Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Honda Freed 2017, a compact MPV that was quite the hit in Indonesia. If you're looking for a practical family car that's easy to maneuver and offers decent space, the Freed might just be the ticket. Let's break down what makes this car tick, its strengths, its weaknesses, and whether it's still a good buy in the used car market.

Overview of the Honda Freed 2017

The Honda Freed 2017 is a mini MPV known for its distinctive boxy design and sliding doors, which are a godsend in tight parking spots. Introduced to the Indonesian market, it aimed to offer a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and Honda's renowned reliability. It's positioned as a versatile vehicle suitable for daily commutes, family outings, and even the occasional long road trip. The Freed's unique selling point was its ability to offer a relatively spacious interior within a compact footprint, making it an attractive option for urban dwellers.

Design and Features

The exterior design of the Freed is, well, unique. Its boxy shape maximizes interior space, while the sliding doors on both sides make getting in and out a breeze, especially in crowded areas. The front fascia features a clean, straightforward design with halogen headlights and a simple grille. Depending on the trim level, you might find features like fog lights and alloy wheels. The rear is equally boxy, with large taillights that enhance visibility.

Inside, the Freed offers a functional and practical layout. The dashboard is simple and easy to use, with controls logically placed. The seats are comfortable, and the higher trims come with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, though it might feel a bit dated by today's standards. The key highlight is the spaciousness. Even with all seats in place, there's still enough room for luggage, and folding down the rear seats creates a cavernous cargo area. The sliding doors also make accessing the rear seats incredibly convenient, especially for families with young children or elderly passengers.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Honda Freed 2017 in Indonesia typically comes with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine. This engine is known for its balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It produces around 118 horsepower, which is adequate for city driving and comfortable cruising on the highway. The engine is paired with either a 5-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and predictable shifts.

Handling is decent for a car of this type. The Freed is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, thanks to its compact size and good visibility. The suspension is tuned for comfort, so it absorbs bumps and potholes reasonably well. However, don't expect sporty handling; the Freed is designed more for practicality and comfort than spirited driving. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to navigate through city traffic. Overall, the Freed offers a pleasant driving experience, especially for daily commutes and family trips.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the strong points of the Honda Freed 2017 is its fuel efficiency. The 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine is designed to be economical, and in real-world conditions, you can expect to get around 12-15 kilometers per liter in the city and 16-18 kilometers per liter on the highway. Of course, fuel consumption will vary depending on driving style and traffic conditions, but overall, the Freed is a relatively fuel-efficient MPV.

This makes it a great option for those who need a spacious vehicle without wanting to spend a fortune on fuel. Considering the rising fuel prices, this is definitely a significant advantage. The Freed's fuel efficiency, combined with its practicality, makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious families.

Comfort and Space

As mentioned earlier, comfort and space are where the Freed truly shines. The cabin is designed to maximize space, and even taller passengers will find ample headroom and legroom. The seats are comfortable, and the ride quality is generally good, even on rough roads. The sliding doors make getting in and out of the rear seats incredibly easy, which is a huge plus for families with young children or elderly relatives.

The rear seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area, making the Freed surprisingly versatile. Whether you're hauling groceries, luggage, or even small furniture, the Freed can handle it with ease. The spacious interior and comfortable ride make it a great car for long road trips, ensuring that everyone stays comfortable throughout the journey.

Common Issues and Maintenance

Like any car, the Honda Freed 2017 has its share of potential issues. Some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission, so it's essential to have it inspected before buying a used model. Other common issues include worn suspension components and minor electrical problems. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the Freed running smoothly.

Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, as Honda parts are widely available and relatively affordable. Following the recommended service schedule and addressing any issues promptly can help prevent more significant problems down the road. It's also a good idea to check the car's service history before buying a used Freed to ensure that it has been properly maintained.

Is the Honda Freed 2017 a Good Buy in 2024?

So, is the Honda Freed 2017 a good buy in 2024? The answer depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a practical, fuel-efficient, and spacious MPV with a reputation for reliability, the Freed is definitely worth considering. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in the city, while its spacious interior and sliding doors make it ideal for families.

However, keep in mind that the Freed is not without its drawbacks. The design is a bit dated, and the performance is not particularly exciting. Also, some owners have reported issues with the transmission and other components, so it's crucial to have the car inspected before buying. Overall, if you can find a well-maintained Freed at a reasonable price, it can be a great value for money.

Pros:

• Spacious interior: Offers ample room for passengers and cargo.
• Sliding doors: Make getting in and out easy, especially in tight spaces.
• Fuel-efficient: The 1.5-liter engine provides good fuel economy.
• Reliable: Honda is known for its reliability, and the Freed is no exception.
• Easy to maneuver: Compact size makes it great for city driving.

Cons:

• Dated design: The boxy design may not appeal to everyone.
• Average performance: The 1.5-liter engine is adequate but not exciting.
• Potential transmission issues: Some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission.

Alternatives to the Honda Freed

If the Honda Freed 2017 doesn't quite fit the bill, there are several alternatives to consider in the compact MPV segment. The Toyota Sienta is a popular choice, offering a similar blend of practicality and fuel efficiency. The Suzuki Ertiga is another option, known for its affordability and spacious interior. Other alternatives include the Daihatsu Xenia and the Mitsubishi Xpander, both of which offer good value for money.

When considering alternatives, think about your needs and preferences. Do you prioritize fuel efficiency, space, reliability, or styling? Compare the features, specifications, and prices of different models to determine which one is the best fit for you. Reading reviews and talking to other owners can also provide valuable insights.

Conclusion

The Honda Freed 2017 remains a practical and reliable choice for families in Indonesia seeking a compact MPV. Its spacious interior, fuel-efficient engine, and convenient sliding doors make it well-suited for city driving and family outings. While it may have some drawbacks, such as its dated design and potential transmission issues, these can be mitigated by thorough inspection and regular maintenance. If you're in the market for a used MPV, the Freed is definitely worth a look.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive review of the Honda Freed 2017 in Indonesia. Hopefully, this has helped you make a more informed decision. Happy car hunting, guys!