2022–2024 Honda Vezel: A Carimports.mu Review

Honda Vezel (RV Series)

The 2022–2024 Honda Vezel is a practical and popular compact crossover imported to Mauritius through Japanese domestic market auctions. Built on the RV platform, this vehicle provides an effective balance of elevated seating position, fuel efficiency, and practical interior room. It is a logical choice for drivers who want more utility than a standard hatchback without stepping up to the higher operating costs and larger footprint of a mid-size SUV.

Sourced directly from Japanese auctions, the Vezel is a fast-selling vehicle for dealerships in Port Louis and Ebene, offering stable resale demand. Honda manufactured this generation with focus on everyday usability across island environments. The elevated ride height helps drivers navigate steep driveways, high curbings, and waterlogged coastal roads without damaging undercarriage components.

Sourcing a high-grade unit directly from Japanese auctions ensures your funds purchase a vehicle with verified mileage and clean maintenance records. This protects your hard-earned money from regional abuse or poor repair histories often found on locally sourced secondhand cars.

Production History

Honda manufactured the second-generation Vezel (RV Series) for initial release during the 2021 model year with a complete exterior and interior redesign. Honda focused heavily on upgrading its e:HEV hybrid system, which utilizes dual electric motors to drive the wheels in most urban driving scenarios to maximize fuel economy.

The 2022 to 2024 model years feature updated chassis tuning, enhanced sound insulation throughout the passenger cabin, and improved chassis rigidity. Standard equipment on most Japanese auction units includes the Honda Sensing safety suite, which adds automated emergency braking and lane assistance. These continuous factory refinements ensure the vehicle handles daily commuting across Mauritian roadways with exceptional comfort and peace of mind.

Most Popular Model Year/Generation

For Mauritian buyers importing from Japan in 2026, 2022-model vehicles should be a primary procurement target, subject to the applicable Mauritius age and import-eligibility requirements. Choosing a relatively recent model helps provide a good balance between Japanese-market depreciation, vehicle condition, resale appeal, and import compliance.

For this segment, the 1,496cc e:HEV hybrid configuration is a particularly attractive, strong-demand configuration because hybrid passenger cars in the 1,001–1,600cc category currently attract a 35% excise duty rate, compared with 55% for equivalent internal-combustion passenger cars, plus 15% VAT. This can make the hybrid configuration more cost-effective for Mauritian private buyers and fleet operators.

Quick Specs

Engine Options & Model Codes

1.5L e:HEV Hybrid (Chassis: RV5 / RV6) RECOMMENDED

The 1,496cc e:HEV hybrid setup is a particularly attractive choice for local driving conditions. It combines a 106 HP petrol engine with an electric motor outputting 131 HP, providing immediate torque delivery in city traffic. Because the engine displacement falls into the 1,001–1,600cc hybrid category, it benefits from a 35% excise duty rate rather than the 55% rate applied to non-hybrid equivalents, delivering meaningful tax savings alongside excellent long-term fuel efficiency.

1.5L L15Z Petrol (Chassis: RV3 / RV4)

The naturally aspirated 1,496cc petrol engine outputs 118 HP paired with a continuous variable transmission. While it usually commands a lower initial purchase price at Japanese auctions compared to the hybrid, it attracts the standard 55% excise duty rate for 1,001–1,600cc ICE vehicles and consumes more fuel in daily operation. It suits buyers who cover lower annual mileage or prefer a conventional mechanical setup without battery systems.

Interior & Practicality

Passenger Comfort

The cabin offers clear outward visibility, comfortable seating positions, and a user-friendly control layout. Physical dials for the climate control system allow easy adjustment while driving, and the air conditioning cools the cabin rapidly during hot summer months. The suspension is calibrated for urban comfort, absorbing road humps and rough tarmac patches effectively.

Cargo

The Vezel includes Honda's practical Magic Seat arrangement in the rear cabin. The rear seat cushions flip upward to create a tall storage space behind the front seats, while the seatbacks fold down flat to expand the main luggage area. This versatile cargo setup allows owners to transport bulky goods, outdoor gear, or luggage effortlessly.

Infotainment & Technology

JDM Head Units

An FM Band Expander is required for Japanese factory head units to pick up local radio stations in Mauritius. Most 2022 and newer models support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing drivers to display English navigation and media directly on the central screen.

Security

High. High market demand for Vezel components increases the risk of targeted theft. Installing a steering wheel lock and a concealed GPS tracker immediately after clearance is recommended to protect your vehicle.

Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs

Economy

The e:HEV hybrid powertrain returns between 20 and 24 km per litre under mixed urban and highway driving conditions. The standard petrol variant averages 14 to 16 km per litre.

Minor Service

Routine oil and filter changes every 10,000 km cost between 3,500 and 5,500 MUR using manufacturer-approved synthetic oil and original filters.

Spare Parts

Because the Vezel is imported in substantial numbers, replacement service parts are widely stocked by independent auto stores. Standard service components, brake pads, and suspension bushings are accessible and reasonably priced without long shipping delays.

Suitability for Mauritian Roads

Clearance

A ground clearance of 185 mm allows the Vezel to cross standard road humps and inclined driveways without undercarriage contact. It provides sufficient height for driving along uneven coastal roads or unpaved parking areas.

Theft Risk

High. High popularity makes the model a target for organized theft. Secure off-street parking is advised.

Safety & Reliability

The Honda Vezel holds a strong reputation for mechanical durability and low failure rates. Models from 2022 onward feature the Honda Sensing driver assistance suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure mitigation, and forward collision warning. Buyers should target an auction grade of 4.0 or higher in Japan to ensure the car has a clean structural history. A mandatory pre-shipment inspection must be completed prior to export.

💰Honda Vezel Price In Mauritius

* Prices listed above are average estimated landed costs and asking showroom prices in Port Louis, Curepipe, Grand Baie, and Ebene.

Import Taxation Strategy

* Taxation rates are applied based on engine capacity and powertrain classification under MRA guidelines.

The Ci Verdict

The 2022–2024 Honda Vezel is a practical compact crossover for drivers in Mauritius. It combines a versatile interior layout with efficient hybrid performance and strong market liquidity. Sourcing a 2022 hybrid model directly from Japanese auctions provides an attractive opportunity to secure a modern, low-mileage vehicle while managing overall import expenses.

For this segment, the e:HEV hybrid's 35% excise duty rate makes it notably more cost-effective from a taxation standpoint than equivalent 55% petrol models. Confirming clean auction inspection sheets and completing pre-shipment checks ensures your funds are protected throughout the import process.

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