BUYER'S GUIDE: 2019 Honda Mobilio

The Honda Mobilio is like the third bear in Goldilocks: it's just right. If you feel that SUVs are too tall, vans are too big, and crossovers too small, the Honda Mobilio will fit you like a glove. Whether you want it to ferry seven people, transport cargo, or a little bit of both, this mini-MUV (multi-utility vehicle) is a ready, willing, and able machine. Quite simply, few cars in the B-segment--the category that the Mobilio resides--can match its perfect blend of innovation, practicality, and features. See what makes the 2019 Honda Mobilio a catch in this Buyer's Guide.

Specification

The 2019 Honda Mobilio is powered by a Euro-4 compliant 1.5-liter, four-cylinder Chain Drive SOHC i-VTEC engine that puts out 118 hp and 145 Nm. Honda is so confident in this engine that it's the same one used in the current City and Jazz. This engine is paired with a five-speed manual in the E trim and an Earth Dreams Technology Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in the V and RS Navi, with the latter coming with paddle shifters. Ground clearance is an impressive 189 mm.

Exterior

Updates to the 2019 model include multi-reflecting projector headlights with LED daytime running lights. Design-wise, the front apron, sideskirts, and rear bumper receive a new look. Each trim comes with a different set of wheels—the E has steel, the V has aluminum alloy, and the RS Navi hosts an all-new RS Design aluminum alloy. A roof spoiler adds a bit of sportiness to the RS Navi as well, as does smoked taillights unique to the trim. Side turn signal lights are mirror-mounted on the two upper trims.

The 2019 Mobilio is available in six different colors including Phoenix Orange Pearl (exclusive for RS Navi variant), Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic (available in RS Navi and V Variants), White Orchid Pearl (exclusive for RS Navi variant), Lunar Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl and Taffeta White (available in V and E Variants).

Interior

The 'wow' factor certainly permeates in the Mobilio's cabin, especially the top spec RS Navi. The black-centric trim looks surprisingly warm and welcoming, thanks to the great mix of fine textures overall from the panels and seats, and even the carpet. The passenger features offer upscale convenience, with plenty of storage spaces including five cupholders and four bottleholders.

Everything inside the Mobilio is all about flexibility: there's a one-touch fold-to-tumble 2nd row, multiple seating configurations, and tumbling 2nd- and 3rd- row seats provide maximum cargo space). For 2019, the RS Navi gets a new touchscreen and a nifty push-start button.

Safety

As the Mobilio is primarily meant to be a family car, Honda made sure it has some of the more advanced safety features in its price range. Dual SRS airbags, anti-lock braking system, seatbelt reminder, and ISOFIX systems are enhanced by Smart Entry with Push Start, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist and rear camera with guidelines.

Verdict

Priced between PHP884,000 and PHP1,071,000, the Mobilio is a sensible option over pricey SUVs and cramped city cars. It's packed with upscale aesthetics, high functionality, and overall utility, and so it's safe to conclude that the 2019 Honda Mobilio offers a bigger bang for the buck among its contemporaries and beyond.