Japanese car maker Honda recently unveiled its much awaited Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV), Mobilio, in Indonesia. According to analysts, this vehicle could prove to be really successful for the company in Asian markets. Based on the Brio platform, Mobilio gets a longer wheelbase as compared to Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. The designers at Honda have efficiently managed to style its MPV differently from the Brio hatchback. However, the front fascia still reminds of the hatchback but on closely examining Mobilio, significant changes like a wider grille and sportier chin can be adequately seen from images.
As far as design of Mobilio is concerned, a kink in the window line can be seen along with the two upwards cuts at the side portion of the vehicle. The wheel-arches have been flared up to give a sportier quotient to the car. Also to mention, the rear pillar of this car gets a floating design theme, which was formed by using sheet metal and blacked-out glass. With the inclusion of elongated tail lamps, attractive split at the bottom and low lying rear windscreen, Mobilio look quote a bit attractive at rear end. In terms of dimensions, the wheelbase of Mobilio stands at 2650 mm, which is 245 mm longer than Amaze. Owing to this, the MPV of Honda offers greater space for occupants, besides, Mobilio has better height and length as compared to Amaze.
According to industry experts, Honda Mobilio might give stiff competition to its rival Ertiga as soon as it makes debut in the Indian market. As the MPV of Maruti Suzuki is the segment leader in India, Honda would be aiming to cut a sizeable chunk of market share. It must be noted that Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is designed on the platform of Swift and can easily seat 7 passengers. However, it would be interesting to see as to what price Honda Mobilio would carry in India upon its launch as its fiercest rival carries an affordable price tag.
However in Indonesian car market, the MPV of Honda has amassed 5000 advance bookings since its unveiling. As told by company officials, the car has already generated a lot of buzz in the market and representatives are pleased with the good response meted out to the model. The price expected for Honda Mobilio in Indonesia is around Rs. 8.5 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh, when converted into to Indian currency. However, experts believe that the car would be offered from Rs. 7 lakh to Rs. 9 lakh.
In Indonesian, the Honda Mobilio MPV will be offered in three options, namely S, E and E CVT. The upcoming MPV of Honda would be offered in petrol version only. Coming to the engine specifications, it will be equipped with a 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine that also powers Honda City. However, the petrol version would be available in manual and automatic transmission options. For India, Honda is expected to offer petrol and diesel engine options with the latter having a 1.5-litre i-DTEC engine, which will be fitted in the new Honda City. However, uncertainty still looms over the expected launch date of the car in India but sources are citing that the car might make its headway start in the country by mid 2014.
