Honda Mobilio Standard vs RS variant - The better choice

Half-way through 2017, Honda Philippines launched the 2018 Honda Mobilio. The new Mobilio took everyone by surprise, as it now reflected brand’s updated design philosophy. Thus, looking similar to its revised siblings - the all-new City and BR-V.

However, post its release two questions that consistently poked prospective Mobilio buyers were -

1) Which variant is better according to their usability? 
2) Whether the higher trim justifies its bigger price tag?

Honda Mobilio is currently offered in three variants -

• Mobilio 1.5 E MT
• Mobilio 1.5 V CVT
• Mobilio 1.5 RS Navi CVT

Amongst the three, it’s the standard, and range-topping Mobilio trims we’ll be comparing today. The two vary from one another on more than one aspect, the price being a crucial differentiating factor in the list.

Below we have compared the two Mobilio variants on parameters like design, amenities, safety, and performance. Reading which, we hope you’ll get better clarity on your purchase decision amongst the two.

1. Design Language

As mentioned earlier all-new Mobilio is based on Honda’s latest design philosophy that is shared by Honda's most premium offerings. All the Mobilio trims based on the same, therefore, it features a more stylish and modern look. A rear site for a seven-seater MPV.

What remains common in both the Mobilio variants is a pair of sleek multi-reflector halogen headlamps, LED guide light, high-mount stop lamp, front and rear wipers with washer and a micro antenna. However, keeping true to the RS Navi badge exclusivity, the high-spec trim features a gloss black grille instead of the standard chrome option. Its distinctive design kit further includes RS design front and rear bumper. The standard trim misses on RS limited additions like side sill garnish, exhaust pipe finisher, and tailgate spoiler.

Available in five standard color options, the RS gets a new Phoenix Orange Pearl splash that further stretches its exclusivity quotient.

2. Cabin Comfort & Utility

Be it the standard or the range-topping trim; new Honda Mobilio features a revised cabin over the previous model. Most visible change comes in the form of a new flowy dashboard that now looks all premium and plush. As for the entertainment, comfort, and utility features, the 1.5 E trim lags behind Mobilio RS Navi. While the standard option gets a 1-DIN Audio system, the Navi features a 7-inch touchscreen system with navigation feature. Bluetooth, hands-free telephone, audio steering, and HDMI are amiss in 1.5 E model.
There’s more to the RS-only feature list, like the orange backlight instrument cluster, rear-view camera, push-start system, and BR-V’s borrowed one touch fold-tumble system.

3. Safety Kit

Honda has improved the overall safety kit for 2018 Mobilio. All trims now feature speed sensing automatic door locks, a feature earlier limited to Honda luxury models. Apart from it, both variants are fitted with standard safety options like anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution, ISOFIX child seat, and dual airbags. The RS gets added a boost of safety amenities with Hill Start Assist and Vehicle Stability Assist.

4. Performance

All-new Honda Mobilio runs on the familiar 1.5-litre i-VTEC mill that also services other Honda cars like City and Jazz. The said mill is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission in the 1.5 E trim and to a CVT option in the RS Navi. As for the output, it remains same across all variants and reads as 120 PS and 145 Nm. The only difference comes in the form of a pair of paddle shifters that are exclusive to RS trim.

Conclusion -

Honda Mobilio 1.5 E M/T is packed with brand's new design language, essential cabin amenities, and standard safety options. Priced at Php 829,000, this variant is a good option for individuals who are looking for a quality car with necessity features.
The RS Navi CVT, on the other hand, is for the ones who like it bold and beautiful. It’s undoubtedly a statement maker that is tuned with high-tech features and is priced at Php 1.029,000.