Where families are concerned, travelling with the right vehicle is important as it should provide comfort for the outstation drive and space for passengers and luggage. Good looks is not as important but it does give off a sense of satisfaction that one is driving a stylish vehicle.
The Honda BR-V ticks all the above boxes and it was indeed a functional and comfortable ride for me and my passengers (my wife and parents) when I drove it back to my mother’s kampung in Pekan, Pahang for Hari Raya.
The BR-V is offered in two variants - E and V - and standard equipment includes rear air-conditioning vents, electric power steering, 195/60 R16 tyres, halogen projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, roof rails, 11 cup holders, and a four-speaker audio system with USB, Bluetooth and hands-free features.
Standard safety features include two airbags, vehicle stability assist (VSA), hill start assist (HSA), anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD) and ISOFIX points for child car seats.
For the drive to Pekan, we travelled with the top-specced V variant which features front fog lights, chrome outer door handles, electrical tailgate lock, smart entry with engine push-start button, audio controls on the steering wheel, automatic air-conditioning, leather upholstery, and a 6.1-inch display screen with HDMI port, and rear view camera.
This seven-seater has the biggest trunk space in its class at 223 litres. And if you want even more space, its multi-configuration seats for the second row has an easy one-touch tilt and tumble in a 60:40 configuration while third row have 50:50 tilt and tumble.
I could easily heap all the luggage in with the third row folded and my parents, sitting in the second row, did not have to compromise on space and comfort - the rear air con vents kept them cool during the trip - which made them (and me) very happy.
Honda also dropped in a very capable 1.5-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine delivering 120PS at 6,600rpm and 145Nm of torque at 4,600rpm. It is mated to a CVT (continuous variable transmission) which is very capable for this journey.
The noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels are acceptable and the only complaint is that the engine drones when accelerating.
The car handles well for a tall vehicle and the suspension is tuned for comfort absorbing all the bumpy surfaces with ease.
The V variant of the Honda BR-V is priced at RM92,800 (on-the road with insurance and GST). It is attractive not just for its design but its features, safety equipment, comfort, handling and price.
It’s no wonder the BR-V has become one of the most best-selling models for Honda Malaysia.
