Text and photos by Kap Maceda Aguila
TRUTH to tell, it seemed that the more popular displays at the 7th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) were smaller vehicles. One of them was the all-new Suzuki Jimny 4×4. The other was Honda’s Small RS Concept Car.
The hot hatch was revealed in April at the Indonesia Motor Show, with the “RS” appellation suggesting its sporty leanings. It was displayed there alongside Honda’s NSX GT3, Civic Type R, a refreshed BR-V, and a special-edition Mobilio, according to a report from Car and Driver.
Rising on Honda’s small car platform, it is meant to appeal to a younger set of customers (and even older ones channeling their halcyon days of youth). “Honda Small RS Concept is the implementation of our endless innovation, emphasizing Honda’s sporty spirit, especially in small car line up. As a concept car, this is our vision of what a small sporty car should be,” said Noriyuki Takakura, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. president and GM, in a speech at the launch of the company’s exhibit booth at PIMS.
The Small RS Concept is marked by aggressive styling, such as a large maw on its front, sweeping headlights, and even a hood scoop (yes, a hood scoop) on its wee bonnet. As it is, the vehicle appears to have forgotten it is a microcar — or rather, smashes the conventional notions of how a car this size should be.
Viewed from the side, the vehicle finally relents and betrays its proportions while still playing the part of an aggressor. Low-profile tires on black alloys are embraced tightly by lowered wheel wells. Slight but noticeable fender flares are complemented by deep creases and rising character lines emanating from what appear to be fender vents (we’re not sure if they’re faux). On the rear of the hatch is a massive wing that serves to complete the sporty image.
Developed by Honda Asia Pacific R&D, the Small RS Concept is imagined to be a version of the next-gen Brio. If we go by this thinking, then this hot hatch might be similarly powered by a 1.2-liter i-VTEC gas engine mated to a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, or a CVT.
There were other offerings from HCPI, of course, such as the City, BR-V, CR-V, and the perennial selfie attraction that is the Civic Type R. Of note is that the Honda BR-V, introduced in the country via the 2016 PIMS, will now be produced here in the Philippines, along with the City. Mr. Takakura revealed that, to date, over 11,000 units of the BR-V have been sold here.
Meanwhile, the all-new Honda CR-V has also been well-received with over 3,000 units sold, while the 200-unit country allocation of the Civic Type R has been completely taken up.
