The WR-V features bold, distinctive styling as well as some elements which highlights its ‘SUV’ appeal. This comes in the form of a slightly raised ride height and black cladding on the lower edges. This Honda features a bold chrome-like bar upfront along with LED headlights and -daytime running lights. It is also recognisable by its distinctive C-shaped taillights and it rides on 16-inch alloy wheels.
Despite its compact footprint, the WR-V looks and feels spacious inside. The interior execution focuses on intelligent packaging to deliver a spacious front and rear cabin which comfortably seats five passengers. The WRV does not compromise on luggage capacity either, offering a generous 363 litres with the rear seats up, and an impressive 881 litres with the rear seats folded flat.
The WR-V also incorporates Honda’s ingenious “Magic Seat” system borrowed from the popular Honda Jazz and HR-V. The Magic Seats can be configured in several different ways to accommodate a variety of tall and long objects. n terms of infotainment, this Elegance model has a neatly incorporated seven-inch touchscreen display audio system that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
While Park Distance Control is standard across the range, this top-spec model gains an integrated reverse parking camera.
Safety features including six SRS airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, ISOFIX child seat anchors as well as an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD)
The Honda WR-V is powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine which develops 66kW and 110Nm. Power is sent to the front wheel via a 5-speed manual. I, unfortunately, found the motor to be somewhat underpowered at times. One really needs to work the gearbox and explore the upper levels of the rev range to keep up with traffic.
The problem with this is that the little motor makes known its struggles and can sound a bit off-putting. I think that the brands 1.5-litre would do wonders in this application. As for the driving, the car remains comfortable and easy to live with. It offers a host of modern features and practicality. I just wish it had a bit more punch and maybe a 6th gear as it tends to fizz at 4000rpm on the highway. The big attraction however is the price, at R319 900 for this top-spec model it is definitely worth considering.
