
Steering mounted audio controls add to convenience of the driver
2 DIN integrated audio system is easy to use and ergonomic
ABS and dual front airbags add to the safety quotient
The Honda Brio features an elegant design with large headlamps, flanked by a thick single black slat grille on the inner sides. The bumper bears a simple design and a strong shoulder line on the side help create a kinetic stance. The rear has a large glass area, giving the Brio a distinctive look. The Honda Brio measures 3,610 mm in length, 1,680 mm in width and 1,500 mm in width. The wheelbase of 2.345 mm liberates more room on the inside. The hatchback is available in five colours, Rallye Red, Alabaster Silver, Urban Titanium, White Orchid Pearl and Taffeta White.
The interiors of the Honda Brio are spacious to seat four adults of average height comfortably. The AC is powerful and cools the small cabin quickly despite the absence of rear AC vents. There is enough storage space to accommodate small objects and one-litre bottles slot in easily as well. The rear does not have any door pockets and legroom too is limited. The Honda Brio’s infotainment system does not support navigation or touch inputs. That said, it has Bluetooth connectivity and steering mounted audio controls, that adds to the convenience and reduces driver distraction.
The Honda Brio is powered by a 1,198 cc i VTEC petrol engine that generates 86.7hp power at 6,000 rpm and 109Nm torque at 2,500 rpm. The engine is responsive right from the start and has a good balance between performance and mileage. Although, the motor is a single overhead cam (SOHC) one, the engine is not sluggish and can ferry four adults with ease.
The Honda Brio has two gearbox options, a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic transmission. Gear changes on the manual are effortless and the light clutch adds to the ease of driving the Honda Brio. The automatic gearbox is a torque convertor unit, that has a pronounced shift shock. The gearbox is a lightweight unit that helps increase the mileage as well.
Honda Brio’s ACE body structure is designed to be light without sacrificing structural rigidity, owing to a mix of lightweight materials. Crumple zones are all around the cabin aid occupant safety. The upper VX and VX AT variants also have dual front airbags and ABS as part of the package.
The Honda Brio has a claimed mileage 18.5 km/l for the 5-speed manual transmission variants while the automatic has 16.5 km/l. These figures are a result of the light kerb weight of 930 kg but aren’t the best in the segment.