Honda presents the new WR-V with a 1.5 engine and standard Sensing package to intensify the SUV competition

Honda presents the new WR-V with 1.5 engine and standard Sensing package to intensify the SUV competition
Honda WR-V, SUV, Lançamento Honda, Honda Sensing, Mercado Automotivo

Honda officially announced the arrival of the new generation of WR-V on the national market, a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the competitive compact SUV segment. With production confirmed at the Itirapina factory, in São Paulo, the model has been completely redesigned and is now based on the same platform as the City and HR-V, promising more space, technology and safety. The big difference of the launch is the inclusion of the 1.5 naturally aspirated engine and the complete package of Honda Sensing safety technologies as standard items in all versions, positioning the vehicle aggressively against direct competitors such as the Fiat Pulse, Volkswagen Nivus and Renault Kardian.

Visually, the new WR-V adopts a more robust and imposing stance, with straight lines, a prominent front grille and an Full LED light package that gives the SUV a modern identity. The elevation of the body and the moldings on the wheel arches reinforce its adventurous proposal, completely distancing it from the design of the previous generation, which was derived from the Fit.

The Japanese automaker is betting heavily on the model to increase its sales volume in the country, targeting consumers who are looking for a versatile vehicle for urban use, but who do not want to give up a good equipment package and a generous trunk for family trips.

Engine and performance of the new SUV

Under the hood, the new Honda WR-V is equipped with the well-known 1.5 16V i-VTEC engine with direct fuel injection, the same package that powers the City lines and the entry-level version of the HR-V. Este propellant delivers a power of 126 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and a torque of 15.8 kgfm with ethanol, while with gasoline the figures are 15.5 kgfm. The choice for this engine aims to offer a balance between adequate performance and mechanical reliability, characteristics already consolidated by the brand.

The transmission is always a CVT automatic, which simulates seven gears and offers the option of manual shifting through paddle shifts behind the steering wheel. Segundo data released by Honda, the set is capable of taking the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 11.5 seconds, with a maximum speed of 175 km/h. The focus of the calibration is on comfort and smoothness of responses, making driving pleasant both in heavy city traffic and on highways.

Fuel consumption and range

According to data from Programa Brasileiro of Etiquetagem Veicular (PBEV), coordinated by Inmetro, the new WR-V presents competitive consumption figures for its category. Quando fueled with ethanol, the SUV records an average of 8.2 km/l in the urban cycle.

On the road, consumption with vegetable fuel improves, reaching 8.9 km/l.

Using gasoline, the model proves to be more efficient, reaching 12 km/l in the city and 12.8 km/l on the highway.

With a fuel tank with a capacity of 44 liters, the range of the Honda WR-V can reach 563 kilometers on trips, considering a full gasoline supply, a relevant factor for those planning long journeys.

Dimensions and internal space

The new platform allowed the WR-V to grow considerably, which is directly reflected in comfort and practicality. The SUV now measures 4,320 mm long, 1,790 mm wide and 1,650 mm tall, with a generous wheelbase of 2,650 mm.

These measures put it at an advantage over several direct competitors, especially when it comes to space for rear seat occupants.

One of the biggest highlights of the project is the trunk, which offers a capacity of 458 liters. Este volume easily exceeds the segment average and is close to higher category SUVs, making it an extremely attractive option for families.

Furthermore, versatility is increased by the good ground clearance of 22 centimeters, which makes it easier to overcome ditches and speed bumps, and by the suspension system calibrated for Brazilian road conditions, with a McPherson strut at the front and a torsion axle at the rear.

Standard equipment in the entry-level EX version

From its initial configuration, the EX, the new Honda WR-V arrives well equipped to stand out in the market. The list of standard items includes Full LED headlights and taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels with a diamond finish, digital and automatic air conditioning, face-to-face key with push-button start, instrument panel with a 7-inch digital screen and a 10-inch multimedia center with wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The main difference, however, is the inclusion of the Honda Sensing package, which adds adaptive cruise control (ACC), collision mitigation braking system (CMBS), lane keeping system (LKAS) and lane avoidance mitigation system (RDM), in addition to six airbags, traction and stability control and hill start assistant, establishing a new safety standard for the segment.

What the top-of-the-line EXL version offers the most

The top-of-the-line version, called EXL, adds comfort and sophistication to the already complete EX version package. Entre What sets it apart are LED fog lights, seats and steering wheel covered in high-quality leather, front and rear parking sensors, and a photochromic interior rear-view mirror.

Another exclusive feature of the EXL version is the myHonda Connect system. Using a smartphone application, the owner can access various remote functions of the vehicle, such as starting the engine, locking and unlocking the doors, checking the car’s location and receiving alert notifications in case of attempted theft.

Technology and security with the Honda Sensing package

Honda’s decision to equip all versions of the new WR-V with the Sensing package is one of the pillars of the launch. Esse suite of driver assistance technologies uses a long-range camera and a high-capacity processor to monitor the environment around the vehicle and help the driver avoid accidents.

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front, while the emergency braking system (CMBS) can apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a frontal collision. Essas features, previously restricted to more expensive vehicles, now become accessible in an entry-level SUV.

Market positioning and main competitors

The Honda WR-V enters one of the hottest categories in the Brazilian market with a clear proposal: to offer the most complete safety package and one of the largest trunks in the segment. Ele will face stiff competition from already established models such as the Fiat Pulse, Volkswagen Nivus, Chevrolet Tracker and the recently launched Renault Kardian, each with its own attributes. Honda’s strategy is to win over customers who value the brand’s reputation for durability and good after-sales, now combined with a modern product packed with technology from its most basic version.