Comprehensive Series on Honda Automobile Gasoline Engines Part 2: Twin-Cylinder EH Series
【Information Feature】Searching for Fit’s Lost Sibling: Brio and Brio AmazeOriginal: Honda Magazine | Japanese Car Enthusiast Magazine | October 24, 2024, 11:00
IntroductionTo many in China, the Honda Fit (Jazz) represents the "upper limit" of acceptable small cars. Some domestic automotive media even classify it as an “A-segment” car, which is highly debatable. In European terms, the Fit belongs to the B-segment, similar to the Volkswagen Polo. What some in China refer to as “A-segment” actually aligns with microcars like the Smart Fortwo and Japanese Kei-cars.
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The Brio ConceptThe Brio was first introduced as a concept in 2010, showcasing a compact size between A-segment and B-segment. Although smaller in power compared to the Fit, it is still classified under B-segment in Europe.
About the Brio and Brio AmazeFor those familiar with the Fit, which boasts a 2530mm wheelbase and a 130 HP L15B2/3 engine, the Brio series presents an even smaller option. The Brio (five-door hatchback) and Brio Amaze (four-door sedan) feature a 2405mm wheelbase, shorter than the first-gen Fit’s 2450mm and weighing only 940kg.
Historical Background:The Honda Logo, a predecessor, had only one generation (GA3) and was discontinued in 2001, featuring the D13B engine with 91 HP.
Technical Details of the First Generation Brio:Engine Variants:
L12B engine (DD1), with 88 HP and a choice of 5MT or CVT.
L13A engine (DD2) with 100 HP.
Performance Note: The lightweight design made the Brio effective in urban settings but underwhelming on highways with full passenger loads.
Variants and Market Positioning: The Brio Amaze is the four-door sibling, sharing mechanicals but featuring a trunk, positioned similarly to the Fit and City relationship. The Brio was tailored for markets like Southeast Asia and India, fitting into a more budget-conscious segment using the GSP platform with reduced features and engine displacement.
Second Generation Brio:2018 Launch: Introduced at the Indonesia Auto Show, maintaining the same mechanical setup with minor updates like a longer 2405mm wheelbase.
Engine Upgrades: L12B engine improved slightly to 90 HP and 110 Nm torque, retaining 5MT and CVT options. The chassis code remained DD1.
Notable Models and Features:2019 Brio RS: Black roof as standard, redesigned headlights, bumpers inspired by the Civic Si, and 15-inch Bridgestone Potenza RE030 tires.
Interior Details: Enhanced features compared to the Fit, tailored for tropical climates with cooling-only air conditioning.
Localized Production Strategy: The Brio’s affordability stems from over 85% of parts being sourced locally in Thailand, India, and Indonesia, reducing costs. For instance, a Brio in Thailand costs about 495,000 THB (11,500 USD), while the Jazz starts at 555,000 THB (13,000 USD). Conclusion: Honda’s global strategy for specific models like the Brio exemplifies the challenge of catering to local preferences. While cost-cutting may lower prices, it often compromises quality. Only when value and quality are balanced can a great car be made. Reducing features for affordability often risks diluting what makes a car special.
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