In this ever-changing world, we need to keep up with how fast things change around us. To this end, Honda keeps building new vehicles to keep up with the unique needs of its clients
The latest of Honda’s new vehicles to hit our shores is the all-new BR-V. The vehicle is part of Honda’s RV range, which means that it has a somewhat of an elevated ride height but is not quite a rough-and-tough off-roader. That being said, this is the smallest of the RV range and yet the only one that caters for up to seven passengers.
From the front end, this vehicle is in line with Honda’s new sportier look. The rather smart-looking front end incorporates a large chrome grill which carries the Honda badge proudly front and centre. The headlights seem to have been chiselled out from the ends of the grill. The front bumper fits snugly below the lights and has a black mesh that is split by the space for the number plate. This makes the vehicle look higher than it actually is. The side wheel arches are bordered with black plastic surrounds adding a touch of ruggedness to the look. The front door has an angled crease running from the front wheel towards the bottom of the window of the rear door. This is meant to make the side look shorter as the rear door is longer to allow for easy access to the third row of seats. The rear end is more controversial and you either like it or hate it. The lights have red surrounds and the two lights are linked with a stretched top section. The large rear windscreen and roof rails complete the RV look on the vehicle. The test vehicle had sport black and chrome mag wheels but I thought the wheels were too small for the wheel arches.
Inside you are welcomed by leather seats all round, a sporty steering wheel and a short, shift stubby gearshift. This gives one the feeling of a sitting in a sports vehicle. The dashboard is simple with just three dials: the main dial has the speed and, to the left, the tachometer, and on the right, you’ll find the fuel and temperature gauge as well as a small monochrome LCD screen that houses other information like mileage and fuel consumption. The dashboard shape with its squared-off edges and rectangular air vents is in keeping with the RV look. The drop-down centre console houses the entertainment system and climate control. The vehicle comes standard with Bluetooth radio and USB input. The rear space is good and at the pull of a lever the rear seat folds forward to reveal access to the third row of seats. This row can seat adults but be prepared to keep your knees close to your chest, so keep it for the kids instead. Boot space with all seven seats in place is not bad and can still swallow a cricket bag. Fold the third row of seats forward and the space trebles, making the boot big enough to carry all the extramural bags.
On the road the vehicle is fairly responsive, although the short-shift gearbox takes some getting used to. The driving position is slightly elevated making for good forward visibility. The same cannot be said for rear visibility, though, as you will find out very quickly when you’re trying to park the vehicle. The rear D-pillars are just too thick and therefore cause an obstruction when you try to look behind the vehicle. Road holding is decent for this type of vehicle and the steering response is in keeping with Honda’s racing heritage.
On the whole, this is the type of vehicle that will suit the family-oriented person who does not need or want the excess power to launch past the driver next to him.
The BR-V is practical, light on fuel and easy to drive, and my biggest gripe is the lack of rear park distance.
So the BR-V is almost the perfect city people carrier.
Engine – 1,4 l 4 Cylinder Turbo
Power – 110 kW
Torque – 220 Nm
0–100 km/H – 8,5 Seconds
Price – From R330 000
Author: Torque Talk is a member of SAGMJ