The second-generation Honda WR-V is a new challenger in the currently trending sub-compact SUV class.
A few months ago marked the world premiere of the second-generation Honda WR-V. It’s essentially the brand’s smallest SUV currently being sold and produced exclusively in Indonesia — a country where the sub-compact crossover segment just boomed recently. But due to the incredibly positive market response, Honda is planning to introduce its baby SUV to more countries this year, which is a step up from last-gen’s WR-V that was never sold outside Brazil and India.
So, with the prospect that you might eventually see Honda’s latest crossover arriving in your country, let’s look at what the new WR-V has to offer.
How Small is Small?
There’s no denying the WR-V’s compact size. Measuring just 159.8 x 70.1 x 63.3 inches (L x W x H), you can almost see it as a slightly taller Honda Fit. However, unlike the first-gen model that was quite literally a jacked-up version of the Fit, the new WR-V now sits on a fresh platform derived from its 7-seater counterpart, the Honda BR-V.
Being the smallest amongst Honda’s 5-seater crossover line, the WR-V also becomes a compelling alternative to those who desire a smaller HR-V or CR-V. It offers improved maneuverability and better fuel efficiency at a lower price without sacrificing many SUV qualities.
In the States, the WR-V would compete directly with other pint-sized crossovers like the Ford EcoSport, Nissan Kicks, and Hyundai Venue. Although this vehicle class may not be the best for highway cruising (due to their lack of overtaking power), these tiny crossovers are champs when it comes to scooting around town while sipping fuel.
Cute or Handsome – Why Not Both?
Exterior-wise, the WR-V looks delightful from every angle. Despite the cute size, it still has a dense masculine presence, especially with its beefy fenders, skid plates, and matte black accents all over the lower body. Moreover, with its short overhangs and a tall ground clearance (8.7 inches), the little Honda should handle some light off-roading just fine. Though, it could use an AWD system to boost its all-terrain ability.
While it looks pretty subtle, there are some unmissable funky touches. For instance, I like how the second-row door handles are ‘hidden’ by the c-pillar to make it seem like a 3-door crossover instead of revealing its true 5-door form. Also, choosing the top-spec RS trim gets you the black-painted roof option, chrome dotted front grille and cool 17-inch alloys.
Inside, the cabin is dominated in black with red stitches, creating a sporty vibe. The dashboard is minimalist and functional, with all the buttons nicely laid out. And although the excessive use of plastic here is expected from its low price tag, you can still find soft leather materials in frequently touched areas, such as the seats, steering wheel, armrest, and shift lever – nice!
Surprisingly Roomy
You might think the small WR-V would suffer from a cramped interior and insufficient cargo space, but that’s not necessarily the case. The passenger space is plenty at the front and rear, with surprisingly ample head and knee room. Sure, it’s not CR-V spacious, but four adults (or two adults + three children at the back) should be able to sit comfortably in the WR-V without feeling claustrophobic.
Moreover, you’ll have 13.5 cubic feet of cargo room with the 60/40 split-folding rear seats up and about twice as much when they’re down. While it’s not particularly class-leading, the boot opening is wide, and the floor goes pretty deep, so you can still fit a few carry-on suitcases, a stroller, or even a golf bag with no issue. Though it would’ve been nicer if Honda implemented its glorious rear Magic Seat found in the previous-gen Fit or HR-V – come on, Honda, you could’ve at least made the back seats fold flat!
Thankfully, the latest WR-V is still generous regarding storage compartments. Deep pockets are present on each door and behind the rear seats, and the glove box and center console are pretty spacious. In addition, the six cupholders are easily more than enough in such a vehicle.
Punchy Little Motor for the Weight
The new WR-V is currently offered with just one engine and transmission variant. Under the hood lies a compact 1.5-liter i-VTEC inline-4 unit, producing 119 hp and 107 lb-ft (145 Nm) of torque. That motor is paired to a CVT gearbox sending all its power to the front wheels.
While numbers may not be that impressive on paper, it’s worth noting Honda’s L15ZF engine still has its strengths. Not only it’s one of the brand’s most reliable and easy-to-maintain engines, but it’s also pretty nippy at high revs, capable of sending the 2,200 lbs. crossover to 60 mph in a modest 10.7 seconds.
Moreover, Honda’s CVT is a fairly clever system that excels at keeping the engine revving efficiently. As a result, you can expect smooth acceleration and satisfying fuel economy from the WR-V. Given how economical the previous Honda Fit was with a similar weight and powertrain setup, hitting 40 MPG shouldn’t be hard in this tiny SUV.
Trims and Pricing
The 2023 Honda WR-V is offered in two main trims for the Indonesian market — E and RS. With only one powertrain option, what separates the RS from the entry-level E is the improved cosmetics and the ability to opt for Honda Sensing, which includes several driving assistant features. Here’s the price breakdown and equipment list for each trim:
E
Starting price: IDR279.4 million ($18,534 US)
Highlighted features:
- 16-inch single-tone alloy wheels
- Remote engine start
- Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill-Start Assist
- 4 airbags
- Multi-angle rear parking camera
- 7-inch infotainment screen w/ Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 4 speakers
- Black interior w/ fabric seats
RS
Starting Price: IDR297.4 million ($19,728 US)
Highlighted features:
- All in E
- LED headlights with DRLs
- Walk-away auto lock
- Chrome-accented front grille
- Black roof rails
- 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels
- Meter cluster with 4.2-inch TFT display
- Automatic climate control
- 6 speakers
- Black/red interior w/ leather seats
- Two-tone exterior color option
RS with Honda Sensing
Starting Price: IDR317.4 million ($21,071 US)
Highlighted features:
- All in RS
- Honda Sensing (incl. Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lead Departure Notification System, and Auto High Beam)
- Honda LaneWatch (a camera on the left wing mirror that can display feed into the head unit)
- 6 airbags
- Automatic headlight
- USB ports
Last Words
At a time when sub-compact SUVs are starting to creep up in price, the latest-gen WR-V surfaced as one of the more affordable options. But unlike in the past when cheap vehicles tended to have many flaws, this new baby SUV actually feels just as refined as its pricier rivals. With such great value for money, the new Honda WR-V is a friendly reminder that there’s no better time to drive cheap.
Although there aren’t any rumors yet about its arrival to the US, I genuinely hope Japanese crossover finds its way into the States and encourages its competitors to offer even better products for the same price — fingers crossed for that!
How about you? Do you like what Honda did with the WR-V? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
Learn more at Honda Indonesia’s website
Gallery: 2023 Honda WR-V
