Honda’s Bold Runabout Vehicle or the Honda BR-V has been manufactured by the Japanese company since 2015. The vehicle is built on the Mobilio MPV and is categorised below Honda’s HR-V vehicle. The Honda BR-V has been in South Africa since late 2016 and is offered with manual and CVT options. There are significant omissions in terms of features available in the South African market which includes reverse parking sensors and daytime running lights. Of the omissions is a touchscreen infotainment system which has been recently introduced to the Indian market.

Honda India introduced the new voice controlled 7-inch Digipaid touchscreen infotainment system in its range topping Honda BR-V derivative, the VX. In the Indian market, the BR-V is the only car in its segment that lacked this before. The Digipad system is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, HDMI, USB inputs and a MicroSD input.  There is also the inclusion of a satellite navigation system that can be powered by Wifi to receive updates on traffic as well as facilitate browsing of the internet. The system also includes a built-in storage option which can house 1.5GB of information. The VX variant has also been further enhanced with the inclusion of rear camera support and parking sensors to assist parking the crossover. The voice control feature enables media, navigation as well as call functions for added driver convenience.

It is unclear whether these features will be introduced into the South African market. The Honda BR-V has fared well since its introduction in the country but with the progression of rival cars (like the Toyota Avanza, Suzuki Ertiga and Mahindra Xylo) Honda may need to consider upgrading the BR-V to retain its share of the market. The Honda BR-V is an adequately equipped crossover that provides a good space offering and great deal of versatility as a vehicle. It appeals mostly to those seeking a family car mostly for its high level of practicality and all round reliability. It is also considered to be of the more affordable SUV’s in the industry and if often cited for its value-for -money offering.