Report - Next gen Honda Brio to get 1.2L 3-cyl diesel engine; Expected in 2017

17/10/2014 - 13:56 Honda Brio, Honda Anjan Ravi

The new engine could see record fuel efficiency.

A report on Autocar India states that Honda is working on a 1.2-liter three-cylinder diesel engine, that will find its place in the next generation of the Honda Brio which launches sometime in 2017.

Honda Brio front at the CAMPI 2014 — The next generation Brio can be expected in 2017.

The 1.2-liter diesel engine will not be a new engine, rather it will be a downsized version of the current four-cylinder 1.5-liter Earth Dreams unit which powers the City, Amaze and Mobilio. In essence it would be the 1.5-liter with one cylinder less. This would not only keep costs in check, but could also help to achieve a high fuel efficiency figure, says the report.

While cars based on the Brio like the Mobilio and Amaze get a diesel engine, the Brio is available solely with the 1.2-liter petrol motor. Going forth, the petrol-only Brio may be unable to get Honda the necessary volumes as competitors like the Maruti Celerio and Hyundai Grand i10 will soon get a diesel engine, or already have a diesel variant (in case of the Grand and Beat).

Honda Brio Modulo interior at the CAMPI 2014 — A new interior and a conventional bootlid would be seen on the hatchback, apart from the new engine.

Also see: Rendering - Honda Brio-based compact SUV

The next gen Brio is likely to see a plusher interior with more features and a conventional tailgate as well.

Competitors: Hyundai Grand i10, Maruti Celerio, Tata Kite (codename), Chevrolet Beat
Expected Price: INR 4-6 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: 2017

[Source - Autocar India]