AS the sport utility vehicle (SUV) market continues to segment itself into fine niches, one of the most popular has been the compact seven-seater. For 2023, Honda has finally moved into the space setting itself as the standard with the all-new BR-V.

Externally, the BR-V has the typical Honda touches, with a clean design language that follows the company line. The LED lighting all around and front grille mark it out as Honda having similarities to the Civic and the Accord. Even though there is an extra third row, the additional interior space hasn’t skewed the exterior dimensions, keeping everything proportional. Step up to the EX-L Prestige grade for 17-inch wheels and other premium options.

Even the LX is feature packed, having remote start. In the moments when temperatures are too high and the BR-V has been sitting, it can be brought to life with a press of a button, cooling down the interior. The interior is purposeful, like an SUV should be. There’s plenty of glass making for an airy cabin, comfortable seats that give the high seating position SUV buyer yearn for, and plenty of storage for passengers and their gear. Dials are clear with a logical easily accessible layout that makes the quality switchgear fall handily within reach. Cabin refinement is above many class rivals.

This would be all for naught if the main feature of the BR-V didn’t work. Of course it does, it’s a Honda. At this end of the market, there’s little pretence, manufacturers know how their vehicles will be used, and the BR-V is an extended family vehicle. There is space for adults, but third row seats in this class of SUV are best left to children and young adults for long distances. Should the grandparents be along for the journey, they’ll be second row occupants while children will happily move one row back.

Third row access is just a matter of pushing the second row seats forward. To get the third row up is just as effortless, being pulled out of the trunk floor, which they create. With the seats folded, there is a small section that matches their height to complete the trunk. When up, the loss of cargo room is mitigated as that section drops down to give depth. Even better, the seats can fold in various configurations for multiple storage options.

The road to class victory begins, literally on the road, with the BR-V’s driving dynamics which the extra ride height doesn’t impact. It’s not a sports car, but it drives with more zip and refinement than class rivals. The suspension is compliant enough to handle a wide variety of road conditions, on and off road. It’s never harsh enough to disrupt the driving experience. Where other feel more SUV, the BR-V feels more car. The 1.5-litre engine has more than enough power to motivate the BR-V, as the Constantly Variable Transmission tries to meet the driver’s needs, whether it be acceleration or fuel economy.

The BR-V brings the expected Honda values to the segment. It may have been late to the party, but it arrived in style.