As far as crossover-styled 7-seater family haulers go, the Honda BR-V is among the more popular contenders in the segment. Six years from its introduction in 2016, the first generation has already been replaced by an all-new model in two ASEAN markets, sparking rumors that the Philippines could be next in line before the year ends.
The second-generation Honda BR-V is already in two ASEAN markets
The most likely opportunity could be at the upcoming Philippine International Motor Show, slated to return for the 2022 edition this September. This biennial automotive exhibition is organized by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. or CAMPI, which counts Honda Cars Philippines (HCPI) among its regular members.
Expectations are high that HCPI will take advantage of the event to unveil the second-generation BR-V for our market. After all, the model is already available in two countries within our region: Indonesia (where it is currently assembled) and Thailand.
In its home market, the new BR-V is sold in five variants across three trim levels, with the E-Type as the only version straddling both 6-speed manual and continuously variable transmission (CVT) options. These are mated to a 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder 16-valve engine rated at 119 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque.
HCPI would do well to time the all-new BR-V's launch with the upcoming 2022 PIMS
Of the BR-V range in Indonesia, only the flagship Prestige Type is offered with the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist features which includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Auto High-Beam (AHB), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and Lead-Car Departure Notification (LCDN).
It's a different story in Thailand, where the new BR-V was recently launched. Although the country technically imports its units from Indonesia, there are notable differences.
For one, the Thai release comprises just the base E and higher spec EL trim levels. Another thing is that a manual transmission option is non-existent, as both trims use a CVT. The third and most important distinction is that Honda Sensing comes standard across the range.
HCPI has committed to offer its upcoming Philippine models with Honda Sensing
The improvements that Honda has included in the BR-V so far bode well for the Philippines, where the model has consistently been among the automaker’s best-sellers since debuting in December 2016. Its most successful year yet was in 2019, when 4,003 examples rolled out of dealerships and into the homes of satisfied customers. Will HCPI add the second-generation BR-V to its roster before the year ends?
Keep your eyes peeled for potential local releases at Philkotse.com.