Honda will be launching a new small crossover in South Africa in November 2021. Here’s what you can expect from the newcomer!
As you know, Covid-19 has had an adverse effect on local new car introductions, many of which have been postponed until 2021.
Despite the delays, there a still a few interesting new cars expected to reach South Africa in 2020 and the potential launch for the Honda WR-V crossover is one such arrival that we are excited about.
The WR-V was first shown at the 2016 Sao Paulo Motor Show and at the time it was only destined for Brazil, but in 2017, Honda launched the WR-V in India where it’s produced in addition to being produced in Brazil. Like South Africa, India is a right-hand-drive market and it’s therefore entirely conceivable for Honda South Africa to consider the WR-V for introduction locally.
Interestingly, the WR-V is based on the same platform as the Honda Jazz, which is also produced in India and imported into South Africa.
Crossovers and indeed SUVs are big money-spinners for car manufacturers and this new small crossover from Honda will slot in underneath the slightly larger HR-V compact SUV in Honda’s local lineup and will rival offerings such as the Ford EcoSport and Hyundai Venue.
What engines will power the Honda WR-V?
The WR-V is based on the same platform as the Honda Jazz.
Exact engine specification for South Africa has yet to be confirmed but it’s likely that the WR-V will feature the same 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated engine offered in the Jazz with 66 kW and 110 Nm of torque. This
engine will be offered with either a 5-speed manual or CVT.
There’s also a possibility of a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with 74 kW and 200 Nm of torque being offered in South Africa.
What about the interior?
A neat, driver-focused interior with a 7-inch infotainment system is expected. We think it looks quite smart, wouldn’t you agree?
In the words of Honda, the WR-V was designed to offer “excellent utility and a spacious cabin within a compact body size” which implies that the WR-V offers generous interior space.
In terms of features, the WR-V comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen DigiPad 2.0 infotainment system that’s orientated towards the driver and it offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay while also projecting the feed from the rear-reverse camera with guidelines. Rear parking sensors are also offered.
Other nice-to-have-features seen on the Indian-spec WR-V include a one-touch electric sunroof, start/stop button, keyless entry and cruise control. It’s also worth knowing that the size of the load bay is claimed at 363 litres. In terms of safety features, the WR-V is equipped with 2 airbags and ABS with EBD.
We will keep you posted as soon as local specification and pricing details become available. It’s worth noting that Honda will also be introducing a new Ballade compact sedan in South Africa in November 2021.
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Original Story by www.cars.co.za
