Honda Mobilio

Have been driving the Mobilio for the nearly 1 month and also done the 1K servicing. The Mobilio available in Singapore (not to be confused with the 1st generation Mobilio Spike - built in Japan) are built in Thailand. It is based on the Brio platform, an eco car design for Asian markets, stretched to its current form to seat 7 and to fill a market need for Multi Utilty Vehicles (MUVs). The Brio platform is not exported to Singapore and Malaysia, so it is not familiar to most of us.

There are several variants of the Mobilio in other markets, but in Singapore, only the top variant, Mobilio RS is available.

Despite its Asian roots, the Mobilio in its current form is sporty looking with full body kits, projector headlights, DRL, fog lights, spoiler etc overall that always catches my attention. While some may think otherwise, i think the edgy looks and lines of Mobilio gradually grows on you and i find the front H grill aggressive looking.

Being designed in Thailand, also means its features are truly aligned with the needs of tropical countries - namely enough space for people and goods, 3rd row air conditioning, simple controls, powerful engine and drivability, all while retaining a fairly compact dimension. It is shorter than most sedans, with a higher driving position, high ground clearance to absorb bumps (highest amount the MPVs), while looking very unMPV like - it looks more like a hatchback or station wagon.

The Mobilio 1.5 litres i-VTEC engine coupled with Honda's Earth Dreams CVT transmission allows a smooth drive with good fuel efficiency. So far have been averaging 13 to 14 km per litre.

While some of the materials used on the Mobilios seems thin, it contributes to a lower curb weight - vs that of the Honda Freed or Sienta. With similar 1.5 litres engines, the Mobilio provide more power to propel the car and its shows in its drivability. At normal cruising speeds and idle the engine

Interiors are plasticky and looks unexciting, but fit and finishings are acceptable. Dash board is simple but functional. Plenty of storage pockets on the doors etc but there is only one enclosed storage which is the glove box. Probably the most high tech part of the dashboard is the Alpine head unit which has blue tooth, reverse camera, USB input, ablility playback videos, DVD, GPS, which allows for a clean dashboard.

Why Honda Mobilio?

- In the compact MPV segment, it is the only MPV where the third row and second row can properly sit full length adults.

Many compact MPV can realistically sit only children in the third-row.

- And it has a usable boot space for daily use even with the third-row upright.

Third-row plus boot is better than Maxda5, Stream, Wish and Sienta.

- For your Mondays to Fridays where the MPV mostly sits only the driver, Mobilio can be very quick, making overtakes a brisk, even tempting you to chiong for the fun of it. Keeps pace with BMWs and even eats them.

- Handling is great for a MPV, feels planted like a sedan and not topsy heavy. It is a joy to drive, leisurely as well as briskly.

- Fantastic Honda iVtec engine L15Z1. Now mated to a very very clever 7-"Speed" CVT.

- The CVT delivers quick response for overtakes, yet remains torquey at such low rpm during cruising giving good fuel economy. Why is the CVT clever? It is essentially controlled by a computer and "Drive by Wire". For instance, it has a "Creep" Algorithm, so it allows you to cruise at low rpm on expressways and in slow traffic yet speed up quickly for overtaking. Also has a "Accelerate algorithm" From traffic light--not algorithm to do 0-100kmh sprint, but allows the MPV to morph to an urgent-ant and pull ahead of everyone, with mere half-throttle and still in "D" Mode.

- If no one tell you, you wouldn't be able to tell it is 1.5litre. Feels more like 1.8litre. The eager vtec engine is vocal when rev, you need to get use to it.

Been driving this car for close to a year. I will say, if you don't mind interior aesthetic portion or at times, laggy engine response (due to being 1.5cc engine dragging a MPV). This car can be pretty decent and good to drive.

Like all Honda cars, emphasis is on practicality. If you need a car that brings your family around from point A to B, this is the car. Lack of electronics gadgets or items could be a good thing as it ensure the car being less likely to be break down due to electrical faults (again depend on whether are you are a sucker for the latest gadgets).

However, the fuel consumption for this car has been pretty consistent (11km to 12.5km per litre). Surprisingly too is the cornering, you don't really feel much of the body roll.

All in all, if you just want to fetch people and don't mind the status (as compared to the way better Odyssey or Conti MPVs) or spartan interior, and you will rather spend the extra money on a property (after all, car is a depreciating item - not even classified as asset). This car is for you, simple as that.

Coming to week 2 of driving this mini MPV, after handing over my Grandis to the AD.

Overall, the ride has been expected - perky engine, fuel efficient, light steering like a sedan.

At the expense of smaller storage area (with all seats up), underpowered engine (with full load), non-premium plasticity used for interior and poor soundproofing.

Once you managed your expectation (check out the youtube reviews by the Indian, Indonesia and Philippines), you will be fine.

If you expect the same luxury ride (like my Grandis...), you will be sorely disappointed.

Test drove it at Kah Motor Leng Kee Road, The sales man Felix Lee is friendly and helpful, this totally change my perception of Kah Motor Services, The 1.5L ivtec engine is very responsive I naver feel under power with 5 person in this MPV, the 3rd leg room is good for adults and the 2nd row can be adjusted, 3rd row can be individualy incline, exterior look sporty and interior room space is very practical to carry 7 person, waiting to collect the MPV in two week time.

Was looking for an upgrade to a MPV and shortlisted a few. After test driving and consideration of budget and value. Honda Mobilio is my first choice for a very simple reason, reliable brand and easy maintenance. Some might think that the price paid for is not worth as the feature is very simple and basic. But thinking about it, they make it simple so that maintenance will be easier.

I was looking for a reliable MPV so I kept my focus to just Avanza and Mobilo. I first test drive both Avanza and Mobilo. After I test drive both cars, I bought Mobilo.

After driving a continental MPV for 3 years, I am impressed with the acceleration and handling of Mobilo. On paper, its fuel consumption is fantastic for a MPV. I am looking forward to collect my new car in 2 weeks time.