An MPV trapped in an SUV body
2023 Honda BR-V S CVT
The first-generation BR-V sold more than 23,000 examples in six years. That translates to almost 4,000 models sold annually, or about 320 units monthly. When I saw the all-new, second-gen model, I knew that Honda had a winner.
True enough, at the start of the year, barely two months after its launch, the 2023 BR-V sold 805 units, most of them were this model — the S CVT. I borrowed a test unit to see what was going on.
That grille and the flat body surface are so reminiscent of the Honda Pilot, which is why the SUV comes to mind when I look at the latest generation of Honda’s MPV. Gone are the curvy body and the sharp lines. This new look is neater, more elegant, and upscale.
Even in Taffeta White, the chrome wing at the front edge of the hood manages to stick out. The front nose is not as elaborate as the Pilot SUV but adds a more formal flair to the
BR-V. This trim is third from the top, yet it still has top-of-the-line exterior features like full LED headlights, fog lights, taillights, and a high-mount stop lamp. It also has roof rails, a shark’s fin antenna, and a rear wiper. The only noticeable thing it lacks is the power-folding side mirrors, but it is not something any motorist cannot live without.
Honda deserves a pat on the back for redefining what an MPV should look like with the all-new BR-V body. Look at it from the front or at a 45% angle, and this vehicle could be mistaken for an SUV. The only dead giveaway is the body length when viewed from the side. Even the rear is refreshingly understated and is a nice change from overly designed tailgates in the segment.
If you get this lower S variant instead of the V, know you will not have the smart entry feature. You get keyless entry, but fishing the keyfob out of your pocket or bag is a hassle if your hands are full. If that sounds like you (a lot), you might want to get the higher trim for easier ingress (and egress).
The MPV body and the tall ceiling ensure the BR-V has a comfortable and versatile cabin. That roominess was palpable as soon as I opened the doors. There is plenty of leg and headroom in front, a spacious second row, but like all seven-seaters, the third row is best left for kids.
There are no padded surfaces on the dashboard, but at least the plastics do not look cheap; after all, it is a Honda. Only a few silver trims stand out, and the seven-inch touchscreen with Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth streaming. The operating system looks like a third-party app, so I suggest you keep your device plugged in for a better graphic user interface. It has a nice-looking, intuitive manual climate control system with a second-row vent, two USB-A ports, two 12-V outlets, audio controls on the steering wheel, and an ignition Start/stop button.
A bit more bolstering on the fabric seats would be better, but as it is, the fit is snug and quickly got me in the proper driving position. Parents will love the interior versatility. It takes cargo of different shapes and sizes. It fit my mountain bike without removing the front wheel, and the low ground clearance compared to an SUV made it easier to load.
Despite sharing the same displacement with most of its competitors, Honda managed to squeeze more power (121-PS) and torque (145-Nm) from its 1.5-liter VTEC engine with fuel injection. Those are ok numbers in the city (because of all the traffic), but the expressways will put it through a workout if you overtake a lot.
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) lets it maintain RPM below 2,000 even at 100 km/h. But to make a quick pass, regardless of speed, added throttle pressure sends the tach close to 3,000 right away. It sounds dramatic, but fortunately, under combined driving conditions, it still returned 14.3 km/l.
Cabin comfort is better. The ride is softer and does a great job of muting road harshness. A bit of noise comes in so that needs improvement.
Speed is not its forte, neither is handling (because of the high ceiling) and as a real MPV, it really should not be. It looks like an SUV on the outside, but its true purpose is to haul your family (or goods) as safely and efficiently as possible. I especially appreciate that Honda gave it a reverse camera (with guidelines) even at its ₱1.150 million price point.
The 2023 Honda BR-V S CVT has the edge over the Xpander, Stargazer, and the Avanza in engine output, but the exterior design sets it apart. If you want to stand out in the sea of MPVS today, this should be on top of your list.