Introduced locally in 2016, the first-generation BR-V sold itself as spacious and comfortable at a competitive price, with the styling decidedly MPV-like. For the newcomer, this has morphed into true SUV looks with a body length of 35 mm and 45 mm width – offering more space for occupants in all three rows.
Completely redesigned front
The BR-V has a completely redesigned front end, with the most prominent features being an aggressive and sporty new grille and newly designed LED daytime running lights and headlamps. The rear end also sports a LED rear taillight cluster.
Inside, fabric seats are standard on all but the Elegance model, which has synthetic leather upholstery and additional trim finishes.
The rearmost seats have a 50/50 split and the second row a 60/40 split, allowing for various seating and cargo configurations. With all seats in position, seven occupants can be seated comfortably while providing a very usable amount of luggage space.
Occupant comfort is bolstered through the addition of power outlets in all three rows in the Elegance derivative. There is air-conditioning for rear-seat passengers. The driver seat is adjustable for height and also benefits from a 4,2-inch TFT display on the dashboard, which provides information on features such as active Honda SENSING functions.
Upgraded infotainment system
The infotainment has also been upgraded for the second generation and the standard on all models is a 7-inch touch screen system with integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Comfort and Elegance models gain an integrated reverse parking camera for added convenience.
The chassis system and body of the BR-V have also been re-engineered, with significant enhancements to the suspension, braking, steering and body construction resulting in improved handling and stability.
The ratio of higher tensile strength steel used on the new model has increased by 24%, resulting in reduced weight, improved safety performance and greater body rigidity. Significant improvements have also been made to the NVH performance to minimise engine and road noise intrusion.
The BR-V features Honda’s latest 1,5-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine with a maximum power output of 89 kW at 6 600 r/min and peak torque of 145 Nm at 4 300 r/min.
The Trend model is available only with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the Comfort has the option of either a six-speed manual or a CVT, which has been specifically tuned for the BR-V. The Elegance is available exclusively with the CVT.
Honda claims 6,8 l/100 km for manual derivatives, while CVT models (Comfort and Elegance) return consumption figures of 6,3 l/100 km.
Foldable rear seats for cargo space
The entire BR-V range has Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), anti-lock braking and ISOFIX child seat anchors. Dual front and side crash bags are standard across the range, with the Comfort and Elegance models gaining curtain bags as well.
Honda SENSING, available only on the Elegance, includes:
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
• Auto High-Beam (AHB)
• Lane Watch Camera (LWC)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Pricing:
1.5 Trend MT: R379 900
1.5L Comfort MT: R409 900
1.5L Comfort CVT: R434 900
1.5L Elegance CVT: R459 900
All models come standard with a 5-year 200 000 km warranty. The Comfort and Elegance variants include a 4-year/ 60 000 km service plan. Also included is 3-year AA roadside assistance.
