Honda Brio Automatic to launch on October 18

Japanese car maker Honda has announced the introduction of its small car Brio in an automatic transmission avatar expected to be launched on October 18. Powered by the existing 1.2 litre i-VTEC four cylinder motor, the five speed autobox will be available in two trim levels namely ‘S(O)’ and ‘V’. The able workhorse that is electronically linked to the transmission produces 88 PS of power @ 6,000 rpm and 109Nm of torque @ 4,500 rpm. Also Read: Honda Brio Automatic : First Drive

Including the creature comforts of the existing ‘S’ trim version such as power windows, keyless entry and an integrated audio system along with steering mounted controls, the base automatic will also have SRS Airbags, ABS with EBD and tilt steering as additions. The top-of-the-line ‘V’ variant will also sport alloy wheels, fog lamps and dual tone beige interior.

The torque convertor may seem to be slightly dated. However, Honda is upping the ante in the small car segment considering the competition has adopted to no more than a three speed autobox layout. The Brio Automatic also has a multi-gear selection layout that is ideal for trotting through crowded city roads with ease without compromising on mileage.

Honda has achieved an ARAI claimed fuel efficiency of 16.5 kmpl with the five-speed torque convertor as opposed to a 19.4 kmpl with the manual transmission and is expected to have an approximately Rs 25,000 rise over the existing manual transmission version.

Rumours of Honda adopting alternate fuel for their small cars and their premium sedan, the City had been doing the rounds. While company-fitted CNG is now available with every auto-major producing four wheelers for the masses, the Japanese car maker is pretty tight lipped about it. The company will also usher the 1.6 litre i-DTEC oil burner in the next gen City by 2014. Expect the Brio and its sedan version that is due soon to also sport diesel engine options.