LAHORE – Honda Atlas Cars Pakistan (HACP) has delayed the launch of Pakistan’s first 1200cc Honda Brio car due to the uncertain economic climate of the country.
The Honda Brio is a compact 5-door hatchback that the Japanese automaker sells as a budget city car in markets such as India, South Africa, and Thailand.
The car is powered by 1.2 L L12B i-VTEC I4 engine coupled with a 5-speed manual or CVT transmission.
The model was initially expected to launch in Pakistan next year, citing its suitability for the Pakistani market.
According to sources, Honda had already given all the “drawing of dies, tools, and molds to local vendors some six months ago.”
“HACP has now asked local vendors to cancel their activities for parts development. They also asked for the drawings to be handed back to the company,” claimed a Honda vendor.
The Honda Brio was expected to add another 3000 vehicles to HACP’s total production volume just before the launch of new entrants into Pakistan’s long-stagnant auto-sector, reported Pakwheels
Hyundai, Renault and Kia expect to have several models on the road in the next three years that are likely to stir fierce competition in the market by offering Pakistani consumers unprecedented variety.
“It’s (Honda Brio) launch is neither final nor dropped. It is yet to be finalized for entry into the Pakistani market. It is in the planning phase.” said an official from Honda Atlas.
HACP introduced the Honda BR-V in Pakistan last year and has enjoyed a 13% year on year increase in sales and volume growth, selling 42,810 units of its popular Civic and City models.
