At P742,000 (price as tested), the 2019 Honda Brio RS Blacktop is quite loaded with features. As someone who’s always on the road, I can attest that these features that the Brio comes with are the ones that really matter – things that I guarantee you’ll be using every day.
But, of course, there will be some quirks and shortcomings, which you’ll learn in this up-close look at the 2019 Brio’s technology and safety review.
Related: 2019 Honda Brio Review
Technology: Ticking the right boxes
What’s included: speed-sensing door locks, auto up/down driver’s window, comprehensive trip and fuel consumption meter, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, power-folding mirrors, and a 7-inch infotainment system with six speakers, Bluetooth, and USB port (for iPod connectivity).
The RS variant gets all the goodies, though, as the lower V variant gets fewer speakers while the S variant loses the steering wheel-mounted audio controls and touchscreen infotainment. Not a bad deal for at least P79,000 less from the RS variants’ price tags.
What you won’t like: vanilla speakers, no Apple Carplay/Android Auto, missing volume knob
For the Brio’s downside, the 6-speaker setup is okay for the most part (meaning, pop music) but more complex music would sound muffled even with after tweaking the preset equalizer. There's no volume knob, though, so you would need to get used to touchscreen controls or through the steering wheel audio controls. Plus, conversations through handsfree Bluetooth connection aren't as clear as day, but at least smartphone integration is constant, automatic, and undisrupted.
Also, if you’re among those who already got used to using Apple Carplay and Android Auto, don’t expect the Brio to have the same feature even with its range-topper.
Safety: Something’s missing
What’s included: dual SRS airbags, seatbelt reminders for the front occupants, immobilizer, security alarm, and four five-point seatbelts.
The Honda Brio gets pretty much the same set of safety features for the whole range, except for the S variant that doesn’t have a security alarm. These safety features are at par with the standard in the small hatchback class, but I really wish that there are ISOFIX tethers for those who need it. Plus, the middle rear passenger has to make do with a lap belt – that’s bad news in case of a head-on collision.
Specifications
Engine
1.2 LFuel Type
GasolinePerformance
89 hp @ 6,000 rpmTransmission
CVT-
Summary
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Name Honda Brio 1.2 RS Black Top CVT Body Type Hatchback Price ₱838,000 Transmission Category CVT -
Engine
-
Engine Size 1.2 L Displacement 1,199 cc Number of Cylinders 4 Number of Valves 16 Transmission Type Earth Dreams CVT -
Performance
-
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive Max Output (hp) 89 hp @ 6,000 rpm Max Torque (nm) 110 Nm @ 4,800 rpm *estimated -
Economy & Environment
-
Fuel Type Gasoline Emissions Standard n/a Fuel Capacity 35.0 L Combined Fuel Consumption 6.5 km/L *estimated -
Dimensions
-
Length 3,815 mm Width 1,680 mm Height 1,485 mm Wheelbase 2,405 mm Turning Circle 9 m Ground Clearance 137 mm Trunk Capacity 258 L Number of Doors 5 Number of Seats 5 -
Safety & Security
-
Driver's Airbag Front Passenger's Airbag Side Airbags Curtain Airbags Knee Airbag Auto Brake System Electronic Brake Distribution Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) With Electronic Brake Force Distribution
Immobilizer Security Alarm Stability Control Electronic Door Locks Speed Sensing Door Locks ISOFIX Lane Departure Warning System Blind-Spot Detection System -
Features
-
Cruise Control Front Parking Sensors Rear Parking Sensors Leather Upholstery Push Start Button Wheel Size 15 in Wheels Metal Type RS Design Alloy Airconditioning System Manual Air Conditioning Entertainment System 7-inch Capacitive Touchscreen Audio with Bluetooth, Audio Streaming, and USB via 6 speakers Connectivity Bluetooth, USB Navigation Ready Warranty 3 Years (100,000 km) Keyless Entry Roof Rack Sunroof Electric Adjustable Seats Power Steering Power Windows Power Outlet Steering Wheel Audio Control -
Technology
-
Active Park Assist Hill Start Assist AWD Modes n/a Tire Pressure Monitoring Heads-up Display Power Liftgate Start-stop System
Colors
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