Recommended for you

Honda Mobilio 1.5 RS i-VTEC Luxe (A) vs Toyota Avanza 1.5 (A)

Honda Mobilio 1.5 RS i-VTEC Luxe (A) Review

Should you pump higher RON petrol for better performance? Not so fast...

» Go to articles

This is an old car model that is no longer for sale by the local distributor since Apr 2017.
Editor Review
spacer
spacer spacer
spacer
Honda Mobilio 1.5 RS i-VTEC Luxe (A) vs Toyota Avanza 1.5 (A)
29 Jun 2015  |  Honda Reviews
Those looking for a relatively economical way to transport seven people are likely to have a dilemma with these two offerings from Honda and Toyota.
spacer
spacer spacer
spacer
spacer
spacer
   Consumer Reviews of Honda Mobilio
spacer
3.5
 
7 Consumer Reviews
spacer
Comfort
3.5 Reliability
4.0
spacer
Handling
4.0 Features
3.0
spacer
Exterior Styling
4.0 Interior Design
2.5
spacer
Value for money
4.0 Engine Performance
4.0

  •   Sort By
  •  spacer 
  •  results/page
Klong
Clutched
1 reviews
6 points
11 forum posts Joined on 13-Apr-2008
Mobilio Truly Mobile  Posted on 11 Oct 2016
spacer
 
spacer
spacer
Comfort 3.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 4.0 Features 4.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 3.0
Value for money 3.0 Engine Performance 4.0
spacer

Review
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.

What I like
The RS look of the Mobilio with full body kits.
Powerful engine for its weight - responsive drive and steering
Spacious interior which can seat 6 + 1 comfortably
2nd row can be adjusted forward and back to create more leg room for 3rd row passengers.
Fairly large boot space even with 3rd row not folded up.
High tech head unit from Alpine
3rd row air conditioning
Large window area - particular 2nd row seats
Folding mechanism for 2nd row seats allows for both 2nd row seats in 60/40 split to be tumbled down.
Good fuel economy

What I do not like
3rd row can only be flipped up but not folded flat into the floor.
Noise insulation can be better - road and outside noises sometimes makes me thought that i forgotten to close a window - however, at normal cruising speeds 80 to 90 and idling, the noise level is not too bad and is reasonably refined. In fact most of the noise intrusion came from the air con compressor.
Lack of climate control
No arm rest
No cruise control


blytonfund
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 27-Jul-2016
Spacious, Quick and Joy to Drive MPV from Honda  Posted on 26 Jul 2016
spacer
 
spacer
spacer
Comfort 4.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 5.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 2.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 5.0
spacer

Review
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.

What I like
- The combined Audio-GPS system effectively turns your passenger/wife into a radio DJ for the kids while you drive. Play songs like USB stick or from your phone. Turns the journey into a children singing party behind.

- One-step tumble up middle row means passengers have the widest and easy access to third-row.

- Savings. Doesn't hurt your pocket, so you can spend your money on other more worthwhile things. Honda reliability. Low road tax. Good fuel/litre. One of the lowest depreciation/year MPV.

- Peace of Mind. Honda solid build quality. Bomb proof engine. Authorised dealer support.

- Good looks. Masculine looking.

What I do not like
the end.


Goodnessgracious
1st Gear
1 reviews
50 points
8 forum posts Joined on 07-Feb-2012
A modest yet reliable medium MPV  Posted on 21 Mar 2016
spacer
 
spacer
spacer
Comfort 3.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 4.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 3.0 Interior Design 2.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 3.0
spacer

Review
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.

What I like
- The ample headroom despite me being kinda tall (1.85m).
- The face of the car, looks aggressive and sporty.
- The boot space and ample leg room for second and third row (surprisingly).
- The easy and convenient folding of second and third row seats.
- Fuel economy.

What I do not like
- More for six adults and 1 kid (as the second row is kinda cramp).
- Not really sporty unless you are 'heavy footing' the accelerator. Again, even if you are revving past beyond 3K rpm, there's a 1-2 secs lag before you feel the surge. BUT, the car is really fast when the i-vtec engine kicks in.
- The (seemingly on a very tight budget) set up of this car as compared to the rest of Honda models. i.e. Drum brakes and etc.
- The LED daytime running lights is a nonsense haha.


