Long-termers
Honda has expanded its crossover offering and we’re ready to put it through its paces
The WR-V is exactly what Honda needs in its local line-up to compete against Far Eastern manufacturers offering budget Indian-sourced crossovers that fall under that country’s popular sub-four-metre segment. Based on monthly sales gures, these faux SUVS are currently all the rage as they offer increased ride height at an affordable price. But what exactly is the Honda WR-V offering for R319 900?
Essential comfort features such as LED headlamps, keyless entry, seven-inch touchscreen, reverse camera and a leather-trimmed steering wheel are standard on this model. More important, is its Magic Seat con guration for the rear bench as it offers commendable utility space that is easy to access thanks to wide-opening rear passenger doors and tailgate.
Accepting this is a brand-new product, I was quite surprised at how everything in this test unit was so tightly wound; the door, boot hinges and sun visors felt stiff and required a bit of force to use. I suspect this will change as the car, quite literally, loosens up over time. Despite this, the WR-V’S perceived quality on rst impression is commendable. Predominately plastic, the t and
nish along the dashboard, centre console and doors are satisfactory.
Where the WR-V does falter is in the performance department. Given it is sourcing power from a naturally aspirated 1,2-litre fourpot, good for 66 kw and 110 N.m, there is no expectation for it to feel in line with a Civic Type R; yet, after driving it around for a month, I understood why the brand opted to omit a claimed 0-100 km/h time (something we will endeavour to test in our three months with the vehicle). Although it’s a freerevving engine, there is minimal urgency when you boot the throttle. Pairing this with the stiff and somewhat imsy ve-speed gearshifter, I’ve found the WR-V’S drive dissatisfying.
The crossover shines in comfort levels, though, like most Indian-built products. Its 2 555 mm wheelbase, 188 mm ground clearance, thick pro le tyres and front Macpherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension setup deliver a supple ride over the bumpiest roads in Cape Town’s southern suburbs.
Upon rst inspection, the WR-V is a straightforward package; it doesn’t over-promise and, despite my criticisms regarding the engine’s performance, it is a charming little car. With the strength of the Honda badge and the success of the BR-V behind it, it will be interesting to witness how it fares this year in this hotly contested segment.