Automotive Review South Africa

Welcome to the Honda WR-V, a brand new compact SUV

It might be a compact SUV, but it is by no means small. It could easily pass as a car or SUV in the medium-size category. Honda has a highly regarded pedigree in the SUV market and the introduction of the all-new WR-V adds to that. Remember the Jazz and the BR-V? The WR-V projects a smart, trendy and exciting persona that is certain to be well received by Honda aficionados.
Image credit: Naresh Maharaj
Image credit: Naresh Maharaj

From the bold exterior design to the spacious and practical interior, the WR-V is an entry-level SUV offering for consumers seeking a seamless combination of style, practicality and versatility.

The tech-savvy WR-V also boasts an abundance of safety, convenience, and connectivity features across the two-model range, making for an exceptionally comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. And perhaps most importantly, the price is competitive.

Comfortable interior

Once you are in the driver's seat, it’s hard to think that you are in a compact vehicle. The seats are finished in high-quality black fabric providing the perfect balance of comfort, support and durability. The commute is made enjoyable with a host of convenient features one has come to expect from Honda.

The dash is hard plastic and this is understandable when you try to keep the costs down, but soft-touch charcoal finishes emphasise the feel of the cabin, while the silver accents add to the simplicity of the interior.

Image credit: Naresh Maharaj
Image credit: Naresh Maharaj

The Elegance derivative I tested featured a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with audio controls on the left and speedo-cruise button on the right. Other small nuances included leather finishes for the gearshift knob and steering wheel.

The instrument panel of this new entrant is refined and features a trio of clear, circular dials with blue backlighting. Automatic air-conditioning is welcome as well as the intuitive touch-panel controls and front and rear electric windows.

Infotainment: at your fingertips

Whilst the Comfort model is equipped with a user-friendly five-inch LCD audio system featuring Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free telephony and audio streaming, USB connectivity and four loudspeakers, the Elegance model has a neatly incorporated seven-inch touchscreen display audio system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.

If you enjoy your music, the Elegance has an upgraded six-speaker system for you to pump up the volume.

Stylish exterior

The exterior design of the all-new WR-V makes it hard not to notice. The SUV exhibits a compact yet confident look and sets it apart from its competitors.

It’s true to say that the WR-V is immediately recognisable as a member of the Honda family. The design is bold, distinctive yet sporty and agile, especially with its raised SUV stance.

Plenty of boot space

Despite its compact footprint, the WR-V looks and feels spacious inside. It’s a comfortable five-seater.

The WR­V does not compromise on luggage capacity either, offering a generous 363l with the rear seats up, and an impressive 881l with the rear seats folded flat. The WR-V also incorporates Honda's ingenious 'Magic Seat' system borrowed from the popular Honda Jazz.

Four-cylinder petrol engine

The Honda WR-V range comprises two models, the Comfort and Elegance, both employing the same 1.2l powertrain and five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy has become an increasingly important consideration for many consumers who are in the market for an entry-level vehicle. Maximum power output is rated at 66kW, reached at 6000rpm. Fuel consumption in both local and long runs averaged around 6.4l/100km.

Pricing

  • WR-V 1.2 Comfort MT - R289,900
  • WR-V 1.2 Elegance MT - R319,900

Warranty and service plan

The new Honda WR-V comes standard with Honda's five-year/200,000km warranty, backed by a four-year/60,000km service plan as standard with service intervals every 15,000km. Three-year AA Roadside Assistance service is also included in the purchase price.

About Naresh Maharaj

Naresh Maharaj is a petrol head who loves cars and writing about them. He is also a Member of the SA Guild of Motoring Journalists. Naresh is also an international sports correspondent and an acclaimed corporate MC and voice-over artist. Naresh is a sports/news producer for community radio stations and also an award-winning sports journalist. Contact Naresh on moc.liamg@123jarahamn.
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