The Honda WR-V was the brand’s answer to subcompact SUVs in India but it was more of a cross-hatchback and also competed with such offerings. The Volkswagen Cross Polo, Hyundai i20 Active and even the Fiat Punto Avventura were once products that competed in this segment. Sadly, cross-hatchbacks never made it big and the WR-V remains the only contender sharing its roots with the Honda Jazz. The rugged model was a notable success for Honda India and the company is all set to give it another update, going by the latest spy images. The images show the updated WR-V at a company or dealer yard and it is likely that the model may arrive later in the year.
The Honda WR-V got its last update in 2020 with the BS6 emissions transition and the new nip and tuck seems to be aimed at keeping the model solely relevant in the market. The images show a reworked grille and projector headlamps with lEDs, while the profile and rear remain the same. The taillights could see a new pattern in the interest of keeping things fresh. The front bumper has been revised with the fog lamps moved lower down. The cabin is expected to remain largely the same but could see a new infotainment system and more features over the current model. Also expect to see new upholstery on the updated WR-V.
Apart from cosmetic and feature changes, the Honda WR-V will continue with the same mechanicals. This includes the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine. It only gets manual gearboxes on both engines. The WR-V though is limited in variants with each engine getting two variants and prices remain steep starting from Rs. 9 lakh for the V petrol, up to Rs. 12.20 lakh for the VX diesel.
Compared to the Jazz, the Honda WR-V gets a rugged body kit, higher ground clearance, roof rails and newer alloy wheels. It also gets a sunroof, making it one of the most accessible cars in the country with that feature. There’s no word on when the updated WR-V will go on sale but we expect to see the same in showrooms around the festive season. It will also help Honda stay in people’s minds in the segment till the upcoming subcompact SUV takes shape.
Honda is working on a new sub 4-metre SUV and a compact SUV for India – PF2 and PF2S. Both models should arrive next year onwards and will be extremely crucial to the brand’s future strategy in the country.
