Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has already given Filipinos a taste of the second-generation BR-V at the 2022 Philippine International Motor Show. But that serves as a preview rather than a launch.
As one of the company’s bestsellers throughout its lifetime, the BR-V is an important model, especially with the sea of small seven-seater options in the market.
If you’re among those waiting for the next-gen BR-V, the long wait will be over soon as HCPI has already announced that it will officially arrive in showrooms on November 21, 2022. And while we expect to get our hands on the crossover before its debut, let’s look at what we can expect from the Philippine-spec BR-V based on what the automaker has already shared.
Launched as the production version of the N7X SUV concept, the BR-V looks like an SUV despite lacking the things that actually make an SUV. This is good news for those who are in this trend, which is apparently many based on numbers alone.
Design-wise, expect the upcoming BR-V to have angular lines, a trapezoidal slatted grille, a pair of sharp-looking LED headlamps, and slim LED daytime running lamps. There’s also a silver trim on the lower part of the lower air intake to add to that pizzazz.
On the side, there will be plastic cladding that runs throughout the bottom up until the rear end – a common design execution among crossovers and beefed-up MPVs like the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross. Expect a set of two-tone alloys for the top-spec variant, measuring 17 inches in diameter, while ground clearance is said to have been improved in the new model.
Meanwhile, the 7-seater BR-V is touted to have a spacious and comfortable cabin that provides better legroom and head clearance than before. Interior amenities will likely include Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. Whether this will be wireless or not, including wireless charging, that’s still a mystery. What we’re sure of is that leather will be the upholstery for the top VX and V variants, while the S CVT and MT trims will have High-Grade Fabric. There will also be a manual height adjuster and adjustable steering wheel across the range.
Powering the Honda BR-V is a 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engine coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). In Thailand, this four-banger can make up to 119hp and 145Nm of torque.
Given HCPI’s push for safety, we’re expecting Honda Sensing on the all-new model at least with the top-spec VX variant. Honda Sensing, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and other driving safety aids, should offer great value for the crossover.
Speaking of the variant range, the 2023 Honda BR-V is expected to be offered in four variants, starting with the S MT trim which is already available in CVT. The lineup continued to V CVT and tops out at VX CVT.
Here are the colors to be offered by HCPI:
- Premium Opal White Silver (new color; VX CVT and V CVT)
- Meteoroid Grey Metallic (new color; all variants)
- Crystal Black Pearl (V CVT and S CVT)
- Lunar Silver Metallic (all variants)
- Tafetta White (S CVT and S MT)
If you’re interested in the next-generation BR-V, you may now put down a reservation for one through any of HCPI’s 37 dealerships nationwide.