Honda WRV

To take on the likes of Hyundai i20 active and Etios Cross, Honda has launched WR-V in Indian market in the price range of Rs7.67- 9.92 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The WR-V is based on the Jazz platform though it looks entirely different thanks to the beefed-up wheel arches, all-around cladding, and aggressive nose with thick slatted chrome grill. Interiors are made up of quality material and asymmetric theme of the Honda continues inside the WR-V also. There are many first-in-class features like sunroof and infotainment system with inbuilt Wi-Fi connectivity for luring millennials. Honda W-RV is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5-liter diesel engine capable of putting out 89PS/110 Nm and 100 PS/ 200 Nm respectively, mated to the 6-speed manual transmission with no automatic option available for now. Honda is offering WR-V in two trim levels -S and VX in both petrol and diesel guise.

At first glance, the Honda WR-V looks like the tougher cousin on the Jazz hatchback. Although it is based on the Jazz, the WR-V gets a completely redesigned nose and the bonnet now sits much higher and flatter. The front and rear bumpers look butch and get a faux skid plate as well. Although Honda has tried really hard to hide any resemblance to the Jazz, the side profile of the car will remind you of the hatchback. However, the WR-V stands tall with a ground clearance of 188mm, which is only 10mm less than the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza.

Despite looking tough from the outside, the WR-V’s cabin feels very similar to the Jazz’s interior. The first thing you’ll notice is the segment-fist sunroof, which when paired with the larger greenhouse amps up the sense of space. It can accommodate tall passengers quite easily as there is enough headroom and legroom. The seats, on the other hand, are quite soft and foamy, which is well and good for short distances but will give you some discomfort on long road trips. The top-spec WR-V comes with all the bells and whistles you’d expect. You get a smart key, push button start-stop, and cruise control. A 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation and voice controls can also mirror your smartphone and double up as the display for the rear parking camera.

The WR-V is offered with two engine options - a 1.5-litre diesel engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 1.2-litre petrol motor paired with a 5-speed manual. Like all other Hondas, the cross-hatch is an effortless drive. The diesel, although noisy, is the one that balances city and highway jaunts better.

The WR-V is offered in just two variants with each engine option. The VX trim offers additional goodies like one-touch open and close sunroof, fog lamps, 16-inch diamond cut alloys, multi view rear camera, six speakers, etc. The diesel variant gets two exclusive features - cruise control and passive keyless entry. The extra features offered in top-spec variants justify the Rs 1.25 lakh premium they command.

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza: The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza seems to be the biggest threat to the Honda WR-V. The Brezza offers a more engaging drive, can seat your entire family and gives you a much better SUV experience overall.

Ford EcoSport: The one that kicked off the segment in style. The EcoSport combines proper mini-SUV looks with sporty handling, top-shelf safety kit and a choice of three engine and two transmission options. There’s not much wrong with it, honestly.

Tata Nexon: Among the best vehicles to roll out of a Tata factory, the Nexon comes very close to acing the compact-SUV game. The funky styling, big 350-litre boot and some segment-firsts like an activity key make it a formidable force in the segment.

Hyundai i20 Active: Hyundai’s i20 Active is your friendly neighbourhood Elite i20 on stilts. It retains the plush interiors, the easy to drive nature and the host of tech. It’s nowhere close to being a SUV or a crossover, but is a fantastic cross-hatch nonetheless.

The WR-V borrows quite a lot from the Jazz but manages to stand tall on its own toes. It’s got space, it’s efficient and has the right amount of feel-good features. Then there’s Honda’s reputation for reliability. Also, it’s your only option if you want a cross-hatch with a sunroof. So, there.