The 2018 Honda BR-V 1.5L V Auto is a compact seven-seater crossover SUV that blends the practicality of a larger vehicle with the agility of a smaller one. It’s designed for families and individuals who need extra passenger space without stepping up to a full-size SUV. The V variant is one of the higher trims and comes with a range of features aimed at providing comfort, convenience, and technology, making it a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and affordable family car.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the 2018 Honda BR-V 1.5L V Auto:
1. Engine and Performance
•Engine: The 2018 Honda BR-V 1.5L V Auto is powered by a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine. This engine is known for being efficient and reliable, delivering adequate performance for a compact SUV.
•Power Output: The engine produces 118 horsepower (88 kW) at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600 rpm. This output is sufficient for everyday driving, offering a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
•Transmission: The engine is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which provides smooth and efficient acceleration while maximizing fuel economy. CVTs are known for their seamless gear transitions.
•Drive Type: The BR-V 1.5L V is front-wheel drive (FWD), making it suitable for urban and light off-road driving. It is not designed for heavy off-roading but performs well in typical city and suburban conditions.
•Fuel Economy: The 1.5L engine and CVT combination offer excellent fuel efficiency, averaging around 6.5–7.0 liters per 100 km (approximately 14–15 km/l) under combined driving conditions, making it an economical choice for families and daily commutes.
•Acceleration and Top Speed: The BR-V accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in around 11-12 seconds, with a top speed of around 180 km/h (112 mph). It’s not a performance vehicle, but it has enough power for regular city and highway driving.
2. Design and Exterior
•Body Style: The Honda BR-V is a compact 7-seater crossover SUV, with an emphasis on practicality and space efficiency. The vehicle has a boxy shape that maximizes interior space while maintaining a compact footprint for urban environments.
•Dimensions: The 2018 Honda BR-V measures approximately 4,453 mm in length, 1,735 mm in width, and 1,666 mm in height, with a 2,662 mm wheelbase. These dimensions contribute to a spacious cabin and good passenger comfort, while still being compact enough for city driving.
•Exterior Features:
•Projector halogen headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) for better visibility
•Front grille with chrome accents, providing a more premium appearance
•16-inch alloy wheels with a modern design
•Electric folding side mirrors with turn signal indicators
•Roof rails for added versatility and potential cargo options
•Front and rear bumpers designed to improve aerodynamics and protect the vehicle from minor scrapes
•Rear spoiler for a sporty, aerodynamic touch
•Ground Clearance: The BR-V has a ground clearance of approximately 201 mm, which is higher than many compact sedans, giving it an advantage on uneven or rough roads, though it’s not designed for off-roading.
3. Interior and Comfort
•Seating: The 2018 Honda BR-V 1.5L V Auto can comfortably seat 7 passengers across three rows of seats. The second-row seats are adjustable, offering better legroom or recline options. The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults on shorter trips.
•Cabin Features:
•Premium fabric upholstery with a stylish and modern design
•Manual adjustments for the front seats, though they offer sufficient comfort for long drives
•Tilt-adjustable steering wheel with mounted controls for added convenience
•Air conditioning system with rear air vents to ensure comfort for passengers in all rows
•Storage: The BR-V offers a relatively spacious boot, especially with the third-row seats folded down. The boot volume increases from around 223 liters to 539 liters when the third row is folded flat, providing ample room for luggage or large items.
•Additional Storage: The BR-V also offers several convenient storage spaces inside the cabin, including door pockets, cup holders, and a glove compartment.
4. Technology and Infotainment
•Infotainment System: The BR-V 1.5L V Auto comes with a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers:
•Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming
•USB and AUX ports for additional media connectivity
•CD/DVD player (available in some markets)
•Reverse camera with dynamic guidelines for safer parking and reversing
•Audio System: The vehicle is equipped with a 4-speaker sound system, which provides decent audio quality for music and other media.
•Additional Features:
•Keyless entry and push-button start for added convenience
•Steering wheel-mounted controls for audio and cruise control
•Rear air conditioning vents for better comfort in the rear seats
5. Safety Features
•Airbags: The 2018 Honda BR-V comes equipped with 6 airbags (front, side, and curtain airbags), which offer protection for all passengers in the event of a collision.
•Braking and Stability:
•ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for improved braking control
•EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) to optimize braking performance
•Brake Assist (BA) to assist in emergency braking situations
•Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) to help maintain control during slippery conditions
•Hill Start Assist (HSA) to prevent rollback when starting on an incline
•Other Safety Features:
•Rear Parking Sensors and reverse camera for easier maneuvering and parking
•Isofix child seat anchors for securing child seats safely
•Front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters to reduce injury in the event of a crash
6. Driving and Handling
•Suspension: The 2018 Honda BR-V 1.5L V Auto features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling stability.
•Handling: The BR-V has responsive steering and is easy to maneuver in both city and highway driving conditions. The vehicle is more focused on comfort than sportiness, making it a great choice for family use.
•Ride Comfort: The suspension system provides a smooth ride, absorbing most road imperfections and ensuring comfort for passengers, even over longer distances. The higher ground clearance also gives the BR-V an edge when driving over rough or uneven terrain.
7. Reliability and Maintenance
•Honda Reliability: Honda is known for its reliability, and the BR-V is no exception. The vehicle is built to last, and Honda’s reputation for durable engines and transmissions ensures the BR-V’s longevity.
•Warranty: The 2018 Honda BR-V typically comes with a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty (depending on the region), which covers most major components.
•Service Costs: Honda’s vehicles are relatively affordable to maintain, with widespread service networks and easily accessible parts. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping the vehicle running smoothly.
8. Price and Market
•Price Range: The 2018 Honda BR-V 1.5L V Auto is priced higher than the base variants but offers a well-rounded package with additional features. Prices may vary based on the region and condition of the vehicle (new or used).
•Market Positioning: The Honda BR-V competes in the compact crossover SUV segment, targeting families and individuals who need more space than a sedan but don’t want to opt for a larger, more expensive SUV. It competes with vehicles like the Toyota Rush, Suzuki Ertiga, and Mitsubishi Xpander.
Summary
The 2018 Honda BR-V 1.5L V Auto is an excellent choice for families who need a compact crossover with ample passenger and cargo space. The 1.5L engine, paired with a CVT transmission, delivers solid performance and good fuel efficiency. The seven-seat capacity, along with practical features like Honda’s Magic Seat and a spacious boot, makes the BR-V versatile and family-friendly. It is equipped with modern technology and safety features, ensuring a comfortable and secure driving experience. If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable, and practical vehicle for everyday use, the BR-V is a great option.