Honda Mobilio Diesel S

The Honda Mobilio Diesel S is a seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that was designed to cater to the needs of large families and those requiring ample space. It features a 1.5-liter i-DTEC diesel engine, producing 100 PS of power and 200 Nm of torque, paired with a manual transmission. The vehicle is praised for its smooth engine performance, good pickup, and comfortable driving experience, especially on highways. It comes with features like rear AC vents, tumble fold seats, and a rear seat armrest, which enhance passenger comfort. However, it lacks in terms of interior quality, with cheap plastics and minimal thigh support in the third row. The ground clearance of 189 mm is a plus for Indian roads, and the light controls make it easy to maneuver. Despite its discontinuation, the Mobilio remains a consideration for those seeking a spacious and fuel-efficient MPV, though its shortcomings in comfort and build quality need careful consideration.

The Honda Mobilio Diesel S variant is a mixed bag when it comes to overall performance and value. On the positive side, it boasts a refined and powerful 1.5-liter diesel engine that delivers excellent pickup and can handle full loads with ease. The engine is smooth and efficient, making it a pleasure to drive, especially on long journeys. However, the interior and seating comfort are areas of significant concern. The seats lack proper cushioning, and the third row is only suitable for children or short trips for adults. The quality of plastics and the overall interior design are also subpar, which might deter some buyers. Additionally, the vehicles safety features and build quality have been questioned by several users, highlighting thin body sheets and poor NVH levels. Despite its good performance and fuel efficiency, the Mobilio Diesel S falls short in terms of comfort and build quality, making it a less compelling choice compared to its competitors like the Maruti Ertiga.

The Honda Mobilio Diesel S variant, priced around Rs. 9.43 lakh, comes equipped with several convenience features, including rear AC vents, a 2 DIN audio system with steering-mounted controls, and electrically adjustable ORVMs. This makes it a comfortable and feature-rich option in its segment. I think these additions make it a great value for money.

The Honda Mobilio Diesel S boasts a 1.5L i-DTEC diesel engine, producing 98.6 hp at 3,600 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. This engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive performance. The diesel engine, though a bit noisy, offers excellent fuel efficiency.

In terms of safety, the Honda Mobilio Diesel S is well-equipped with ABS as standard, dual front airbags, and a lighter yet stronger ACE body structure. These features enhance the overall safety of the vehicle, making it a reliable choice for family use. I believe these safety features are a significant selling point.

The Mobilio Diesel S has a spacious interior, with enough legroom and headroom for six adults. The one-touch tumble seats make accessing the third row convenient. The dashboard is neatly laid out with a beige/black combination, giving an airy feel to the cabin.

The Honda Mobilio Diesel S has a fuel efficiency of 24.2 kmpl, making it an economical choice for long trips. The fuel tank capacity of 42 litres further adds to its long-range capabilities. This is particularly beneficial for those who frequently travel long distances.

The Honda Mobilio Diesel S variant, although discontinued, was priced competitively in its segment. At the time of its availability, the ex-showroom price for the Mobilio S i-DTEC was around Rs. 9.43 lakh. On-road prices varied by city but typically added another Rs. 1-2 lakh to the ex-showroom price, including taxes, registration, and other costs. This pricing positioned it slightly higher than the Maruti Ertiga, which was a significant factor in its market reception. Given the current market and the vehicles discontinuation, any remaining stock or used models would likely be priced lower, but the original pricing strategy did not fully justify the premium over its competitors.

The Honda Mobilio Diesel S variant is known for its impressive fuel efficiency. It offers an ARAI-certified mileage of 24.2 kmpl, and real-world users have reported mileage ranging from 22 to 28 kmpl, depending on driving conditions. On highways, the car can easily achieve mileage of around 25-28 kmpl at moderate speeds, while city driving yields around 20-22 kmpl. This makes it an attractive option for those concerned about running costs, especially for long-distance driving.