Honda WR-V

Model Overview

The Honda WR-V is an entry-level A-segment compact crossover SUV positioned below the Vezel (HR-V/Vezel). The nameplate stands for "Winsome Runabout Vehicle", signifying an engaging and nimble urban runabout. In November 2022, the all-new generation WR-V made its global debut in Indonesia. Developed by Honda R&D Asia Pacific in Thailand, the model is produced in Rajasthan, India. In December 2023, the WR-V entered the Japanese market via reverse import.

As of June 2026, the core offering in showrooms is the mid-life facelift launched in March 2025. In Japan, the 2024 model carried a starting price of 2.09 million yen (approx. RM125,400), with the range-topper priced at 2.48 million yen (approx. RM148,800); following the 2025 facelift, the entry price was revised to 2.398 million yen (approx. RM116,000). In the Indonesian market, prices range between IDR 272 million and IDR 310 million (approx. RM82,400 to RM94,000).

Design Language

The exterior styling of the WR-V adopts a rugged approach—characterised by an upright front fascia, high ground clearance, and a flat roofline that exude a distinct outdoor adventure appeal. The front end sports a generous smoked honeycomb grille housing the Honda emblem, flanked by LED headlamp clusters linked by a sleek chrome strip. A crisp shoulder line extends seamlessly from front to rear, complemented by subtle wide-body wheel arch claddings. Integrated roof rails further reinforce its crossover credentials. The 2025 BLACK STYLE special edition adds blacked-out finishes to the door handles, side mirror caps, 17-inch alloy wheels, and shark fin antenna. Inside, the WR-V takes a pragmatic and utilitarian approach. The BLACK STYLE variant features an all-black theme with dual-material combination seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and piano black trim accents. Mid- to high-spec variants gain soft-touch materials below the dashboard and on the rear door panels.

Powertrain and Performance

The entire WR-V lineup is powered by a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, producing a maximum output of 87–89 kW (118–121 PS) and 142–145 Nm of peak torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels exclusively via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with a 7-speed virtual stepped mode, with no manual transmission option offered. All variants are front-wheel drive (FWD). In terms of fuel economy, the combined fuel consumption on the WLTC cycle is approximately 6.1 L/100 km; the Japan-spec model averages between 16.2 and 16.4 km/L. Fuel tank capacity is rated at 40 litres.

Chassis and Handling

Under the skin, the WR-V shares its platform with the Honda BR-V and City. The suspension setup comprises front MacPherson struts with an anti-roll bar and a rear H-shaped torsion beam. Steering is managed by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, offering a tight turning radius of just 5.3 metres. Ground clearance varies across markets: 195 mm for the Japan-spec and selected Southeast Asian versions, compared to 220 mm on earlier Indonesian-market units. The 16-inch wheels are wrapped in 195/60 R16 tyres. The chassis tuning is noticeably biased towards ride comfort.

Cabin and Features

The WR-V features a practical five-seater cabin layout. In terms of dimensions, the Japan-spec variant measures 4,325 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, and 1,650 mm in height, with a 2,650 mm wheelbase; the Indonesian-spec model measures 4,060 mm long, 1,780 mm wide, and 1,608 mm tall, with a 2,485 mm wheelbase. Courtesy of its extended wheelbase, the Japan-spec version offers exceptionally generous rear legroom that rivals several C-segment SUVs. Boot capacity stands at 458 litres, expanding to 2,181 litres with the rear seats folded down.

In terms of equipment, standard fitments across the range include a 7-inch digital instrument display, Honda CONNECT navigation system, automatic climate control with rear air vents, steering paddle shifters, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Higher-spec variants add a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, a power sunroof, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The central touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the WR-V secured a full five-star rating with an overall score of 90% in JNCAP crash safety assessments. The Japan-spec model and selected high-spec variants come standard with the Honda SENSING suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Key features include: Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Auto High Beam (AHB), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), and Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN). Selected variants also come equipped with Blind Spot Information (BSI) and the Honda LaneWatch camera system. For passive safety, range-topping variants are fitted with 6 airbags, while entry-level models feature 4 airbags. A rear occupant detection system is also included to prevent children from being inadvertently left behind in the vehicle.

Market Performance and Reception

The WR-V has demonstrated strong commercial traction in global markets. In Japan, it garnered 13,000 bookings within just one month of its launch in 2024—more than four times its initial monthly target of 3,000 units. In Malaysia, cumulative sales surpassed the 10,000-unit milestone in less than a year after its official debut.

In China, as Honda already fields two small SUV offerings in the form of the Vezel and XR-V, the WR-V is not slated for local introduction. Within its class, key rivals to the WR-V include the Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky, and Perodua Ativa. Built around practicality and everyday usability, the WR-V has successfully carved out a solid market presence across Southeast Asia and Japan by offering generous cabin space, a comprehensive safety suite, a reliable powertrain, and competitive pricing.