Accessories Brand Honda 

Honda Mobilio

Honda Mobilio Review

Summary

The Mobilio, Honda’s first-ever MPV (Multi-purpose vehicle), is known for its strong performance and excellent driving dynamics. The MPV, launched in 2014, is the third product built on the Brio platform. The second product, based on the Brio, was the Amaze that became one of the best-selling Honda cars in India soon after the launch.

The front-fascia of the MPV looks identical to the Brio. However, the large chrome grille, black finishing on front bumper and headlights with new details distinguish both the cars. Interior design is very basic and simple. It shares few components with Brio, but still lacks several important features such as Bluetooth connectivity, auto-lock, parking sensors, climate control system etc. It offers ample legroom and headroom for the first and second row passengers, but the third row of seat is restricted.

The MPV is available in two engine options – a 1173bhp, 1.5-litre, i-VTEC petrol and a 98.6bhp, 1.5-litre, i-DTECH diesel. A 5-speed manual transmission is also on offer. It’s one of the most fuel efficient Honda cars in India. Both the engines deliver strong performance. It’s easy to drive; ride quality and handling are pretty impressive.

Further to this, read Honda Mobilio Road Test details by our expert.

Exterior

Designed on extended version of the Brio platform, the MPV share a great resemblance with its hatchback sibling. The large chrome grille, black finishing on front bumper and headlights with new details differentiate both the vehicles. It sports 15-inches wheels and black finishing around the third row window running towards the rear end. Wearing projector headlights with DRLs rear spoiler, new front grille, stylish wheels and different styling elements, the RS trim looks sportier than other variants.

Interior

Based on Honda’s “Man maximum, machine minimum” philosophy, the MPV is very well-packaged from inside, and offers ample cabin space. However, the design is very conventional. The dashboard is carried forward from the popular Honda car models – Amaze & Brio. However, the quality is improved. The dual tone (black and beige) finishing and side AC vents with chrome lining enhance its interior appeal. The MPV lacks several essential features such as auto-lock, climate control system, parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity etc. The first two rows of seats, with ample leg and headroom, are comfortable for tall passengers, while the third row seat is little congested.

Engine & Transmission

The MPV is available in two engine options – a 1.5-litre, i-VTEC petrol and a 1.5-litre, i-DTEC diesel engines that power other Honda car models as well including the City. The petrol variants are powered with a 1497cc, 1.5-litre, i-VTECH engine, which is good for 117.3bhp and 145Nm. The diesel trims, on the other hand, derive power from a 1498cc, 1.5-litre, i-DTEC engine that develops a maximum power of 98.6bhp at 3600rpm with 200Nm of torque at 1750rpm. Both the powertrains are coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Performance and Handling

Both the engines are quite punchy and perform smoothly. The high ground clearance, agile suspension and light steering aid to its ride quality and handling. Body roll is acceptable. The cabin insulation, however, could have been better.

Braking System

The front disc brakes and rear drum brakes are robust, and handle the extra weight of the MPV. For sudden braking situations, it gets ABS (Anti-lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic brake-force distribution) as standard feature.

Mileage

The 1498 cc Diesel – powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 22 kmpl in city and 24 kmpl on highways, while the Petrol variant offers a mileage of 15 kmpl on urban roads and 17 kmpl on freeways, respectively.

Safety Features

The MPV is equipped with driver seat belt reminder, engine immobilizer and high mount stop lamp LED. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic brake-force distribution) comes as standard safety feature. While the front dual SRS airbags, front seat belt pre-tensioner with load limiter, auto door lock with speed and security alarm are available mid variants onwards.

Verdict

The Honda Mobilio is a decent 7-seater with spacious interior, comfortable ride and efficient engines. But as they say everything comes at a price.

Competition

The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is the closest rival of the Honda Mobilio. The Mobilio is more spacious, sporty and powerful than the Etriga. Honda’s 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine is known for its power and refinement level, while the 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine is the most fuel efficient. It’s the pricing, interior plastic quality and ride quality where the Ertiga takes lead over the Honda’s MPV.

Pros

  • Plenty of legroom and headroom
  • Engine performance
  • Fuel efficiency
  • Impressive ride quality and neutral handling
  • Easy to drive
  • Honda’s after sales services

Cons

  • Low 3rd seat row is restricted, good for kids only.
  • Conventional interior design
  • NVH levels need an improvement
  • Lacks several practical features such as adjustable front neck restraints, thin sheet metal, full MID etc.

Awards

  • Variant Car of the Year – Car India Awards 2014
  • Highest Ranked Premium Compact Car – J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2014 India Initial Quality Study (IQS)

Source:https://www.cartrade.com/honda-cars/mobilio