After a short teasing campaign, Honda decided to finally unveil its smallest yet crossover the WR-V on the Sao Paulo Motor Show in Brazil. Honda showed that the South American region is very important to them, and Honda CEO Takahiro Hachigo stated that this vehicle has been developed especially for this continent and will go on sale next year.
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The Honda WR-V has one purpose, and that is to compete with the Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster. That is exactly why they based the WR-V on the Fit but added unique features and styling that hosts large headlights with incorporated LED daytime running lights, chromed hexagonal front grille which is surrounded by small air intakes in the bumper and round fog lamps to complete its new face. The back side of the car is also familiar with the highlighted L-shaped taillights, and a sporty diffuser integrated into the bumper. The technical characteristics of the vehicle are kept a secret by Honda who only stated that this is both “tough and urban” designed crossover with “excellent utility and a spacious cabin within a compact body size, outstanding fuel economy and stable handling performance”.
Since the Honda will not disclose the official info, we can only presume that since it is based on the Fit, that it most likely host its 1.5-liter petrol engine with 116 HP (87 kilowatts) paired to a five-speed manual gearbox or a CVT. Honda CEO Mr. Hachigo started presenting the WR-V with these words “Ever since we began business in Brazil in 1971, Honda has been supported by a total of 24 million customers in Brazil through their purchase of our motorcycles, automobiles and power products.” He also added, “Introduction of this all-new WR-V is a testament to Honda’s commitment to the South American market, and we will continue to deliver more products unique to Honda that please our customers.” All of this shows the perfect bond that over time creates between the manufacturer and the customer, and Honda truly has the loyalty of their buyers on this continent and every other. That just shows how good and committed they are to what they do.
As advertised, this subcompact crossover will be available in the Brazilian market in the first half of 2017, with sales starting around the continent shortly after.
