Honda, the Japanese auto giant, is all geared up to enter the Multi Utility Vehicle (MUV) segment of Indian auto market with the launch of Mobilio, a 7-seater passenger car. Built on Brio platform, Mobilio is being awaited in the domestic vehicle market with huge expectations and the car is expected to premier at the Auto Expo 2014 commencing in February. The car will be available in both diesel and petrol variants and is believed to strengthen the market and customer base of Honda in the Indian auto industry.
Honda Mobilio is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol and 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine options, with the former capable of generating a power output of 116 bhp and a peak torque of 146 Nm at 4800 rpm. The diesel variant on the other hand has a 4-cylinder DOHC mill, which is likely to feature a potential of churning out 98 bhp with maximum torque of 200 Nm. Both variants are melded with a 5-speed manual transmission and McPherson strut suspension system for a smooth ride.
At exteriors, the car might just baffle the onlooker with its design almost similar to that of Honda Brio and Amaze. But once contemplated, the car will offer a refreshing look unlike the models on which it is based. The front grille of Mobilio is elongated, reaching till the headlights and wrapped in chrome. Sideways, the car flaunts a unique artistry, with the body panel chiselled and reaching to the back. The flares on the side emulsify into the rear windscreen with the back window pane clasping the tail lights.
The outward complexion is dynamic and pleases the eyes of onlooker. Somehow it feels that the car is designed without any flaw. Interiors are as impeccable as the outer skin and the car is partitioned into three sections, all capacious enough to carry a full number of 7 passengers. The abundant space inside comes from the extended wheelbase of the car which is 245 mm more than that of Amaze. Mobilio comes with a 60:40 ratio recline seats in the middle row and roof mounted air cooling vents, provided for the middle and the last row. The car is designed with precision, keeping in mind the practicality of modern day and commercial usage.
With its launch, Mobilio is expected to face stiff competition from the likes of Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster, which are currently ruling the respective segment. The former, however, has not made a good impact on the Indian automobile market but Ford and Renault has grabbed awards and accolades with their performances in the utility vehicle segment. It is believed that Mobilio will come within a price range of Rs. 6.50 lakh to Rs. 9 lakh and with such a lofty price tag, the domestic buyers are not short of selection when it comes to shedding bucks. It will be really interesting to see that how the Japanese auto maker publicises its new venture and makes an impact on the Indian car market.
