2. It’s deceivingly spacious.

more like the CR-V — that familiar childhood best friend all grown up, but still ready to take on memory lane on any given day. The familiarity starts from its boxy front side with the rounded, slightly jutting bumper. This design is proportioned all the way to its wide window frames, ending at its rounded hatchback. Overall, you are looking at something that is basic and young but sporty.

If there was anything that could use improvement in terms of design, it would be the 14-inch alloy wheels. While the

model in its category, the stock design does not do justice to the youthfulness of vehicle. In fact, to the more discerning car owner, nevermind age, it may be one of dashboard and the fabric upholstery of the seats. It’s all very well-made, however, and the interior layout holds true to the signature practicality of every Honda vehicle. Each control point is in its proper and predictable place right down to the 7-inch infotainment system that

sits atop the climate control switches. Again, there is next to nothing special in the looks department, precisely because what is extraordinary lies in the car’s practical features.

Practical is an understatement for the

the capacity in both seating and cargo. Starting with the front row, there is little to no cramping for the driver. The height of the vehicle makes ingress and egress smooth and easy, although the seat’s angling toward the backside could get uncomfortable in long drives. What would make it perfect if there was the option to adjust the height of the driver’s seat to allow more visibility over the hood.

Legroom is generous, both toward the front and sideways — wiggle room for the backside is always a plus, as this extends all the way up to shoulder support, allowing the driver to have a more supple seated posture. The passenger, on the other hand, enjoys even more comfort, with the ability to do a full leg stretch at its maximum length.

can easily seat 3 petite individuals or 2 average Filipino males. Even with the front row seats extended halfway, passengers in the back seat can have a good leg angle despite the seemingly small cabin. This makes it perfect for small group outings and a regular city commute.

Seating is one thing, but cargo is another. Surprisingly, this compact-looking

- gage. With the back seat folded up, 258 through most of the new vehicles under the Honda product range, it can stand up to its brothers, like the Jazz and the Civic. Sure, it lacks that sporty appeal and the punch, but even on just a 1.2L engine, it was torquey and can manuever well through the city streets. Clearly, it could use more power. Even with a peppy engine, it was challenging to climb up steeper parking ramps, the likes of Greenbelt 3. However, what it lacked in turbo power, it made up for in a smooth driving experience. The steering was light and easy and the responsiveness was pure Honda. It won’t win any racing medals, but it will safely take you where you need to go. Perhaps in the next refresh, Honda would consider upgrading to a push-button start/ stop engine rather than maintaining the use of a traditional key. - prise. While there wasn’t much to see at