2014 Honda Mobilio review, test drive

Honda's upcoming Mobilio MPV will take on the Maruti Ertiga. Is it a worthy challenger that can take the segment by storm?

Published on Jun 20, 2014 05:30:00 PM

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Honda Mobilio MPV.

The Mobilio, however, looks the most attractive from the rear. The wider base, attractive wrap-around rear windscreen and ‘floating’ D pillar work so well together, they even help hide the big rear overhang nicely. Completing the look are the larger 15-inch wheels that help give the car a more planted stance. What’s also inescapable is the sheer size of the thing, especially considering this car is built on the same platform as the Brio. It is a full 776mm longer than the hatch at 4.4 metres long and the 2,650mm wheelbase is substantially larger than that of the Amaze. The challenge with such a long wheelbase, of course, is rigidity, but Honda says it’s paid particular attention to this. What’s interesting, however, is that unlike cars like the Maruti Ertiga (built on an even longer 2,740mm wheelbase), the Mobilio does not have strengthening ribs on the roof. A more roll-resistant suspension setup and more powerful brakes make up the rest of the technical upgrade for this car. The good news is that anti-lock brakes could be standard on all models in India.

Equally impressive are the spacious interiors. MPVs are all about space, and Honda, master of packaging, has managed to eke out every cubic centimetre. The two key features that make a huge difference are the slim line seats and the packed-close-to-windscreen dash. Space on the inside, as a result, is not too different from that of the Ertiga, despite the Honda having a smaller wheelbase. There’s plenty of room up front for even extra large-sized adults and legroom in the rear is surplus as well. This is especially true if the second-row seats have been taken all the way back on their rails and reclined; yes, these seats give you almost the same amount of flexibility as captain chairs. Thigh and back support on the second row is also pretty good. The third row, however, isn’t as comfortable as the Ertiga’s. Stepping in is easy enough due to the big rear doors, but the seat is placed a bit low, so you sit with your knees up.