Honda launches seven-seater Mobilio

The two Mobilio versions are Trend (R179,990) and Comfort (R198,990) and both are linked to a five-speed manual transmission with a CVT option due here in the not too distant future.

Both versions share the same extensive list of safety equipment, the only real difference being the added comfort and convenience features of the higher specced option, plus a price inclusive two-year/30,000km service plan. Both models come with a three-year/100,000km warranty and a one-year AA Roadside Assistance package.

Younger, sportier make-up

Although typically box-shaped like most other family-transporters and mummy-taxis, the Mobilio does have touches of a slightly younger, sportier make-up.
The less-expensive Trend does not fall too far short in the fancies department with nice touches such as colour-coded bumpers front and rear, an integrated rear roof spoiler, three cup holders and four bottle holders, a lidded glovebox, central-locking, electric front and rear windows, height-adjustable headlights, and tilt-adjustable steering wheel.

The pricier Comfort model gains colour-coded door handles and exterior mirrors, mud flaps, a smarter cabin kitted out with chromed air vent rings, metallic finishes for the door handles, gearlever knob and steering wheel accents. The centre stack is fitted with an integrated, MP3-compatible CD receiver that include both USB and auxiliary inputs, as well as audio controls on the steering wheel.

In addition, the Comfort is equipped with air-conditioning (with separate vents for rear occupants), remote central locking, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, a rear screen wiper, and a 12V accessory socket in the centre console for charging personal devices such as mobile phones, tablets and music players.

Highly-flexible seating

But the biggest attraction and selling point of the new Mobilio is its highly-flexible seating, made up in three rows: two individual seats up front, a 60/40 split three-seater bench seat in the centre, and a third seating row with two seats and a 50/50 split backrest.

The second seating row can slide fore and aft, while the backrests can be reclined. A one-touch slide and tumble action ensures easy access to the third row, further augmented by wide-opening rear doors, and a generous door aperture.

The third row also features reclining seatbacks, while the seats can also be folded flat and tumbled forward - useful when additional luggage space is required. The seats are upholstered in durable black cloth upholstery.

Good spread of safety features

Honda has always produced vehicles with a good spread of safety features and the Mobilio is armed with ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution, dual front airbags, front inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for front occupants, inertia reel seatbelts for the two outer second-row passengers and both third-row occupants, and a lap belt for the second-row middle passenger. Head restraints are standard for all seating positions.

The new Honda Mobilio is available in Brilliant Gold Metallic, Taffeta White, Majestic Blue Metallic, Carnelian Red Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Urban Titanium Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.