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"New" KM's 1.8L Stream review


Ahyoo2002
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Hi all, a review on Stream by BT:

 

GOOD things sometimes come in small packages, or in the case of the new Honda Stream, not quite small but compact.

 

This seven-seat compact MPV first appeared on our roads last September as a parallel import. Its popularity soon rivalled that other best-selling grey import - the Toyota Wish.

 

The only difference between the two, however, is that the Stream is now available through authorised distributor Kah Motor.

 

The neat 'coupe-crossover' styling of the second-generation Stream is a big change from the old model, but the major improvements are to be found inside.

 

Its driving position is a revelation because Honda has finally realised that not all drivers are five feet tall with no torso. There is now an adequate amount of space between the steering wheel and the seat, although the latter could still go a bit lower.

 

The new model's wheelbase is 20mm longer than its predecessor's and, with the rearrangement of the pedals, yields an extra 30mm in legroom for the third row of seats. Most importantly, the last row has a flat floor and good toe-room, so the two back-seats can actually be used by two adults.

 

The rear passengers don't get their own air-vents, though. Instead, a centre vent on the dashboard - called the 'upper vent' - channels cool air to the back of the car.

 

There is no manual shifting of the five-speed automatic gearbox either. And unlike higher-end Stream models in the domestic Japanese market, no steering-mounted paddle shifts.

 

But like all auto Honda gearboxes, this one is smooth and quick enough when left to do the job on its own. The 1.8-litre engine obviously doesn't provide mind-blowing acceleration but it is acceptable.

 

The word 'Eco' lights up on the instrument display when the i-Vtec engine is in its most economical mode. Honda says that when this happens, the 1.8-litre unit is operating with the fuel economy of a 1.5-litre engine and it is possible to log as much as 14 km per litre during highway cruising.

 

As an export model, the Stream has certified Euro 2 reliability compliance for its engine and transmission. Compared with the parallel imported version, it also has rear disc brakes, an immobiliser and a security system.

 

The Stream was conceived as a versatile and easy-to-drive utility model and those goals have largely been achieved. Its steering is light at parking speeds and tightens up when going faster.

 

The ride comfort is good and the interior quiet at higher speeds. It may be a relatively basic car, but it is a well-made and affordable little package. Bigger isn't always better, it seems.

 

Engine: 1,799cc

Gearbox: 5-speed automatic transmission

Max power: 140hp @ 6,300rpm

Max torque: 174Nm @ 4,300rpm

0-100 kmh: 11.4 secs

Top speed: 193 kmh

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The problem is the car is too basic and also I still try very hard to convince myself that the beige + black interior is acceptable [shakehead]

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Hehe, Mazda 5 not yet facelift. K* as usual very haolian one and do not bother about what customer said, if you want you buy loh, if you can wait then wait loh, if not go next door [lipsrsealed]

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