Preview

Honda has officially presented a prototype model of the BR-V, an all-new car that will be a direct rival to the Hyundai Creta, Renault Duster and the Mahindra XUV 500. The Honda BR-V prototype is a seven-seater compact SUV that combines the utility of an SUV with the spacious interior of an MPV, although what’s even better is the fact that this new model is headed for the Indian market. We expect Honda India to showcase the BR-V at the 2016 Auto Expo.

Taking inspiration from other Honda models, the design echoes the Honda CR-V and even the Mobilio MPV if we look at the thick chrome grille and the window-line which gets an interesting kink on the rear door. The prototype also features a high ground clearance, sturdy looking roof rails, LED taillights and 16-inch wheels.

Inside the cabin, Honda is promising class-leading levels of space and features a multi-Information display and rear air conditioner between the first and second row seats. The top-spec BR-V will also come with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, hill start assist and vehicle stability assist as standard.

In terms of drivetrain, the Indonesian-spec BR-V will get a 120bhp, 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine with either a new 6-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). As for the Indian market, Honda India will also plonk in a 1.5-litre diesel unit when the BR-V hits the showroom here. The latter engine option is the same 100bhp four cylinder unit that currently powers the Mobilio although Honda could improve the overall refinement a bit before putting it in the BR-V.

Honda has made it official that the BR-V will go on sale in Indonesia in early 2016, followed by other markets. Speaking of which, the car is likely to be positioned in between the Mobilio and the CR-V at the time of the launch.

Given its seven-seater configuration and the SUV-like elevated stance, the BR-V holds a lot of potential to take on the other seven-seater offering in its segment – the Mahindra XUV 500. And with prices higher than that of the City sedan and ranging between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 14 lakh, Honda should be able to find a big chunk of potential compact SUV buyers.

Interior image source: autonetmagz