Size does matter

Honda introduces compact WR-V SUV in Indonesia

AYEAR AGO, Honda displayed the SUV RS Concept as a preview of a new compact SUV model to come. It was clear that the carmaker had seen the growth of the compact SUV segment with the entry of models like the Toyota Raize/Daihatsu Rocky and in Malaysia, the Perodua equivalent known as the Ativa.

It wanted a slice of that market and has developed its first small SUV for the Asean market.

The model, known as the WR-V, recently made its global debut in Jakarta, which will also be the production hub. Measuring 4060mm in overall length and 1780mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2485mm, the WR-V is positioned below the HR-V. It is shorter than the BR-V but has slightly more width to make up.

The design follows much of that used for the SUV RS Concept though some of the styling elements on the concept model have been omitted.

Nevertheless, the WR-V still possesses a sporty image, with a front grille that carries a futuristic tesselated design similar to the latest HR-V’s.

Though the exterior dimensions are compact, the interior designers have intelligently packaged the interior to ensure comfortable space for the occupants.

Knee room has been maximised along headroom and legroom and Honda says its dimensions are the largest in its class.

A combination of leather and fabric is used for seat upholstery and some variants also come with a leather-covered centre console box with armrests.

The cockpit layout has been planned in a way to provide ample space for the driver to view all the important information on a 4.2-inch TFT screen as well as a 7-inch colour touchscreen at the centre of the dashboard.

The infotainment system has a choice of connectivity options, including Smartphone Connection and Hands-Free Telephony.

For convenience, the WR-V is also equipped with the Walk-Away Auto Lock which lock the doors automatically a few moments after the driver has walked at least 2ms or more from the car.

The owner can also start the engine from a distance to switch on the air-conditioning and cool down the cabin before entry. Definitely a nice feature to have in our hot climate!

As with other Honda models, the capacity of the WR-V’s i-VTEC engine is also 1.5 litres. It produces 121ps/145Nm which goes through a CVT to the front wheels. G-design shift technology gives stronger acceleration and, at the same time, increased fuel efficiency of 4%.

Honda’s suite of active safety systems known as Honda Sensing is available on the RS variant of the WR-V. Its integrated systems make use of a camera mounted on the top of the windscreen to scan the road ahead and identify potential hazards. Where necessary, the driver will be alerted first and if no action is taken, automatic braking may take place.

Although it is known that Honda will discontinue its LaneWatch blindspot system (above) due to high cost, it still seems to offer the innovative feature in Asean models. With LaneWatch, the driver has a realtime image of the left side of the vehicle on the display screen.

The price range for the WR-V in Indenesia is from Rp.271,900,000 to Rp.309,900,000 (about RM83,350 to RM93,850). The pricing is competitive in Indonesia against class rivals but would be tricky in Malaysia with the Ativa having a price advantage.

Nevertheless, Honda Malaysia might feel confident that the brand is strong and there will be people who want only a Honda, even if it costs more.