Honda BR-V Ready to Obliterate Competition at 2016 MIAS

MANILA: After making its debut presence in Asia Pacific last august at the GIIAS, Thailand becomes the newest country to welcome the latest Honda BR-V at the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show. The Thai launch for Honda’s latest crossover was also accompanied with an additional Modulo body kit that makes the new vehicle look even more sporty and stylish. The new BR-V is based on the same platform as the smaller sized Honda Brio. Just like the high selling city car, the BR-V crossover also presents a magically crafted interior space, which is large enough to seat 7 occupants despite the facade of its compact exteriors.

What’s New with the 2016 BR-V?

The latest changes on the new 2016 BR-V is offered in the Indonesian and Thai markets with a choice of two 1.5-litre engines and 5-speed manual gearbox or CVT gearbox come optional on both. The petrol mill is a 1.5-litre I-VTEC engine that generates around 117 horsepower, while the 1.5-litre I-DTEC engine produces an output of approximately 99 horsepower. The new version also brings several notable changes to the vehicle’s exterior with a stylish looking chrome grille that seamlessly encompass the sleek headlamps that are powered by daytime running LED lights. The foglamp housing is also made more stylish with chrome accents and honeycomb mesh design. The roof rails have also been changed from the older model along with a brand new rear design with taillight clusters that join through a lighted strip that runs along the center of the rear hatch.

What We Don’t Know

There is a minor difference in the steering wheel for the Thai and Indonesian releases. While the Indonesian BR-V retains the standard multi-function steering wheel, the Thai bound model featured a totally new design for the steering wheel that is only seen on premium Honda models and is also bound to arrive in India. What will be launched for the Philippine market is still shrouded in mystery and will only be revealed at the Manila International Auto Show next month.

Honda has always tried to remain on top of their competition whether it’s a sedan like the new Civic or a compact city car like the Brio. Being a totally different model that doesn’t fit well in most segments, the newest Honda BR-V will certainly create a new market demand for smaller sized SUV. With its only close competitor being the Ford Ecosport, it certainly won’t be surprising if the new BR-V tops the crossover sales this year and become the best in class.

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