
🚗 Searching for Fit’s Lost Sibling: Brio and Brio Amaze

Original: Honda Magazine | Japanese Car Enthusiast Magazine | October 24, 202024, 11:00



In China, the Honda Fit (Jazz) is often regarded as the "limit of acceptable small cars." Some local auto media even mistakenly classify it as an “A-segment” vehicle. However, this classification raises eyebrows: is the Fit really an A-segment car? European classification places the Fit firmly in the B-segment, similar to the Volkswagen Polo. In Europe, microcars like the Smart Fortwo and Japanese Kei cars fit the A-segment, while the B-segment includes the Fit.




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The Brio was first introduced as a concept in 2010, positioned between A-segment and B-segment. With engines slightly less powerful than the Fit, it qualifies as a B-segment vehicle in European classification.


For those familiar with the Honda Fit, known for its 2530mm wheelbase and 130 HP L15B2/3 engine, the Brio offers an even more compact option. The Brio (five-door hatchback) and its sedan sibling, the Brio Amaze, have a 2405mm wheelbase, lighter at 940kg, placing them as smaller yet capable cars between the Kei cars and the Fit.


Previous Honda models like the Logo (discontinued in 2001) and early City generations have filled this segment. Yet, Honda resurrected the space with the Brio series, launching in 2011 and featuring a name that means "lively" in Italian.


Engines:
L12B (DD1): 88 HP, available with 5MT or CVT.
L13A (DD2): 100 HP, providing a performance boost.
Performance: Adequate for city driving but struggles on highways when fully loaded.

Updates: Retained core mechanics but extended the wheelbase to 2405mm for improved rear legroom.
Engine Enhancements: The L12B engine increased to 90 HP and 110 Nm torque.
Transmission: Continued 5MT and CVT options, with chassis code still DD1.


Featuring standard black roof, redesigned headlights, and 15-inch Bridgestone Potenza RE030 tires, the RS version showed more attention to detail for the Southeast Asian market.


The Brio benefited from over 85% locally sourced parts from Thailand, India, and Indonesia, keeping production costs low. For context, the Brio's price in Thailand is about 495,000 THB (11,500 USD), compared to the Jazz starting at 555,000 THB (13,000 USD).


Honda's strategic move with Brio showcases its ability to adapt to local market needs. While cost-cutting measures may impact quality, balancing affordability and original design can make or break a car's reception.
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