Car Test
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R0227 | |
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April 2002 |
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| Honda Stream | ||
| Printer Friendly Page | Featured model: 1.7SE | |
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CALL IT AN MPV IF YOU MUST, BUT HONDA WOULD PREFER us to think of the Stream as something rather different: a rakish, coupé-style SAV (sports activity vehicle).
All right, then, but just how sporty is this slippery looking, Civic-based seven seater? Well, in two-litre/153bhp form it is, indeed, a really swift performer, clocking 30-70mph in 10sec or so on its way to a top speed of about 127mph. (It’s also available, incidentally, with an excellent sequential shift automatic transmission.) This is the engine of choice if you regularly travel with a full load of passengers. Nevertheless, this smooth, rev-happy “little” 1.7 doesn’t disgrace itself. Although red-lined at 6800rpm, it’s much less “peaky” than previous VTEC engines, but does, however, feel (and sound) particularly eager beyond 3500. Performance is aided by a first-rate gearchange emerging conveniently from the facia, with third gear great for overtaking. Low overall gearing will have you fumbling for a non-existent sixth gear on a motorway, though. Rutted roads can create a jiggly, jostly ride, but generally the suspension is comfortably composed, with well-controlled cornering roll. The Stream is also strong on grip, which helps to make it surprisingly swervable for a sizeable seven-seater that doesn’t feel its bulk when hurried along twisting roads. The trouble with the driving position is that the steering wheel adjusts only for rake, and the higher you raise the seat, the less thigh support you get. You’re also faced with a dark, sombre dash and gloomy instruments, but at least there are practical stalk controls, a decent left footrest and sensibly high radio and heater push buttons. Honda’s claim that the Stream “seats seven adults in comfort” should be taken with a pinch of salt. Only two full-size sliding and reclining seats form the centre row, so a third passenger sits on the 50/50 split, with no side shaping for support. That said, all three enjoy lots of leg-stretching space, plenty of footroom and generous headroom. Not so in the snug, one-piece rear bench seat, though, which is best suited to youngsters. And because it’s a bench, you can’t seat six and have an L-shaped luggage area. With two up and the centre seats slid forward, a spacious carpeted load deck opens up. It’s more of a palaver than with the Zafira, but it’s the next best thing. |
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