The new engine could see record fuel efficiency.
A report on Autocar India states that Honda is working on a 1.2-liter three-cylinder diesel engine, that will find its place in the next generation of the Honda Brio which launches sometime in 2017.
The 1.2-liter diesel engine will not be a new engine, rather it will be a downsized version of the current four-cylinder 1.5-liter Earth Dreams unit which powers the City, Amaze and Mobilio. In essence it would be the 1.5-liter with one cylinder less. This would not only keep costs in check, but could also help to achieve a high fuel efficiency figure, says the report.
While cars based on the Brio like the Mobilio and Amaze get a diesel engine, the Brio is available solely with the 1.2-liter petrol motor. Going forth, the petrol-only Brio may be unable to get Honda the necessary volumes as competitors like the Maruti Celerio and Hyundai Grand i10 will soon get a diesel engine, or already have a diesel variant (in case of the Grand and Beat).
Also see: Rendering - Honda Brio-based compact SUV
The next gen Brio is likely to see a plusher interior with more features and a conventional tailgate as well.
Competitors: Hyundai Grand i10, Maruti Celerio, Tata Kite (codename), Chevrolet Beat
Expected Price: INR 4-6 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: 2017
[Source - Autocar India]
