Honda India, the domestic division of Japanese auto maker, seems to be preparing for the launch of Brio Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) in the country. Sources close to the development process stated that the upcoming model will be based on the manufacturing platform of Brio hatchback, which has also given birth to the company's entry level sedan Amaze. The fact becomes even more stronger with the news that the auto maker has started accepting bookings for Brio MPV in the Indonesian auto market.
Sources further revealed that the model will be showcased at the 2013 Indonesia International Motor Show, which is scheduled to take place somewhere in mid-September. This low cost family van from Honda has been designed by company's P.T Honda R&D Indonesia and R&D Asia Pacific team in Thailand. On the international platform, the upcoming Honda Brio MPV is expected to square off against the likes of Toyota Avanza, Suzuki Ertiga and Chevrolet Spin.
The authorised dealers of Honda are offering a scheme under which interested buyers can book the model by paying around 5 million Indonesian Rupiah, close Rs. 29,600. However, it must be noted that the technical specifications and exact price of the model have not been announced by Honda. In India, the model is expected to be priced close to Rs. 7 lakh, which will make it compete with the models like Mahindra Quanto, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and Ford EcoSport, among others.
It must be noted that the sketches of Brio MPV were officially revealed on the Internet in July 2013, before its official debut at the 2013 IIMS. Sources further revealed that the model will feature a ground clearance of 185 mm, which is said to be best in class. Also, Brio MPV is expected to come equipped with a performance oriented 1500 cc engine, which will have a decent output. The production of Honda's upcoming model is expected to commence from early 2014 at its plant in Karawang, West Java. Interestingly, Honda has enrolled its Brio MPV in the ASEAN NCAP crash test program, which will give its customers an assurance of the safety features.
Industry experts are of a view that after making its debut at the 2013 IIMS, Honda will route its Brio MPV towards the 2014 New Delhi Auto Expo, which is scheduled to be organised in the month of February at Greater Noida. However, nothing is confirmed as of now as the Indian auto market is going through its one of the unfavourable times.
