WHEN Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) brought in the all-new BR-V, the purpose was to introduce an affordable sport-utility vehicle (SUV) in the country. The Japanese automaker perceived the market’s preference is shifting toward SUVs. So, from there, Honda saw an opportunity to go where no one has gone before—build the unique seven-seater subcompact SUV. And with a starting price just below P1 million, it is indeed reasonable.
The name BR-V stands for “Bold Runabout Vehicle” and was derived among the manufacturer’s SUV lineup. While it was based on the Mobilio platform, the overall dimension is bigger, with a higher ground clearance of 201mm—giving it a more subcompact SUV-like characteristics. “The All-New BR-V has exclusive components designed for SUVs, such as revised suspension geometry, enhanced body rigidity, heightened air intake duct position, large tire size, and functional roof rails,” chief engineer Atsushi Arisaka explained.
Honda utilized the same Euro 4-compliant 1.5-liter SOHC i-VTEC gasoline engine found in its B-segment vehicles, delivering 118 horsepower and 145 N-m of maximum torque. It is coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Earth Dreams Technology. Arisaka simply pointed out they considered it as the best engine for the body size and production cost.
In order to try out Honda’s new offering, HCPI flew in a group of motoring journalists in Cauayan, Isabela, for a demanding two-day, 490-kilometer adventure drive. By the time we arrived, a total of six BR-Vs in different versions (1.5 S and V standard and Modulo variants) were already lined up. What’s prominent in the front end is the pronounced chrome grille along with the fresh projector-type headlamps. Sharp delineations are all over the frame with surrounding black trims underneath the panels, which complement the 16-inch alloy wheels in 195/60 series rubbers. While those front and rear metallic bumper garnish is solely for the 1.5 V Navi edition, the Modulo kits can make the base model equally stunning. In addition, the functional roof rail enhances the boldness and tough exterior package.
Boarded the top spec edition, a familiar dashboard layout from other models is quite evident. The center panel, where the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment is embedded will remind you of the City. As well as the instrument panel and the position of the aircon vents. And you’ll definitely feel that snug seating posture from a sedan once settled. Although the lack of a seat-level adjuster would somehow give shorter drivers a bit of a challenge. But the main highlight is the surprisingly expansive dark motif cabin. Those leather-wrapped seats definitely offers that premium feel, while cup holders are pretty much all over the place. With the 50:50 third-row seats folded, the backend area transformed into a voluminous cargo bay.
After a quick lunchbreak and product presentation, the entire convoy went ahead and commenced the journey. One notable element is the reclining, sliding and 60:40 split second-row benches. It provides an absolute suitability for comfort and rear legroom all the way to the last row. What is more, the ceiling-mounted aircon vents aided in cooling the passenger’s area. On the highway, the level of comfort was totally expedient—not bad at all for a torsion-beam rear suspension. There were only minimal tire rebounds on random road imperfections. Even during initial zigzags, you’d still lean securely.
Behind the wheel, acceleration was smooth to reach cruising speeds. Gear shifting was evidently seamless, except when on sport mode, which keeps the motor on higher revs. The paddle shifters came in handy during engine braking on curves way in and supported the need for more torque before upshifting on ascents. But throughout the climbs and extreme turns, there was a need to really push the mill from low gears to squeeze out more power. In an objective standpoint, hauling a bigger frame, four occupants onboard and sizable suitcases, plus the punishing road terrain, you’d find the power delivery fairly apt for the vehicle’s purpose. Well, the powertrain may not be as potent as a turbocharged or bigger displacement motors, but it does the job convincingly.
Meanwhile, handling is perhaps one of BR-V’s strongpoints. There was enough steering feedback for you to completely manage every tight entry. Body rolls were very minimal and with the vehicle stability assist feature, the car maintains a great form even in impulsive braking. You can only hear the new tires working really hard to maintain traction and control. Momentarily, we reached our destination in Baler, Aurora, at sundown. The next morning, we resumed our drive on a different route. There were less twisties but more descents toward the plains of Cabanatuan crowded with slow-moving vehicles. To overtake, the need to push the engine to a higher rev was needed. But, finally, reaching the entire freeway stretch was where everything else became blissful until we all made it back to the Metro safe and sound.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino