Honda has revealed initial specifications of its new
WR-V. The compact crossover is slated to make its
Brazilian market debut in March before heading on to other South American
markets later in the year.
The automaker says the “Winsome Runabout Vehicle” –
which measures in at four metres long, 1.73 metres wide and 1.6 metres tall,
with a 2.55 metre-long wheelbase – will offer all the necessary versatility of
an SUV for urban use. Relevant figures include a 207 mm running height and good
angles of approach and departure, at 21º and 33º respectively.
The WR-V will be powered by a 1.5 litre
i-VTEC FlexOne engine, which is paired with an Earth Dreams CVT unit equipped
with a torque converter. With ethanol, the mill generates 116 hp at 6,000 rpm
and 150 Nm of twist at 4,800 rpm, and when fueled with gasoline, output numbers
are 115 hp at 6,000 rpm and 149 Nm at 4,800 rpm.
The WR-V’s rear axle is based on that found on the
HR-V, but has been redeveloped for the application here and brings high
stiffness for increased comfort and handling. The SUV also features an electric
power steering developed specifically for it, with a turning radius of 5.3
metres. It rides on dedicated 16-inch alloy wheels and tyres designed for it,
with the unique 195/60 tyres said to provide comfort and low vibration.
Inside, the cabin is same with Jazz, though Brazilian buyers will have two trim colour options to pick from,
in this case black/silver and black/orange. The brand’s Magic Seat system badged for that market as ULTRa Seats (Utility Long Tall Refresh) is to be
found.
The production of the WR-V will take place at the
automaker’s Sumaré factory in Sao Paulo, which also builds the Civic, HR-V,
City and Jazz for Brazil.
