The Honda Vezel is a five-seater compact SUV that has been in production for two generations from 2013 to the present. It is known as the Honda HR-V in other markets outside Japan. It boasts of high safety ratings and it offers all-round protection for both passengers and pedestrians.
The first generation codenamed RU was produced between 2013 and 2020 while the second generation known as RV has been in production from 2021 to the present.
The 2020 Vezel is offered with 2 engine options; the 1.5 Litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine and the 1.5 Litre DOHC i-VTEC i-DCD Hybrid petrol engine.
They are linked to either a CVT transmission or a 7-speed DCT transmission for the hybrid versions and are available in both 2WD and 4WD.
- G– This grade features 15-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, air conditioning, electric seats, cruise control, privacy glass, telescopic steering, central locking and a rear wiper.
- X– Grade X adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, traction control, standard anti-lock brakes, split-folding rear seats and electronic brake force distribution.
- Z– Grade Z comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, telescopic steering, rear window wiper, rear spoiler, electric windows, cruise control and traction control.
- RS – This grade comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a front seat belt force limiter, crash-worthy bodywork, cruise control, air conditioning, electric windows, central locking and a rear spoiler.
2020 Honda Vezel Interior
The 2020 Honda Vezel has an impressive cabin with a clean and simple dashboard design and well-laid-out features.
The top of the dashboard, where the window vents sit, is made of hard plastic, but the area around the head unit and air vents is made of soft-touch materials.
The 2020 Vezel comfortably accommodates up to 5 people across two rows. The front seats are comfortable and spacious for both the driver and the front passenger. The backrest is equally impressive, with prominent lumbar support and backrest cushions that hug well.
The rear seats are equally comfortable with ample legroom and back rest. However, the Vezel’s slopping roofline makes the headroom tight, especially for taller passengers.
Cabin Storage
There are several storage compartments in the cabin that are useful for storing items such as smartphones, beverages, goggles, handbags etc. At the first row, there are 2 cup holders, door panel storage, a glove box and the centre box. For the second row, there are 2 cupholders, front seat jacket pockets and door pockets.
2020 Honda Vezel Boot Space
The 2020 Vezel offers 448 litres of space behind the rear seats. This may not be a lot, but it is enough to carry the luggage of a family of five. If extra space is needed, the second-row seats can be folded in a split configuration to create a considerable amount of space.
2020 Honda Vezel Exterior
The Honda Vezel is one of the best-looking crossover SUVs around. It has a modern and sporty exterior design that catches the eye as it cruises along the highways.
The front look is a bit chunky because the bonnet is short, but it still looks nice. There is a shiny piece running across the front that adds to the look of the Vezel and reflects light to brighten the front fascia. There are also LED headlights, sleek daytime running lights and a prominent grille with the Honda emblem to add to the overall rugged look.
The side profile features character lines that run from the front bumper to the rear doors.
The sloping roofline, which gives the Honda Vezel a coupé feel, makes it look sportier and less boring than most SUVs.
The rear door handles are the Alfa-Romeo style and are hidden near the C-pillar next to the rear window giving a sleek appearance from a distance.
The rear has a V-shaped tail light and a rear spoiler with a shark-fin antenna mounted just above it.
Safety Features: SRS Airbags, Curtain airbags, EBD with TCS, ABS, City Brake Active system, Rear Torque Distribution, collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and road departure mitigation.
2020 Honda Vezel Fuel Consumption
- 2020 Honda Vezel 1.5L fuel consumption: 18.6 Km/L
- 2020 Honda Vezel 1.5L Hybrid fuel consumption: 24.0 Km/L
2020 Honda Vezel Acceleration
- 2020 Honda Vezel 1.5L accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 11.0 sec.
- 2020 Honda Vezel 1.5L Hybrid accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 10.5 sec.
2020 Honda Vezel Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 Litres
Ground Clearance: The 2020 Honda Vezel has a ground clearance of 170 mm (6.7 inches).
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 10,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil
Major Service: At 15,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to Buy
Service parts are available and fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts on the other hand are expensive and not as easily available.
2020 Honda Vezel Stability and Handling
The Honda Vezel offers a smooth driving experience and its stability is generally good, whether you are cruising around town or on the motorway.
The steering is responsive, but some drivers may find it a little numb and not the most confidence-inspiring.
The pedal feels very light, which makes the Honda Vezel easy to drive, but releasing the accelerator doesn’t slow the car down very much because of the CVT, which can cause braking late and abruptly at first.
The brake hold function works perfectly, holding the brakes for you after you have come to a complete stop, and the only downside is that there is always a slight jerk when you move off.
The 2020 Vezel uses a MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension, which ensures a comfortable ride. Bumps and potholes are probably the car’s worst enemies, especially when driving at high speed.
Under the hood, the 2020 Vezel comes standard with a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine; there is also an alternative 1.5-litre Hybrid petrol engine.
The Honda Vezel has established itself to be a reliable vehicle since its introduction to the market in 2013.
Common issues reported by Honda Vezel owners include; CVT issues, hybrid battery problems and Air Conditioning System problems.
For a detailed analysis of the reliability of the Honda Vezel and a useful guide for first-time buyers.
If you are planning to own the Honda Vezel or you already own it, it’s vital that you read the Owner’s Manual. Download the English Version of the Owner’s Manual here
2020 Honda Vezel Competitors: Mazda CX3, Subaru XV, Nissan Dualis, Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi RVR,
What we like about the 2020 Honda Vezel
- Fuel Efficient
- Comfortable
- Exterior design
What we don’t
- Expensive parts
- Limited feature options
- Rear headroom
Conclusion
The Honda Vezel excels when it comes to fuel efficiency and interior space. It’s the best pick for buyers looking for a modern compact SUV that’s perfect for the Kenyan market.
It comes with a well-built and sturdy cabin, not to mention seats that can be arranged in different ways. Although the Vezel lacks some features, it is very affordable for its class.
If you are looking to buy or import the 2020 Honda Vezel we can help you with this process without any middleman. we have developed a network of trusted dealers in Kenya, Japan, South Africa and the UK who supply us with exceptional cars. Simply call us on 0722 469360 or email us at info@topcar.co.ke and we’ll get you the right car at the right price.
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