2017 Honda Brio

Honda Brio

Honda’s Brio was meant to be the answer for budget-focused South Africans craving a fuss-free hatchback that wouldn’t empty their wallets at the pumps. Trouble is, you hardly see Brio badges on Joburg’s N1 or crawling through Cape Town’s city bowl, especially compared to S-Presso, Kwid, or Polo Vivo. Maybe that's because Honda’s dealer arm simply hasn’t matched the footprint of rivals, and if you like to buy with your eyes, stock is scarce—just five used units listed, spanning from R99,900 to a punchy R204,990. The average sits at R139,900, but age and condition swing wildly, so you’ll want to inspect closely before parting with your money. All share the same 1.2-litre petrol engine, with either a manual or an auto, and if you pack smart you’ll fit more than you think. If you’re hunting for something newer, you’re out of luck—no fresh Brio stock in SA, so it’s used or nothing. Most examples are 2015 to 2024 models, clocking just under 76,000 km, which makes sense for a city hatch. The range-topping AMAZE 1.2 Comfort CVT sits at R204,990 (twice the entry Brio 1.2 Comfort 5DR manual at R99,900), and that’s a price gap you’ll feel in your bank account. The Brio does what it says on the tin: good for zipping through traffic, light on fuel, and easy to park. Still, rivals like the Kwid and S-Presso offer sharper looks and, crucially, dealer networks that actually have parts when you need them. For many urbanites, that’s the point.