WR-V: Honda's new compact SUV

Honda Automóveis do Brasil will expand its range of SUVs marketed in the country with the launch of the compact SUV utility WR-V in March this year. Combining unique features of versatility and agility in a compact size, the unprecedented vehicle will be the newest member of the family that also includes the renowned HR-V and CR-V models.

With a project led by the Research and Development team of Honda Automóveis do Brasil, WR-V brings the brand's global DNA, which seeks, in all its vehicles, to put the human being at the center of its development, with excellence in quality.

In its creation, Honda studied important Brazilian markets and found the characteristics that are most sought after by consumers who have an active lifestyle, collecting their preferences in design, performance, internal space and cost-benefit.

As a result of this work, Honda created the concept called "Little Giant", which translates into a sturdy SUV with a compact body but which brings ample internal space and versatility, coupled with low fuel consumption. Its purpose is to meet a wide range of consumers who are looking for a pleasurable car for daily driving in cities, but also comfortable for travel.

The WR-V is an important milestone in the history of Honda Automobiles in Brazil, which in 2017 celebrates 20 years of manufacturing in the country. The vehicle is the first automobile with development led by the R & D area in the country and will be produced at the Sumaré factory, in the interior of São Paulo, along with Civic, HR-V, City and Fit.

Robust design

The WR-V's external design highlights the robustness of the SUV based on the "Wild Armor" concept, created specifically for this model. It is reflected in an elevated, striking, front-grille front that evokes Honda's SUV line, with expressive headlamp design with LED daytime running lights (DRL).

The WR-V features an engaging design, with trapezoidal shape patterns - an SUV design signature - replicated in various parts of the SUV, such as the front lower grille, wheels, mudframes, and other Key points of the model, which results in a harmonic and attractive design.

The rear design and its side bring more horizontal strokes and lanterns that extend through the waist line. Its design brings a lot of harmony of proportions, with wide wheelbase, good running height and wheel / tire set with large diameter. It is complemented by the chrome trim on the back cover and by the bumper with strong frames.

Dynamic and versatile

One of the great challenges in the development of the WR-V was to reconcile the versatility of a sport utility with the agility of a compact car.

The WR-V's dynamic set is designed to allow ground clearance, free throw and tackle and exit angles consistent with an SUV's proposal without compromising the comfort and agility of a compact model.

With a 2.55 m wheelbase, 4 m long, 1.73 m wide and 1.6 m high, the WR-V brings compact measures that make it agile driving in large urban centers. The 17.9 cm of free space in the ground and the angles of attack and output of 21º and 33º, guarantee good dynamics, even in more irregular floors.

The suspension adopts shock absorbers with hydraulic stop and cylinder diameter reinforced, robust stabilizer bar, designed to minimize the roll of the body, guaranteeing stability even with a higher ground height. The front bushings are more robust, as well as the suspension beam, focusing on the comfort of running.

The rear axle has its development based on the HR-V and brings high stiffness for increased comfort and handling. The EPS (Electric Power Steering) steering box is electrically assisted, developed specifically for the WR-V, allowing a maneuvering range of only 5.3 meters.

Wheels and tires were also developed specifically for the WR-V. The 16-inch wheels feature differentiated alloy aluminum compound, which reduces tread noise and 195/60 tires that bring comfort and low vibration. A complete acoustic package, with isolators installed in various points of the car, help to amplify the silence on board.

Versatile and dynamic interior

Taking the versatility of Honda products as a benchmark, the WR-V features a large, modular interior - in contrast to the compact body - with differentiated finish and materials. 

One of the great innovations of the brand, the ULTRa SEAT (Utility Long Tall Refresh) seat system is also present in the WR-V, allowing various seat configurations and accommodating large objects. The Refresh mode also allows flat flooring, which extends the useful space for luggage.

Combined with the dynamic proposal of the WR-V, the interior has wraparound seats with unprecedented coating patterns, which differ according to the color of the body, allowing a unique style to the SUV. There are two color combinations