23 December 2009 - Imagine a Multi Utility Vehicle that features Honda's legendary fit and finish, innovations developed by the same company that invented the ATV, and technologies that blend Honda's vast automobile expertise with new ideas designed to revolutionize the class.

Honda’s new MUV – Big Red – has hit the tough Aussie market and is already proving its mettle by taking on the country’s diverse range of conditions in its stride.

What sets Big Red apart from other similar vehicles is Honda's focus on quality and convenience, which makes this MUV enjoyable whether you're running a property, a worksite or heading to your favourite fishing spot. At the very heart of Big Red is a powerful four-stroke liquid-cooled OHV 675cc engine that feeds power to the wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission. Its single-cylinder powerplant and four-valve cylinder head design provides a broad powerband for plenty of grunt.

A key element in this engine's consistent and convenient performance is Honda's programmed fuel injection system. Beginning with a marked increase in power output, other benefits include crisp throttle response; improved fuel consumption; easy cold starting and smoother idle control, thanks to the Idle Air Control Valve.

A liquid-cooled oil cooler aids heat dispersion in Big Red's engine. The liquid in this system warms quicker than the engine oil, so it also helps to speed the warm-up process on cold days. Additionally, Big Red features a high-mount radiator located behind the front grill where mud is less likely to clog the fins.

Big Red incorporates an automotive-style transmission that features a hydraulic torque converter, three hydraulic clutches and an ECM to automatically select one of three forward gears or reverse.

With a convenient, dash-mounted drive selector, selectable drive modes include 2WD with open rear differential for sensitive terrain and lawns, 4WD with rear differential lock for rough conditions and 4WD with all-wheel differential lock, when you need that something extra to get home.

Big Red also incorporates a shaft final drive, which helps to provide positive engine braking, whilst the hydraulic disc brakes provide predictable stopping power, and feature a balanced automotive-style design that ensures front and rear braking even in the event that one brake line fails for some unexpected reason.

Big Red's roomy cab features rubber-mounted seats with adjustable backs designed to comfortably fit a wide range of body types while also reducing fatigue on long drives. The MUV’s uniquely designed, four-pillar Occupant Protection Structure also provides occupants with further safety. Big Red's interior features useful touches such as a waterproof accessory socket ideally placed between the bucket seats for easy access to 12-volt power, a glove box and dash storage for quick access to small items. Honda engineers paid particular attention to minimizing maintenance chores and, in addition to equipping it with a maintenance- free battery and shaft final drive, the engine oil-filler and dipstick are conveniently located under the driver's seat, which detaches quickly. Access to the air filter is as easy as lifting the tilt-bed, which reveals the high-mounted air filter box.

Big Red boasts fully independent front and rear suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, a wide track for confidence-inspiring handling and a host of available accessories designed to deliver long-lasting durability for commercial and recreational applications.The tilting bed of Big Red is made for working: it boasts a 227 kg load capacity and features a steel frame for strength. The bed is sheathed in a tough, moulded polypropylene top plate, and a standard cargo pallet fits flat with room to spare. It also features rounded corners for easy cleanup, four handy D-rings for securing cargo, and a progressive-action strut assist system make raising and lowering the bed a simple task.

A heavy-duty receiver-style hitch with 544 kg towing capacity allows Big Red to take on any number of jobs, and its multi-reflector headlight system and LED brake light and taillight provide optimal illumination should your chores- or adventures- take you into the evening.

Featuring multiple patents and numerous automotive-based technologies, Big Red sets new standards with its work capability as well as its ability to open the door to outdoor adventure! Available at selected Dealers nationally, MSRP is $19,990.

www.hondamotorcycles.com.au
Dealer Locator: 1 300 1 HONDA

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