicles in this category, the third row remains tight, best suited for children or shorter passengers.
Cargo space is also a mixed bag; while the third-row folds to increase storage, it does not fold completely flat, resulting in a slight lip in the cargo area. This design choice limits the overall versatility compared to some competitors. With the third row folded, this V-spec BR-V offers 530 liters of cargo capacity, expandable to 1,032 liters when the second row is also folded down.
Front and under, it is equipped with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a balanced ride, effectively absorbing minor road imperfections. The suspension tuning leans towards comfort, which is expected for a vehicle in this segment. While it handles city potholes and speed bumps competently, the ride quality could be described as slightly firm rather than plush. There is a perceptible thud over larger bumps, but it does not compromise the overall stability or safety of the vehicle.
The steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in urban settings. However, it lacks the directness and feedback found in some of Honda’s more premium models like the Civic or HR-V. The electronic power steering system is precise enough for everyday driving but does not offer a sporty feel, which may be a letdown for those seeking more engaging dynamics.
Under the hood, the BR-V V variant features a 1.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine, producing 119 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), a common choice in Honda’s lineup for its smooth and efficient performance. The engine delivers adequate power for city driving, and it remains responsive even with a full load of passengers and cargo. The CVT is well-tuned, providing a seamless driving experience without the typical slingshot feeling often associated with this type of transmission.
On the highway, the BR-V maintains its composure but does show signs of strain during rapid acceleration, especially when fully loaded. Despite this, it holds its own in overtaking maneuvers, thanks to the engine’s willingness to rev higher. Fuel efficiency is commendable, with the BR-V achieving 10 km/L in urban traffic and up to 18 km/L on open highways. A mixed driving cycle yields around 14.3 km/L, making it a cost-effective choice for families.
The 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring connectivity and entertainment on the go. The display is crisp, and the interface is responsive, a notable improvement over previous generations. The gauge cluster includes a 4.2-inch multi-information display, flanked by analog dials, providing clear and concise vehicle information.
Keyless entry, push-button start, and a reverse camera are standard on the V trim. Nevertheless, the tech package should satisfy the needs of most buyers in this segment. Safety is a priority for Honda, and the BR-V V comes equipped with essential features like dual airbags, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, vehicle stability assist, hill start assist, and ISOFIX anchors for child seats.
The Honda BR-V V variant presents a well-rounded package for buyers seeking a practical, stylish, and reliable seven-seater MPV especially given the price point of P1.295M.
