Just when mini MPVs seemed doomed to extinction by the crossover horde, Honda’s launched the seven-seater Mobilio to rival the Suzuki Ertiga and Toyota Avanza in the affordable people-mover segment.
The Mobilio is powered a 1,5-litre four cylinder 16-valve engine equipped with the i-VTEC intelligent variable valve-timing system (the same unit that does duty in the Ballade). It has peak outputs of 88 kW/145 N.m and is mated with a five-speed gearbox (a CVT option will be offered from early 2015).
Despite its comparatively compact footprint, the Mobilio is said to “offer sedan-like space, but with the benefit of three seating rows”. The 60:40-split second-seat row has a slide and recline function and the second row can fold down in one motion, making access to the rear seating easier.
The third-seat row is split 50:50 with a reclining function, and offers ample legroom. Both seat rows can be folded flat and tumbled forward to maximise cargo space. Even with all seats in place, the Mobilio will accomodate 223 dm3 of cargo, which increases to 521 dm3 with the third row folded down.
The 1,5 Trend is the entry-level model and its exterior treatment includes colour-coded bumpers, an integrated rear spoiler and 15-inch steel wheels.
Inside, there are three cup holders and four bottle holders, a lidded glovebox and key-operated central locking, electric front and rear windows, height-adjustable headlights, and tilt-adjustable steering wheel are fitted.
The 1,5 Comfort includes all the standard features of the Trend version, but externally, the model gains colour-coded door handles and exterior mirrors, and is equipped with mud flaps as standard. The interior features chromed air vent rings, and metallic finishes for the door handles, gearknob and multi-function steering wheel accents. The centre stack is fitted with an integrated, MP3-compatible audio system with both USB and auxiliary inputs.
In addition, the Comfort is equipped with air-conditioning (with separate vents for rear occupants), remote central locking, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, a rear screen wiper, and a 12V socket in the centre console for charging personal devices such as mobile phones, tablets and music players.
In terms of the Honda’s active and passive safety equipment, Mobilio models feature dual front airbags, front inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, inertia reel seatbelts for the two outer second-row passengers and third-row occupants, and a lap belt for the second-row middle passenger. Head restraints are fitted to all seating positions, the firm says.
Over and above a 3-year/100 000 km warranty, the Comfort will also be offered with a 2-year/30 000 km service plan. Service intervals are every one year/15 000 km.
Pricing:
Honda Mobilio 1,5 Trend: R179 990
Honda Mobilio 1,5 Comfort: R198 990
