Received our BR-V in black today, the basic version without rims/leather etc. I am pleasantly surprised, my parents were sold on the car from the day I showed it to them and told them the price. I am sharing my first impression because different views here raised doubts in my mind regarding the car and what it had to offer.
Haven't received the plates as yet so only driven 30-40 km so far, the CVT is super smooth, the air conditioning is excellent, with the rear vents adding real value to the 7 seater experience. The last row of seats were surprisingly not as congested as I had expected, they are not as wide as the ones from the 99 Prado, but the leg space is comparable and an adult can sit in the back. We made 5.10 and a 6.1 tall boys sit in the back, the back seat tilts back just a bit and both were able to sit comfortably enough, though sliding down the seat and sitting on the edge is not possible without running into leg space issues. Overall, well spaced. There are speaker to either sides of the last row of seats, with functional arms rests with space for putting in cups on both sides in the last row...attention to detail thumbs up.
So far, I am inclined to believe this model offers excellent value for money. The only brand new MPV/Crossover you can get in this price range! It is a good sign that a variety of car types are on offer in the market, with the BR-V being a rather functional and practical vehicle! Looking forward to testing the engine, drive and suspension in greater detail after we get the plates and get the first 1000km under the belt.
P.S: We have owned Civics since 1995, added a Honda Accord CL9 to the garage and have kept the City 2005, 2010 and a Nissan Bluebird Sylphy 2007.