Honda BR-V review, test drive

    We get our hands on Honda's new BR-V and see if it has what it takes to outdo its rivals.

    Published on Oct 27, 2015 05:12:00 PM

    70,855 Views

    Make : Honda
    Model : BR-V

    What is it?

    The BR-V is Honda’s new India-bound small SUV and a model that will take on the Hyundai Creta, Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano and Maruti S-Cross when it goes on sale in early 2016. It’s built on the same platform as the Brio, Amaze and Mobilio but you won’t see the semblance at first glance. The BR-V has a more upright stance and a completely different front end that actually looks quite interesting for its squared-out bonnet, angular headlamps and chrome-rich two-part grille. The bumper is unique too and features a scuff plate low down to lend the BR-V that SUV look. Roof rails, and plastic cladding on the lower portion of the bumpers, wheel arches and doors are some other SUV-typical details you’ll find on the BR-V. Stylish 16-inch rims further add glamour to the Honda, although you’ll agree they do look a size small given the SUV’s large body. While final spec for India hasn’t been decided, it seem unlikely the BR-V headed our way will get larger wheels.

    See the BR-V in profile and you’ll rightly think of it as the largest of the small SUVs. Its 4,456mm length makes it significantly longer than the 4,270mm long Creta for instance. The 2,660mm wheelbase is also best-in-class but a lot of the overall length also comes from the long rear overhang. The advantage is that this has allowed Honda to fit in a third row of seats, something which will make the BR-V the only seven-seater in its segment. On the flip side, the extended rear gives the BR-V a somewhat MPV-like look from the side. That the rear doors seem straight from a Mobilio only strengthen this impression. The kinked rear window and relatively large rear quarter glass are neatly executed though.   

    As for styling at the tail, it's attractive if a touch on the flamboyant side. Things like the solid chrome shroud for the number plate mount or the reflector that runs the width of the tail to link the smart tail-lamps seem overdone to our eyes. In fact, the tail scores for practical reasons rather than for pure aesthetics; the large rear windscreen offers good visibility and the tail gate extends low down which makes loading and unloading luggage easy. What’s also nice is that even with all seats up, there’s a decent amount of luggage room in the BR-V. The rearmost seat can also be folded forward to make more space. 

    Honda Cars

    Copyright (c) Autocar India. All rights reserved.

    Comments
    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now
    Search By Car Price
    Poll of the month

    What do you think of the Jaguar rebrand?

    It's too radical and ignores the brand's legacy

     

    57.69%

    It's exactly what's needed to revive a dying brand

     

    10.49%

    It's fine as long as the products are good

     

    31.82%

    Total Votes : 572
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe