Bucket Seat: Honda FIT Hybrid e-CVT

Honda, although a house-hold name around the world and locally often gets overshadowed by it's Japanese counterpart, I mean rightfully so if you take a look at the NAMSA sales stats for the past 20 years. That's not to say Honda isn't good, it's just that they're different, their cars are made for a different target market, while the one aims for large volume of sales, Honda aims more for quality of product which is why their products tend to have a higher price tag than most. Of recent, the brand has undergone some changes in their cars line-up's with an interesting take on the design language, this transcends onto the interior as well with the cabins getting a more premium feel with better quality materials and ergonomic design making it look modern but with a slight retro touch. The FIT, which I drove when launched 2 years ago really impressed me, hence with the Hybrid model was introduced to the market this year, I was itching to get my hands on it to see how it fared against its Japanese cousins who, in my personal opinion have mastered the technology, so here's my take on Honda's car. 

DESIGN

The 2024 Honda Fit Hybrid’s design maintains the Fit’s signature boxy, compact look, maximizing interior space while staying highly maneuverable. The latest model has adopted a more streamlined, modern appearance with updated LED headlights, a refined front grille, and stylish yet subtle lines along the body. The shape is highly functional, designed to reduce drag and enhance fuel efficiency, while details like aerodynamic mirrors and underbody covers also contribute to the model’s low wind resistance. Colors are typically vibrant yet restrained, with options like Opal White, Lunar Silver, Platinum White, Rose Gold and the colour which I had on test, Crystal Red. 

PERFORMANCE

The Honda Fit Hybrid features Honda's e:HEV hybrid system, which combines a 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine with two electric motors. The result is a combined power output of approximately 90Kw and 253 Nm of torque, providing ample power for urban driving and light highway cruising.The Fit Hybrid operates primarily as an electric vehicle at lower speeds, switching to hybrid mode when more power is needed. At high speeds, the petrol engine takes over for maximum efficiency. This smart system allows the Fit Hybrid to achieve impressive fuel economy.  Unlike traditional transmissions, the Fit Hybrid uses an electronic CVT that minimizes fuel consumption and smoothens the driving experience by matching power output to demand without noticeable shifts.In real-world conditions, drivers can expect to average under 5L per 100km depending on driving habits and road conditions, but Honda claiming 3.7L per 100km which I think is achievable on urban runs. I did take this on a long distance journey thinking I'd get close to 800km on the 40L tank but I think a combination of aggressive driving and not ideal road conditions made me miss this mark by about 120km. The range did seem to drastically drop since showing 100km of range left, so not sure if it's just Honda's way of being extra cautious or it was really dropping that way, either way I had to do some driving on range 0km before making it to a fuel station to fill up. 

COMFORT

Honda has maximized the interior space with the Fit Hybrid’s Magic Seat system, allowing for flexible configurations. The seats can be arranged in Utility Mode, Tall Mode, Long Mode, and Refresh Mode, enabling storage for larger items or creating extra passenger space as needed. As mentioned earlier, the quality of materials has definitely gotten an upgrade, soft-touch materials and well-padded seats offer comfort for long drives. The seats themselves are ergonomic, providing good support, and the available leather trim enhances the premium feel. The Fit’s tall roofline provides excellent headroom for both front and rear passengers, while legroom is ample given the car’s compact size. Cargo space is substantial, with 470 liters available with the seats up, and up to 1,145 liters when the rear seats are folded.Honda equips the Fit Hybrid with modern tech, even at entry-level trims. Features like an infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen standard, offering smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models feature Bluetooth, USB ports, and an auxiliary input. Honda's app integration and touchscreen interface are user-friendly, it also has wireless charging. On the highway, the Fit Hybrid is stable and composed, though the engine can be noisy when pushed hard. However, it handles road imperfections well, with suspension tuned for a balanced ride. The overall experience is smooth, efficient, and comfortable for both short commutes and longer trip 

VERDICT

The Honda Fit Hybrid is a practical, versatile, and highly efficient hatchback ideal for drivers seeking a fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicle without compromising on space and flexibility. It’s particularly well-suited for city dwellers who appreciate compact cars with advanced safety features and versatile interiors. While it may lack the acceleration of some rivals, its balanced ride, ease of use, and standout fuel economy make it a solid choice for daily commuting and light family use. The price point of this car is one that stands out, for what you're paying, it's Japanese competitor offers bigger and cheaper alternatives in their hybrid range, while in the Honda you are getting more features in-terms of tech and safety, I'm not sure if it would be enough to persuade the buyer who is more worried about his pocket than nice to haves. 

 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L i-MMD Hybrid
Gear Box	eCVT Automatic
Torque	253Nm
Power	90kW
Fuel Consumption	3.7L per 100km
Price	R544,900

Bucket Seat: Honda Civic Type R

With a heritage that stretches back some 30 years, Honda’s Type R models have always been the embodiment of performance and refinement, providing an exhilarating driving experience bar none. This legendary tradition of building cars for the true enthusiast is now being taken to the next level with the introduction of the All-New 2023 Civic Type R, the most powerful Honda production vehicle ever to reach South African shores. 

"Type R is the pinnacle of Honda performance and enables enthusiasts to experience the brand’s racing spirit, while providing the ultimate in speed and driving pleasure,” said Hideki Kakinuma, global Civic Type R development leader. “The All-New Civic Type R continues this legacy, leveraging Honda’s racetrack-proven engineering to deliver extreme performance and passion." 

Exhilarating performance

The All-New Civic Type R is the sixth iteration of this exciting model, which was first introduced in Japan in 1997. Since then, the Type R has become the epitome of performance excellence and the 2023 model recently set a new track record for front-wheel drive production-cars at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan, home to the Formula 1 Honda Japanese Grand Prix. 

This was no fluke though. Honda engineers meticulously conducted extensive development in Japan, and undertook rigorous testing at racetracks in Japan, North America and Europe to further improve Civic Type R’s chassis. The result is more responsiveness, greater comfort and a more thrilling driving experience than ever before.

Under the vented aluminium bonnet of the All-New Civic Type R lurks an even more powerful version of Honda’s award-winning K20C1 engine. Output, torque and response have all been improved by a redesigned turbocharger, increased air intake flow rate, and a new more efficient exhaust system. The turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinger engine now produces 235kW at 6 500 r/min and 420Nm of peak torque between 2 600 r/min and 4 000 r/min, gaining improvements of 7Kw and 20 Nm over the outgoing model.

A larger grille opening, bigger radiator and a new large-diameter fan improve engine cooling, ensuring sustained, optimal performance during extreme driving. To further strengthen the driver’s connection with the car, the active exhaust valve opens at higher rpm to heighten and enhance the sound of the engine.

Linked to this impressive powerplant is an equally impressive and improved six-speed manual transmission that offers an even more intimate and rewarding connection with the driver. A lighter flywheel and a revised rev-match system ensure perfectly paired rev-matching when shifting down through the gears, helping to maintain stability on corner entry. The gearbox has also gained a high-rigidity lever and optimised shift gate pattern, while a standard helical-type limited-slip differential puts the engine's power to the pavement effectively.

Honda has bolstered the Civic Type R’s legendary sharp responses through a more rigid body structure that supports both improved dynamics and refinement. Furthermore, the wheelbase has been extended by 36mm to 2 735mm for a smoother ride and greater stability, making this the longest wheelbase in its class.

Its front and rear tracks are also significantly wider (+26mm in the front and +25mm in the rear). Together with a retuned dual-axis strut front and multilink rear suspension, these changes improve straight-line stability and steering feel. For exceptional braking performance, Type R’s two-piece front brake rotors reduce unsprung weight. At the same time brake cooling is also improved, while a retuned brake booster enhances feel and controllability. 

Ensuring a high level of customisation of the overall driving experience, drivers can seamlessly switch between four pre-set performance settings – Comfort, Sport, +R and a new Individual Mode – to alter the characteristics of the engine, steering, suspension and even engine sound. 

Sleek and sporty design

It’s not only under the bonnet that the All-New Civic Type R is a pure performance beast. It looks the part too. Advanced aerodynamics give it a sleeker, more sophisticated, yet muscular look. The body is also more aerodynamically efficient, generating more downforce for improved high-speed stability. 

The Type R’s new, more muscular body is 37mm longer, 27mm lower and 13mm wider than that of its predecessor, with broad fenders flared out over wider tracks, and lightweight 19-inch matte black alloy wheels wrapped in wider bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. The new wheels use a special “reverse rim" design that improves the stability of the tyre contact patch under load. The overall visual effect is one that exudes pure sportiness, performance and style.

Taking the refinement and performance-focused persona even further, all body panels forward of the A-pillars are new and unique to the Type R, including a more aggressive front bumper design. Its lower stance is accentuated by wider rear doors and a reshaped rear bumper that reveals its updated signature three round exhaust outlets. A redesigned rear spoiler with aluminium stanchions and a new rear diffuser intensify downforce and reduce drag to further impart the All-New Type R with true performance credentials. 

Befitting its sporty styling, the All-New Type R is available in five striking body colours: Championship White, Rallye Red, Racing Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl and Sonic Grey Pearl.

Exclusive and driver-focused interior

The cabin of the All-New Civic Type R enhances the exhilaration of driving with emotive, performance-focused details and features that set it apart from the crowd. This includes exclusive red seats, carpet and trim, a redesigned and decidedly sporty-looking aluminum shift knob, and a Type R plate on the dash.

The driver and front passenger sit lower than before in new, lightweight, heavily bolstered sports seats with suede-effect upholstery, offering exceptional support and comfort on the track and during long drives. However, good visibility is ensured through the use of thinner pillars, relocated side mirrors, and a lower bonnet. 

To better support performance driving, the Type R’s exclusive new 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster features clean, easy-to-read graphics and an extensive selection of displays. A second new meter design is exclusive to the Type R’s +R mode and allows the driver to obtain necessary information instantly, with the engine rpm, and gear position placed at the top. A racing-inspired illuminated rev indicator located above the gauge cluster gives the driver a quick indication of engine rpm during performance driving.

Technology has been smartly integrated into the All-New Civic Type R’s cabin, all focused on an enhanced and exhilarating experience for the driver. This includes a new 9-inch colour touchscreen – the largest touchscreen ever in a Type R – with Android Auto™ and wireless Apple CarPlay® compatibility. Qi-compatible wireless charging and a Bose Centerpoint premium sound system, which was custom-engineered for the interior of the 11th-generation Civic, are also standard.

A new and enhanced version of the trendsetting Honda LogR® Performance Datalogger combines the Type R’s onboard computer and sensors with a new built-in vehicle app. This helps the driver to monitor and record a variety of performance parameters in real time when driving on the track or other closed courses. 

Honda LogR® no longer requires a smartphone app, so drivers can use the on-board system to gain access to key features such a stopwatch to record lap times, a tyre friction circle in 3D motion that displays the maximum tyre force the vehicle can achieve, and an innovative scoring function that helps drivers improve their skills on the track.

Impressive safety credentials

The All-New Civic Type R incorporates boasts an extensive suite of premium active and passive safety technologies designed to make driving both easier and safer.

In addition to Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure technology, the All-New Civic Type R also features enhanced Honda SENSING active safety technology, offering a broad range of driver assistance features and driver aids as standard. This system incorporates the newly developed wider-angle, higher-definition front camera that is able to detect a more comprehensive range of road surfaces and traffic characteristics, including enhanced night-time operation.

The enhanced Honda SENSING suite of technologies includes:

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)

Auto High-Beam (AHB)

As befitting a vehicle with such impeccable performance credentials, numerous safety features are included as standard in the All-new Civic Type R. It goes without saying that a full complement of airbags including new front knee airbags, as well as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Anti‑lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Auto Brake Hold (ABH), Agile Handle Assist (AHA) and Driver Attention Monitor are part of the package. 

Price: R979,000

Bucket Seat: Honda BR-V

In September this year I attended the official launch of the new Honda BR-V in the Western Cape, it was a fun day out with the team from Honda SA as we got to sample the second generation of this much loved model in the country. The model had grown in statue compared to its previous model but also came loaded with a lot tech and safety features normally reserved for higher end models. At the launch I gravitated to a particular model and drove that for the day, little did I know what an attachment the car would have to me, as after the launch I decided to spend a few extra days in the Cape and Honda SA allowed me to keep a car with me for the duration of my stay, low and behold when I went to the parking lot, I noticed it was the same car I drove that day on the launch. After flying back to Durban and spending a few weeks at home, I get a message that I'd be getting a BR-V to test for the week. Having just driven one a few weeks ago, I thought it would be nice to refresh my memory with one for the review. When the car got delivered, it seemed awfully familiar, low and behold it was the exact same car I drove at the launch, the same car I spent the weekend in whilst in Cape Town and now its followed me to Durban. As funny as that was, its time for the actual review of the car. 

DESIGN

Being a 7-seater MPV, the BR-V has quite an attractive design, with modern lines and sharp features keeping in line with the Honda design language. The overall body shape is indicative to that of most MPVs but has a wider stance than most and also an increased ride height making it seem more of a crossover come SUV rather than an MPV. The lines are clean with a modern twist and the headlights have clear covers exposing the details in the headlamps with the straight styled rear lights similar to the Ballade and new Civic. The additions of the brushed aluminum finish scuff plates in the front, rear and side add to the SUV rugged look on the BR-V, making it look more menacing than it actually is. The new straight grille is pretty eye catching and the way the headlamps expand from it gives the car that classy European look. The car comes with 16-inch bicolour rims which really do make the car stand out. The interior received and overhaul with it getting some nice tech updates include a large touch screen radio which I will touch on later as well as some improved material selections. The design of the interior is roomy and spacious making it a great cabin for large groups, which is why it would be popular with the Uber and Taxi industry. 

PERFORMANCE

The BR-V is powered by that same Honda 1.5-litre naturally aspirated DOHC i-Vtec engine, yes that one. While many have gripes with this motor, claiming its under powered as it produces only 89kW and 145Nm of torque, one would agree that a car which can seat 7-adults would need more oomph but I actually don't have an issue, my issue comes with the gearbox, the automatic CVT transmission does the car no favours and I can't for the life of me figure out why manufacturers are sticking to this technology. It doesn't help with the average fuel consumption because people are ending up dropping gears to get more power which in-turn uses more fuel. I didn't get to sample the manual option at the launch but I'm sure that fairs much better in performance and in average fuel consumption. It does however give a smooth ride but there is no escaping that engine groan in the cabin when you trying to accelerate. 

COMFORT

The BR-V as mentioned, is a 7-seater MPV with the it having a nice spacious cabin comfortable for 5 adults in the front two rows and squeezing in two more in the third row seats. The seats, while not covered in genuine leather are very comfortable and the material feels premium and durable, so no nasty stains will left on these seats. The car has single zone climate control which the controls are located in the center of the console, with button controls. The BR-V comes with a large TFT touch screen infotainment unit which has an easy to interface and has preloaded mobile apps which can be connected via USB cable. The car is packed with safety features which include Honda SENSING Driver Assist technology, this is a broad range of driver assistance features and driver aids to help protect the driver and its occupants. Honda SENSING includes collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, auto high-beam and lane keeping assist. These features are normally found on high-end models from Europe, so to be getting these in a lower end MPV is just brilliant, not forgetting a reverse camera to check your rear while reversing into any spots. 

VERDICT

Overall, while the BR-V might have some quips, it is genuinely a great package put together from the Japanese manufacturer. The car delivers in most aspects and over exceeds in others. The drive was great when in urban areas and given the what the general use of a car like this would be for locals, it does the job without any hassle. While it does feel a bit more premium than most of it's competitors, it does force them to be more proactive in including more safety offerings in their cars. The car looks great and drives well, for the target market this could be the benchmark for the segment and given Honda's great reliability and service, it has the potential to be one of their best selling models in the coming years. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC
Gear Box	CVT
Torque	145Nm
Power	89kW
Fuel economy	6.3L/ 100km/h
Price	R434,900*

*Comfort CVT model

 

Bucket Seat: Honda H-RV 1.5 Executive

When it comes to Japanese car manufacturers, reliability is the key word that rings out and with good reason. Most cars that come out of Japan are bulletproof and the two biggest brands being Toyota and Honda have grown quite a cult following over the years. While the cars were pretty solid in terms of build quality and reliability, there was that perception of them being bland and boring. It is true, there was nothing exciting about the cars coming out of Japan, while there were select few one off models, the rest of the line-ups were not much to look at but still maintained steady sales because of the brand heritage. Over the past two years, Toyota have picked up on this and have really made great strides into changing their philosophy and have produced great cars since, with the further introduction of new models and brands into 2023. What about Honda though? The tag line reads power of dreams but other than the Civic Type-R, nothing else in their model line-up screams it. Well, to their credit they have been working behind the scenes have slowly released some of their new models that encapsulates their direction of their new design philosophy and I must say, while they may not be drastic in design they've certainly upped their game in other departments. I first got to sample this with their new Ballade last year before spinning around in the new FIT (ex Jazz), a few weeks ago I had the new H-RV on test and I was blown away with this car, which I'll explain in my review. 