Infohigh
1st Gear
2 reviews
49 points
41 forum posts Joined on 26-Dec-2011
Fuel efficient Mini-MPV with perky engine  Posted on 04 Feb 2016
spacer
 
spacer
spacer
Comfort 3.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 4.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 3.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 4.0
spacer

Review
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.

What I like
Perky engine - With light load, you can accelerate just like Fit. Don't expect a Turbo-charged response though.
Fuel efficient - Getting a range of 12 to 14+ KM/L. This is near double of my Grandis's appetite (7- 8 KM/L). The "Eco" (Economy) light will blink on if you reach efficient mode, encouraging you to save more fuel.
Light steering - Just like Jazz, the power steering is overpowered. If you like sports mode, look away.
Navigation + Bluetooth via DVD headset - These are the best features so far. Reduce the need for a separate GPS unit, though you have to get used to the navigation unit's UI. Bluetooth audio and phone are fully integrated, allowing you to listen to your MP3 on your phone and having a call via the mic in front of the driver's window with clarity.
Leather seats - If you opt for luxury edition, the leather seats are comfortable and nice to touch.
Safety - Besides 2 airbags, you also get reinforced body structure designed with safety in mind. From a news, I read that a mobilio was not badly crushed despite rear-ended by a military truck.
https://www.rushlane.com/army-truck-rear-ends-honda-mobilio-rs-12156120.html
Hopefully, that's a good indication. One word of advice though, back seats will be the last row to sit your passengers in a MPV.

Style - This is pretty subjective. Each to his own.
But I like the look of Mobilio, especially the chrome, daylight LED lights and the rims.

What I do not like
Underpowered for full load - The car will move, but don't expect a fast getaway with full load. Take it easy, and go Eco (Economy).
Light plasticity - Feel cheapo...I can only hope it can withstand major wreck
Soundproof - I heard that the door insulation has been improved in Mobilio RS edition. However it needs more that that, as the body metal is fundamentally thin. While the engine is relatively quiet (below 2.5K RPM), you can eavesdrop on the conversation of the pedestrians. I just hoped that they cannot hear mine.


CMYap
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 16-Jul-2015
Size small however useage is very practical  Posted on 09 Jan 2016
spacer
 
spacer
spacer
Comfort 4.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 3.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 5.0
spacer

Review
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.

What I like
Exterior look sporty with LED position light, good engine respon and I never feel under power with the small 1.5L ivtec sohc engine with ECO indicator.
G-Force control technology (G-CON) for driver and pedestrian safety.
Interior room space is good for 7 person and 3rd row of sit's can be individualy incline, road and wind noise is also minimun.
Came with Navigation system (GPS) and Bluetooth Interface.
Audio Aux/ USB Port

What I do not like
Only front 2 Airbags.
No Traction control.


pedrotan
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
2 points
2 forum posts Joined on 18-Aug-2015
Best Value MPV  Posted on 17 Sep 2015
spacer
 
spacer
spacer
Comfort 4.0 Reliability 5.0
Handling 4.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 4.0 Interior Design 3.0
Value for money 4.0 Engine Performance 4.0
spacer

Review
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.

What I like
Sporty outlook, roof-mounted air-conditioning, easy one-touch folding mechanism seat

What I do not like
Interior design, could have make it more sporty like HR-V


Arsener
Neutral Newbie
1 reviews
0 points
0 forum posts Joined on 28-Dec-2011
Spacious MPV yet affordable  Posted on 16 Jul 2015
spacer
 
spacer
spacer
Comfort 4.0 Reliability 4.0
Handling 5.0 Features 3.0
Exterior Styling 5.0 Interior Design 3.0
Value for money 5.0 Engine Performance 5.0
spacer

Review
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.

What I like
The acceleration, the handling when I did a U-turn, the air con vent at the second row, spacious boot space even when the third row seats is fold up and lastly the exterior sporty look. This is one of the most affordable MPVs around in the market now.

What I do not like
No climate Air con control, dashboard is pretty basic looking, third row seats can only be folded up but not flat.

Honda Mobilio
3.5 stars - based on 7 reviews