AUTOMOTIVE NEWS
Honda has unveiled their second-generation Brio at the 2018 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show.
While it would be fair to call the original Brio’s design somewhat ‘quirky’, the new Brio sports a more mature look – almost Honda Jazz-like. Much like the Amaze sedan that was unveiled earlier this year, the new Brio sports a more elongated side profile. The most noticeable change is out back, as the Brio now gains regular styled taillights and bins the glass bootlid in favour of conventional tailgate.
In terms of size, the new Brio gains an additional 205mm of length to 3,815mm, with its wheelbase growing by 60mm to 2,405mm. Interestingly, it remains the same width at 1,680mm, whilst the compact car is now 15mm lower at 1,485mm. And thanks to the increase in length, this means a more spacious interior than before, and more luggage space, which has increased by a staggering 83 litres to 258 litres.
Powering the new Brio is said to be the same 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol motor from its predecessor. Outputs now stand at 66kw and 110nm – up from 65kw and 109nm on the current SA-spec Brio. The motor will be mated to a 5-speed manual as standard, or an optional 7-speed CVT transmission. Honda SA will confirm local specification closer to its introduction.
While Honda SA has yet to confirm when the new Brio and its Amaze sibling will be launched locally, expect it to happens towards the end of 2018 or in early 2019. The new Honda Brio will go up against the new Suzuki Swift, the new Ford Figo, the Volkswagen Polo Vivo and the Toyota Etios.
Also worth a look: the Honda Amaze and the Honda Elevate: WR-V Successor Debuts in SA.
FAQ
Q: What does the Honda Brio cost in South Africa?
The second-generation Honda Brio is expected to be priced from around R220,000 to R280,000 when it launches in South Africa, positioning it competitively against rivals like the Suzuki Swift and Ford Figo in the affordable hatchback segment.
Q: Is the Honda Brio worth buying?
The new Honda Brio offers excellent value with its improved interior space, 258-litre boot capacity, and Honda's proven 1.2-litre i-VTEC reliability, making it a solid choice for first-time buyers or city commuters who prioritise practicality and fuel economy.
Q: What are the Honda Brio's main competitors in South Africa?
The Honda Brio competes directly with the Suzuki Swift, Ford Figo, Volkswagen Polo Vivo, and Toyota Etios in the entry-level hatchback market, with each offering different strengths in terms of features, pricing, and brand reputation.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Honda Brio?
While official consumption figures haven't been released for the new model, the Honda Brio's 1.2-litre i-VTEC engine typically delivers around 5.5 to 6.2 litres per 100km, making it one of the more economical choices in its class for daily commuting.
Should You Buy It?
The best entry-level hatchback under R280,000 in SA is shaping up to be this refreshed Honda Brio. With its mature new styling, significantly larger 258-litre boot, and Honda's bulletproof 1.2-litre i-VTEC engine producing 66kW, it ticks all the right boxes for practical motoring. The longer wheelbase means more rear passenger space, while the available CVT transmission offers smooth city driving. At an expected starting price of around R220,000, it undercuts premium rivals while offering Honda's legendary reliability. If you need an affordable, spacious city car with low running costs and strong resale value, definitely wait for the new Brio rather than settling for the ageing current model.
FAQ
Q: What does the Honda Brio cost in South Africa?
The second-generation Honda Brio is expected to be priced from around R220,000 to R280,000 when it launches in South Africa, positioning it competitively against rivals like the Suzuki Swift and Ford Figo in the affordable hatchback segment.
Q: Is the Honda Brio worth buying over competitors?
The new Brio offers excellent value with its 258-litre boot space, 66kW 1.2-litre i-VTEC engine, and Honda's reputation for reliability, making it a solid choice against the Suzuki Swift, Ford Figo, and Polo Vivo if you prioritise practicality and build quality.
Q: What are the Honda Brio's engine specifications and fuel consumption?
The Honda Brio features a 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine producing 66kW and 110Nm, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 7-speed CVT transmission, though Honda SA has yet to confirm official fuel consumption figures for local specifications.
Q: When will the new Honda Brio be available in South Africa?
Honda SA expects to launch the second-generation Brio locally towards the end of 2018 or early 2019, with final specifications and pricing to be confirmed closer to the launch date.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the Honda Brio should be on your shortlist if you're shopping for the best small hatchback under R280,000 in SA. The second-generation model addresses most of the original's quirks with a more mature design, significantly more boot space at 258 litres, and Honda's proven 1.2-litre i-VTEC reliability. At an expected starting price of R220,000, it offers better practicality than the Suzuki Swift and superior build quality compared to the Ford Figo, making it the smart money choice for first-time buyers or city commuters who value space and dependability over flashy features.
