• Honda's new WR-V is a new entry into the compact SUV segment.
• It is available in two models: Comfort and Elegance.
• One engine is on offer, a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated with 66kW and 110Nm.
Honda South Africa's WR-V, an entry-level SUV, is now available. The two-model range is made up of Comfort and Elegance models.
"The WR-V makes its debut in the entry SUV segment, which is the fastest-growing and most competitive segment of the market,"says Yuishi Fukuda, president of Honda Motor Southern Africa.
Honda says almost 18% of the new local passenger car market is made up of the entry SUV segment, that translates just over 50 000 units a year and it's showing no sign of slowing down.
The Elegance model is equipped with LED projector headlamps and LED fog lights over the Comfort model's Halogen Projectors and fog lights, both of which are sleek, precise and functional.
The WRV offers 363 litres with the rear seats up, and an impressive 881 litres with the rear seats folded flat.
Honda's "Magic Seat" system borrowed from the Jazz and HR-V is also present in the WR-V. The Magic Seats can be configured in several different ways to accommodate a variety of tall and long objects.
In 'Tall Mode', the Magic Seats make it easy to accommodate upright objects, allowing a floor-to-roof space of more than 1.2 metres.
In this configuration, two mountain bikes with their front wheels removed can be transported upright simultaneously. Long Mode allows for extended-length objects up to 2.4 metres, Honda says.
Both models feature a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with audio controls. The Elegance model gains leather finishes for the gearshift knob and steering wheel.
Both models feature automatic air-conditioning as well as front and rear electric windows.
The Comfort model features a 12cm LCD audio system featuring Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free telephony and audio streaming, USB connectivity and four loudspeakers. The Elegance model has a 17cm touchscreen display audio system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
In addition, the Elegance gains an upgraded six speaker system.
Both models benefit from rear parking sensors while the Elegance gains an integrated reverse parking camera.
On the Elegance cruise control and smart keyless entry with push button start is also available.
Maximum power output is rated at 66kW and 110Nm. Both models are equipped with a five-speed manual gearbox.
The colour line-up for the new WR-V includes a new Platinum White (Pearl), Radiant Red (Metallic), Lunar Silver (Metallic) and Modern Steel (Metallic)
It is sold with five-year or 200 000km warranty and a four-year or 60 000km service plan as standard.
1.2 Comfort MT - R289 900
1.2 Elegance MT - R319 900