The Honda BR-V is synonymous with sensible motoring and offers space for up to seven people. Is the BR-V going to work for someone who’s just earned his or her driver’s license? We think it will work like a charm. Here’s why.
1. Hondas are known for being safe.
If you are an inexperienced driver, safety features should be at the top of your list. While we’d all like seven airbags and traction control as standard features, this isn’t always attainable, given your specific budget. Fortunately, Honda takes safety very seriously. Apart from ABS, EBD and two airbags in the BR-V, all Hondas have a strong and sturdy ‘skeleton’ that keeps the cabin intact in case of an accident. Honda calls it their ACE body structure, which is an acronym for Advanced Compatibility Engineering.
Honda BR-V Elegance models also have a rear-view camera. We’re a little disappointed that only the Comfort and Elegance models have rear parking sensors, as the BR-V is essentially a high-riding station wagon and its behind is rather long.
All models have rear fog lights, while the Elegance model has fog lamps in front as well.
2. The BR-V is has a reliable powertrain.
The 1.5-litre engine in the BR-V is a faithful, tried-and-tested unit and is known for not letting its owners down. The BR-V itself is also not overly complex. The engine is naturally aspirated, so you won’t have issues with turbos later. Another feather in the BR-V’s cap is that the manual model has six gears, while competitors like the Suzuki Ertiga and Toyota Rush only have five gears. This means the BR’V’s engine revs are lower at highway speed, so there’s less strain on the powertrain. It’s also considerably quieter since Honda added more soundproofing materials.
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3. It’s ergonomic.
The top-spec Elegance model has a seven-inch touchscreen system and there are satellite buttons on the steering wheel to keep your eyes on the road. Everything falls within easy reach of the driver. In fact, all Honda’s are known for being remarkably easy to live with, whether you’re 19 or 74. Bluetooth connectivity is a standard feature on all models, as well as USB / AUX ports. Elegance models get the full leather interior treatment which is especially practical when you’re eating on the run.
4. If space is what you need, the BR-V will supply it.
The second row offers loads of legroom, and while the third row is a little tight, it’s fine for primary school kids. But, if you plan on using your BR-V for kite surfing and scuba diving instead of carpooling, once you flatten those rear seats there will be space for days. You can also remove the rearmost row completely and get even more sports equipment in there.
5. The BR-V has an attractive warranty and service plan.
All BR-V models come standard with a five-year/200 000 km warranty, and three-year AA Roadside Assist. If something happens, this offers the new driver immense peace of mind.
A new four-year/60 000 km extended service plan is now included on the Honda BR-V Comfort and Elegance models, and is available as an option on the Trend variant. (Service intervals are every 15 000 km.)
Current pricing (July 2020)
| BR-V 1.5 Trend manual | R247 400 |
| BR-V 1.5 Comfort manual | R309 000 |
| BR-V 1.5 Comfort CVT | R329 000 |
| BR-V 1.5 Elegance manual | R333 300 |
| BR-V 1.5 Elegance CVT | R353 000 |
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