Living in Metro Manila means navigating a daily symphony of gridlocked traffic, tight parking spots, and ever-changing road conditions. So when I got behind the wheel of the Honda BR-V S, I set out to test it in every real-world scenario—from weekday commutes through congested avenues to weekend errands and spontaneous out-of-town drives.
After a full week of living with it, I get it. The BR-V isn’t just Honda Philippines’ best-selling model—it’s a seamless extension of urban life. It’s not merely a vehicle; it’s a dependable companion that adapts to the rhythm of the city and the unpredictability of the road.
The second-generation Honda BR-V (chassis code: DG3) has earned its place at the top of the sales charts for good reason. More than just a collection of specs on paper, it’s a thoughtfully engineered subcompact crossover SUV that feels perfectly tuned to the chaos and charm of Philippine driving. From its nimble handling to its practical layout, the BR-V proves that success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about how a car makes you feel behind the wheel.
Designed for the Filipino Roadscape
The BR-V slots into the ever-popular subcompact crossover segment, a category tailor-made for Filipino families. With three-row seating, generous ground clearance, and a fuel-sipping 1.5-liter engine, it checks all the boxes for urban and provincial driving alike. Whether you’re navigating EDSA’s bumper-to-bumper grind or cruising through winding provincial highways, the BR-V feels composed and capable.
Honda’s second-gen BR-V trades the edgy, Odyssey-inspired look of its predecessor for a more traditional SUV silhouette. It’s a cleaner, more mature design that blends in with modern traffic but still manages to stand out with its bold grille and LED DRLs. Available in three trims—S, V, and VX—the BR-V offers options for every budget and need.
Bigger Footprint, Better Comfort
At 4,490mm long, 1,780mm wide, and 1,685mm tall, the new BR-V is slightly larger than the outgoing model. The 2,700mm wheelbase translates to more legroom and a smoother ride—especially noticeable when crossing uneven roads or tackling long drives. Interestingly, despite its larger dimensions, the new BR-V appears more compact visually, likely due to the sleeker glass-to-body ratio.
Powertrain That Balances Efficiency and Ease
Under the hood lies the updated L15ZF engine—a DOHC version of Honda’s trusted 1.5-liter i-VTEC. It produces 119 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, modest gains over the previous generation. Paired with either a 6-speed manual (S variant) or a CVT (available across all trims), the BR-V delivers a driving experience that’s smooth, predictable, and refreshingly light on fuel.
We tested the V variant with the CVT, and while it won’t thrill performance enthusiasts, it excels in what matters most: seamless city driving. Acceleration is linear, gear transitions are buttery, and the engine never feels strained—even when fully loaded.
Driving Feel: Nimble, Confident, and Surprisingly Refined
Driving the BR-V through Metro Manila’s urban maze is a pleasant surprise. The electric power steering is feather-light at low speeds, making U-turns and tight parking maneuvers effortless. The suspension strikes a fine balance—firm enough to feel planted on highways yet forgiving over potholes and speed bumps. The elevated driving position and 207mm ground clearance give you a commanding view of the road, boosting confidence in unpredictable traffic.
On provincial roads, the BR-V remains composed. It absorbs road imperfections with grace, and the cabin stays quiet enough for conversations or music. The CVT doesn’t hunt for gears, and throttle response is tuned for comfort rather than urgency—ideal for relaxed cruising or family trips.
Practicality That Goes Beyond the Commute
Inside, the BR-V sports an all-black cabin theme, including the headliner, which adds a touch of understated elegance. Cloth seats across all rows (in higher trims) elevate the experience, and the flexible 7-seater layout adapts to whatever life throws at you—be it groceries, balikbayan boxes, or camping gear.
Fold down the third row and you get up to 530 liters of cargo space. Add roof rails, and you’ve got a weekend warrior ready for road trips, beach runs, or mountain adventures.
The Honda BR-V S variant comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via wired connection. This feature brings everyday convenience to your fingertips—whether you’re navigating through traffic, streaming music, or staying connected on the go.
What makes it even more appealing is that you don’t have to splurge on a high-end vehicle just to enjoy these essential tech features. It’s a practical solution for daily commutes and long drives alike, offering modern connectivity without breaking the bank.
Why the BR-V Is a Filipino Favorite
- 7-seater versatility: Perfect for families, barkadas, or carpooling.
- Fuel-efficient 1.5L engine: Great mileage even in stop-and-go traffic.
- Affordable pricing: Value-packed without compromising essentials.
- Honda reliability: Proven durability and low maintenance costs.
- Stylish yet practical design: LED DRLs, bold grille, and SUV stance.
- Safety features: Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX anchors.
A Few Trade-Offs
- Interior in base S variant: Functional but lacks premium touches.
- Infotainment limitations: No touchscreen or smartphone integration in lower trims.
- Modest engine output: Tuned for efficiency, not spirited driving.
Final Thoughts: A Daily Driver That Understands You
The Honda BR-V isn’t trying to be a luxury SUV or a performance machine—it’s built to be a dependable companion for everyday life. Whether you’re navigating the urban jungle, hauling family and cargo, or escaping the city for a weekend getaway, the BR-V adapts with ease. It’s not just a best-seller—it’s a reflection of how Filipinos move, live, and drive.