Buyers in the hotly-contested entry level market are set to become even more spoiled for choice in December when Honda launches its Brio hatchback.
While Honda hasn't officially announced the pricing or specification levels, we recently came across a dealer advert showing the base price and after making an enquiry, we can now tell you what it costs and what it has to offer.
PRICING
1.2 Comfort manual - R119 800
1.2 Comfort automatic - R129 800
Prices include a two-year/30 000km service plan and a decent array of standard features. These include air conditioning, remote central locking, electric windows and mirrors and a USB/Aux audio system linked to controls on the height-adjustable steering wheel. On the safety front dual front airbags and ABS brakes are fitted.
Considering the car's size, performance should be rather decent as the Brio is fitted with a 1.2-litre 16-valve i-VTEC engine credited with 65kW at 6000rpm and 109Nm at 4500rpm.
The Brio is imported from India and will arrive in local showrooms in early December.
ALTERNATIVES
Hyundai i10 1.25 Fluid - R116 900
Kia Picanto 1.2 EX - R124 995
Chevrolet Spark 1.2 L - R109 100
Nissan Micra 1.2 Visia+ - R124 775
Toyota Aygo 1.0 Fresh - R118 100