Should you wait for the 2023 Honda BR-V or buy the Toyota Veloz?

Malaysians have recently witnessed the launch of two new people haulers - second-gen Perodua Alza and Toyota Veloz, both of which are based on the same platform and powered by the same mechanical setup. However, if we compare their prices, the non-national MPV is RM 20k pricer than the top-spec Alza on account of premium fits and finishes and worldwide renowned Toyota quality and reliability tag. In direct competition with the new Veloz, the local market has the Honda BR-V, which has been winning the Malaysians’ hearts for a long.

Well, the ongoing BR-V looks quite outdated in front of the Toyota Veloz, but Honda fans need not to disappoint as the upgraded version of the BR-V is expected to launch soon in the country. Here, we put the two MPVs in a neck-to-neck matchup to know if the 2023 Honda BR-V gives one enough reasons to hold back his/her purchase or not? So, let’s get started.

Design 

The two MPVs have distinct and modern styling, which may or may not attract individuals as per their tastes or liking. The Veloz boasts an angular design language with sharp and aggressive lines and angular LED headlights edging the hexagonal grille. Among the other key exterior design features are T-shaped chrome front accents, dual-tone 17-inch alloy, and a full-width, 3D tail lamp assembly. The cabin of the MPV looks dynamic with soft trimmings and ambient lighting.

Speaking about the upcoming BR-V design profile, the MPV looks refined and rugged with more SUV-like styling and the brand’s signature “Solid Wing Face” featuring a large slatted grille mated to a wide chrome bar and new slim headlights housing L-shaped DRLs. Also part of the exterior kit is a silver skid plate, trapezoidal LED tail lights and new 17-inch wheels. Inside, the new BR-V has a far-reaching appearance reminiscent of the bigger CR-V. 

Dimensions

Measurements	Toyota Veloz	Honda BR-V
Length	4,475 mm	4,490 mm
Width	1,750 mm	1,780 mm
Height	1,700 mm	1,685 mm
Wheelbase	2,750 mm	2,700 mm
Ground clearance	190 mm	209 mm
Boot capacity (rear seat down)	498 litres	539 litres

Size-wise, the upcoming BR-V is 15 mm longer and 30 mm wider than the Veloz, however, the latter is 15 mm taller and has a 50 mm longer wheelbase. The Honda MPV also offers a 19 mm advantage over its counterpart when it comes to ground clearance and also its cargo area is bigger than the Toyota MPV.

Engine specifications

Specifications	Toyota Veloz	Honda BR-V
Engine	1.5-litre inline four-cylinder petrol	1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol
Max power	106 PS at 6,000 rpm	121 PS at 6,600 rpm
Max torque	138 Nm at 4,200 rpm	145 Nm at 4,300 rpm
Transmission	7-speed CVT	Six-speed manual or CVT

While the engine capacity of both vehicles is identical, the unit under the bonnet of the BR-V churns out higher levels of output. It is likely to come with the manual gearbox option, attracting those buyers who like to keep control in their hands. 

Features

Both Japanese MPVs are loaded with bags full of creature comforts offering occupants a comfortable and entertaining ride. Let’s check out their features list one by one, starting with the Veloz.

The Toyota MPV specs sheet comprises -

• 7,0-inch coloured Multi-Information Display
• 9.0-inch infotainment unit
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
• Telescopic and tilt-adjustable steering wheel
• Wireless charging pad
• Automatic air-conditioning system
• Electric Parking Brake with auto-brake hold
• Premium semi-leather seats
• LED ambient light
• 6 SRS airbags
• Toyota Safety Sense ADAS pack, comprising Pre-Collision Warning, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Departure Alert, Lane Departure Prevention, and Adaptive High Beam.
• Parking sensors
• Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

The upcoming Honda BR-V, on the contrary, is likely to come equipped with the following bits -

• 4.2-inch multi-info instrument cluster display
• 7.0-inch infotainment unit 
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
• Automatic air-conditioning system
• Multi-function leather steering wheel
• Remote engine start
• Keyless entry and start with Honda Smart Key
• Illuminated vanity mirror
• Leather upholstery

• One-touch tumble second-row seats
• Drive-down mechanism for third-row seats 
• Power sockets for all rows
• Six airbags as standard
• Honda LaneWatch blind spot mitigating cameras
• Honda Sensing ADAS pack with Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Lane Departure Warning, Auto High-Beam, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lead Car Departure Notification System

Price

Toyota offers the Veloz in a single trim, priced at RM 95k, while the ongoing BR-V retails between RM 90,700 and RM 97,700. On account of new features and styling updates, the latter is expected to get a notable premium.

Both MPVs are impressive in their own way, so ultimately the choice boils down to one's preferences and liking.

Also read: Top five MPVs under RM 100,000