Honda Ballade 1.5 RS Test Review

Back in the 1980's, the first Honda car launched in SA was the Ballade. Manufactured and marketed by Mercedes, it immediately gained the reputation for being an upmarket, quality smaller car and was soon perceived as a baby model to the large cars available from Mercedes at that time.
That original version was a relatively small sedan powered by a 1.3 L engine and I drove one belonging to a friend quite often. Even then, the power and performance were above average for a 1.3.
In the years since, the Ballade has been through a number of generations and has certainly grown in size and power over the years. The current model was launched late in 2020 and is now powered by a 1.5L 4 cylinder engine with 89kW and 145Nm. This combines to provide very comfortable and adequate performance ability, especially for cruising on freeways.
Interestingly, Honda have chosen to market the Ballade in 3 derivatives, all powered by the same engine and all with a CVT automatic transmission with no manual option available. Your choice is down to trim and extras. Flappy paddles are available on the upper 2 versions, the Elegance and RS as tested.
CVT transmissions are slowly becoming more acceptable and I can honestly state that I have no problem with this in use in general driving, whether this is commuting or open road. The CVT drone that blighted earlier versions is certainly not an issue in this application. I do, however, have to question the need for the flappy paddles that have become so popular in almost all cars recently. I believe that they should be reserved for true performance models.
Fuel economy has always been a strength of Honda range. (As an aside, the engine is the same as fitted to the H-RV that won it's category in the 2019 Wesbank Fuel Economy Tour, with yours truly as the driver.) The Ballade returned a superb 5.4L/ 100km for the test with a lot of freeway cruising involved.
The latest version boasts a large cabin and massive 506L boot and many luxury touches. Leather trim, 16 inch mag wheels , reverse camera, keyless entry and start plus LED head and foglights are exclusive to the RS model. Strangely, the RS is the only spec to have a full size spare wheel, Comfort and Elegance have a space-saver emergency spare.
Overall, the Ballade is a strong contender in the shrinking small to medium sedan segment and certainly deserves a test drive if you are looking for a vehicle in this category.
The RS model is currently priced at R396 900, with the Comfort starting from R336 900. A 4 year/ 60 000km service plan is included.
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[@miles.a1.9]

Mr R you starting to knock these reviews out the park seriously I enjoyed it.... Especially with your comments on the cvt.... It's not meant to be hammered in any case.
My opinion it is still a Honda and it's quality.

[@themba_rihlampfu]

I just drove one, it does not need to be hammered true

[@nkanyisomaphosa6389]

There's sport mode in this car

[@Mandla_eze_GMazai]

Nice. Im actually browsing Hondas, i would like to own one. But if i may ask, where is that test car at.? I have not seen the RS from dealers anywhere hey..

[@DRexJ5]

It's 4 airbags more than Suzuki Ciaz and the sitting position and comfort is better in the Honda, the boot is bigger too...this is no longer small sedan.It is pricey, but quality is good on the RS..but R400 000, plenty of other alternatives. Demo will be a better buy than brand new...

[@MotorMatters]

The Ciaz is in a much lower price category so not really fair to compare. The biggest competitor for the Ballade is the Corolla Quest which also has a large price advantage. I think you're right that buying a demo or 1 year old (if you can find one) will be a great buy

[@cameron4907]

I think it is expensive compared to some of its rivals but it seems like a bargain compared to the civic and I think Honda wants this to pick up where the civic left off. I do wish Honda would add some features like an infotainment system to the amaze though

[@user-rd3qg5ln9l]

I how'd like to buy this car, but I don't like the tyre size. So would it be possible to
Fit 205 45 R17

[@atobee2595]

Great review sir!

[@MotorMatters]

Thanks for the compliment

[@princemubarwi7582]

I like this car guyz

[@kingmufasa8929]

What about sunroof? Do all have them?