New-look Honda Ballade in SA

The latest Ballade has been launched in South Africa. Topcar will be driving it later this week, but how about those prices?

Since Honda SA dusted off the Ballade nameplate three years ago as a way to leverage is Jazz-based sedan on local fans, the three-box has already become a strong seller for the brand. Now, for 2014, the Ballade’s been significantly updated, but continues to represent great value in the budget-conscious segment of the market.

The new Ballade’s features include an all-new CVT and a touchscreen-based infotainment system on its extended list of standard features. It’s 45 mmlonger than the car it replaces – the wheelbase has grown, too, by 50mm to 2600mm – which also guarantees an improvement in cabin space.

Fuel sippers

Power is still provided by Honda’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and output is unchanged at 88kW and 145Nm, respectively. A CVT with shift paddles is an option; this model has a top speed of 190kph, versus the manual’s 185kph top end. In terms of fuel consumption, however, the manual is the more economical of the two, returning 5.8 litres per 100km against the CVT’s 5.9 litres per 100km.

Ballade is suspended by a MacPherson front strut and a rear torsion beam that, Honda says, allows for higher torsional rigidity and good comfort levels. Safety is another top priority. Six airbags, active head restraints, vehicle stability control (VSA) and hill start assist are standard. Comfort features include air conditioning, elective windows, electric folding mirrors and remote central locking.

Prices for the Ballade include a three-year or 100 000km warranty, a four-year or 60 000km service plan and road assistance for one year.

Prices:
Honda Ballade 1.5 Trend – R195 900
Honda Ballade 1.5 Trend CVT – R210 500
Honda Ballade 1.5 Elegance – R220 990
Honda Ballade 1.5 Elegance CVT – R235 590