DESIGN

Fresh new face to the H-RV and change in the overall body shape, moving away from that bubble like chassis to a more straight and square look. The front is fierce and commanding with the colour coded grille being the main feature with a chrome bar that extends to the new front headlamps which has an LED day-time running lamp that follows the contours of the bar. It's a very clean finish with very little folds and creases as it runs down to the mesh radiator cooler with LED fog lamps on either side. I had the Executive model on test which came with 18-inch black alloy wheels, the Comfort model features 17-inch alloy wheels. The side profile is pretty attractive with that sharp slanted tailgate line giving off the crossover coupe vibe and the rear design is finished very elegantly and sport with the solid bar light that runs across with tear dropped styled rear LED lights which wrap around the side. Almost looking like the Porsche Macan. If you think Honda knocked it out the park with the exterior design, wait till you jump on inside, okay look it's nothing extravagant but the look they trying to achieve was clean, minimalistic and modern, they've certainly nailed it in my opinion with everything so well laid out and the finishes made me weirdly excited to sit inside and touch everything. It's hard to explain and something you just need to experience, the attention to detail is immaculate, only something the Japanese could perfect, everything from the quality of the plastics to the frosted screen coverings for the aircon controls was impeccable. 

PERFORMANCE

Here's where I might get shot for hyping this car so much, the H-RV is powered by a 1.5-litre Chain Driven DOHC i-VTEC motor which produces 89kW and 145Nm of torque. Hardly much to write home about, and I you must be thinking I'm going to drop the "but its not meant for performance, its meant for cruising" line but my God this thing can be frustrating when trying to pick up speed. The CVT gearbox does it no favours at all and while there is a "S" sport gear and paddle shift, which does improve performance ever so slightly, it does sky rocket your average consumption, which with todays fuel price won't be very healthy on your bank balance. Honda claim an average combined fuel economy of 6L per 100km but I was averaging around 8 with my heavy foot. But look, if you not in a rush, the H-RV is superb, with well timed gear shifts, a smooth acceleration, brilliant ride comfort and great handling and steering with minimal body roll. It's not meant to be an old persons type of car but it serves as a brilliant city car and that is what I loved about it. 

COMFORT

Apart from the great interior design, quality of materials used, the H-RV is extremely comfortable. The front seats are ergonomically designed for good posture and great comfort. Both front seats were electrically adjustable which was a nice surprise. They front occupants also get dual zone climate control as well as heated leather seats. The 8-inch infotainment touch screen has an easy to use interface and has plug and play mobile application integration. The head unit for the screen was a bit odd, with it flowing into the dash like a 1980's tube television. Not sure why Honda opted for this vs the floating tablet finish is an odd one but I suppose it works and makes the screen more secure. Another odd one was the placements of the USB ports which were mid-dash above the separation from wireless charging mat, with the mobile application only being a hardwired connection, it made it a bit cumbersome to have wires dangling around and ruined the aesthetics of the great interior design. The car comes with a split panoramic glass roof which I found out doesn't open, it was a bit of a bummer but at the same time I am not a massive fan of driving around with the sunroof open but rather just the curtain, so this worked out well for me. The rear passengers get to enjoy the same quality seats but what surprised me the most was the amount of leg room they had at the back! I'm a tall guy and with my seat properly adjusted to suit my height, there was still ample amount of space in the back for the passenger to lounge behind me! The luggage compartment is a decent size, coming in at 304L but with the rear seats folded down, this extends to 956L. The tail gate is power operated and can be opened with the key. 

VERDICT

Overall, the H-RV left a great impression on me, so much so I am actually thinking of adding one to my garage. The price tag is a bit of a stinger but seeing that Honda hasn't messed about with the quality of product they got here, I can sort of understand why it is what it is. There is a loads on offer with the car and after spending a week with it, I was smitten with it. Even for a person like me, who likes to zip around quite fast, I found my self sitting in the middle lane of the highway, cruising along listening to some great music and enjoying the drive home or to the office office. As with all Honda's, the safety features are in abundance with it having ABS, EBA, VSA, Lane Watch, Driver attention monitor, tyre pressure monitor, High beam assist, Active cornering lights and the list goes on. It's a practical family car, perfectly suited for small to medium families. Certainly a car that won me over with it's charm. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine	1.5L DOHC i-VTEC
Gear Box	CVT
Torque	145Nm
Power	89kW
Fuel economy	6L/ 100km/h
Price	R554,500