Japanese carmaker Honda has entered the fast-growing compact SUV segment with the all-new “BR-V”.

Syakar Trading, authorised distributor of Honda for Nepal, officially launched the BR-V (Bold Runabout Vehicle) on Tuesday.

The vehicle is available in five petrol engine variants, with prices ranging from Rs3.99 million to Rs5.30 million.

Unlike other well-received competitors like the Ford Ecosport, Hyundai Creta and Suzuki Vitara Brezza, the Honda BR-V comes with seven seats. The BR-V offers a ground clearance of 210mm, roof rails, black plastic cladding and faux skid plates in the front and rear.

The machine is equipped with a 16-valve, 1.5 litre i-VTEC engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) equipped with first-in-segment paddle shifters. The engine churns out a maximum power of 117bhp at 6,600rpm and a maximum torque of 145Nm at 4,600rpm. It has a fuel tank capacity of 42 litres.

The manual transmission variant offers the best in class fuel economy of 15.4kmpl, while the CVT version offers 16kmpl mileage, according to the company.

Sharad Dhungel, manager at Syakars’ Honda car division, said the exterior design is sporty and the wild and bold looks enhance its road presence.

Heat absorbing windshield is another first in class feature. All-black interiors with silver accents add to the premium looks, he said, adding the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters makes shifting gears easier for drivers. “There are no other seven-seater  compact SUV in the market,” Dhungel claimed.

Honda has used McPherson Strut Coil Spring in the front suspension and a torsion beam coil spring at the rear.

Moreover, the Multi Information Display (MID) allows the driver to monitor all important trip and vehicle information including driving range, instantaneous and average fuel efficiency, ambient temperature and time. Other features include push button start with smart entry, integrated Bluetooth audio system with hands-free telephone and steering mounted controls for audio, automatic air conditioner and power foldable rear view mirrors.

The Honda BRV is available in three metallic shades—Alabaster Silver Metallic, Urban Titanium Metallic and Golden Brown Metallic—along with Taffeta White, White Orchid Pearl and Carnelian Red Pearl.