Is the all new Honda WR-V really riding a new wave or is it all show and no go?
Okay, so those of you who have been following my Instagram should already be aware that I was recently taken on a trip to Langkawi by Honda to test drive its new WR-V small SUV. Honda markets it as riding a new wave, but does it really? Well, here are my honest thoughts after driving it for 3 days around Langkawi.
Powering the Honda WR-V is a 1.5 litre four cylinder engine making 119hp and 145Nm of torque. This is paired to a CVT gearbox which gives it all the typical quirks one can expect from a CVT transmission. It is also replacing the outgoing BR-V 7-seater SUV.
Moreover, these power numbers seem good and they are definitely good enough. After having spoken with several fellow members of the media along with the team of coordinators, I conclude that the Honda WR-V is simply confused as to what it wants to be. It is part sporty and part comfortable family car, but neither one specifically.
The main problem for me was that I found the suspension a bit too soft but some coordinators felt it was too stiff. Why is that? Nobody knows, but keep in mind I am used to very different cars from them. Plus being a CVT, pickup left much to be desired and the engine was VERY loud when the throttle was fully depressed.
On top of that, the Honda WR-V is a very stylish car on the outside, yet the interior felt very plain and simple in comparison. Is this a bad thing? No, I personally prefer a more understated look but the average WR-V buyer would likely prefer the more “in your face” red accents and stitches in the top spec RS model.
Aside from that, the Honda WR-V is practical, comfortable and performs as a city cruiser very well so if you have a heavy foot, then you may not really like this car so much, but if you use it the way it was intended to be used then you will really love the car as it truly is perfect for city commuting.
There you have it, so if you are in the market for a compact, stylish and practical city commuter, then consider test driving the new Honda WR-V. Besides, if sportiness is what you are after, you would be better off with a sedan anyway, so for the target market, the WR-V is one of the best choices in its segment.
