Honda WR-V vs Hyundai Active i20 vs Volkswagen Cross Polo vs Toyota Etios Cross: Comprehensive Comparison

The Honda WRV is the latest entrant in the sub-Rs 10 lakh compact-SUV/crossover segment. Like many cars in the segment, the WRV is also based on a hatchback; the Jazz in this case. We have already compared the WRV to the sub-4m compact SUVs in this segment before and now we take a look at how it fares against its more direct competition.

Recommended Read: Honda WRV Launched! Check out the prices here!

Design

The WRV stands out among the competition here because it looks starkly distinct from its hatchback sibling; at least from the front.

Inside, the Volkswagen Cross Polo has the most sedate design, followed by the Hyundai Active i20. The use of plasticky interior trim on the WR-V and the Etios Cross make these look less appealing. 

Dimensions

While the Honda WRV is the longest and tallest car in this comparison, the Hyundai Active i20 is the widest and has the longest wheelbase. The WRV has the best compromise between passenger space and luggage space in this comparison, but it may be easier for people to sit side-by-side in the Active i20.

Diesel Engine and Transmission

Comparing the diesel motors, the WRV's 1.5-litre, turbocharged, in-line 4-cylinder unit develops the most power, but the Cross Polo develops the most torque at a lower rpm. The WRV has the most efficient engine in this comparison, based on manufacturer-claimed numbers, followed by the Etios Cross.

Petrol Engine and Transmission

In terms of on-paper performance, the Toyota Etios Cross has the most powerful/torquey motor in this comparison, though it is available only on the top-of-the-line 'V' variant. The Etios Cross 'G' variant, powered by the smaller 1.2-litre motor is the most efficient in this comparison, followed by the Hyundai Active i20.

Recommended Read: Honda WRV First Drive Review

Price

(ex-showroom Delhi prices)

Stand Out Features

The Honda WRV has to beat the Hyundai Active i20 to be seen as a value-for-money buy in this segment. 

Comparing the top-of-the-line diesel variants, the price difference between the WRV VX and the Active i20 is Rs 22,000. The WRV gets a one-touch sunroof, touch-panel for climate control and cruise control unlike the Active i20. The Active i20, on the other hand, gets projector headlamps, rear AC vents, auto-folding ORVMs (linked to door lock/unlock) and a segment-only six-airbags which the WRV misses out on. The slightly more affordable Active i20 seems to make more sense on paper, though a real world head-to-head comparison is needed for a proper verdict.