2017 Honda WR-V review, test drive

Honda’s Jazz-based cross-hatch comes with a tough-looking front-end, revised suspension and loads of kit. We drive it.

Published on Mar 01, 2017 12:17:00 PM

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Should I buy one?

Honda has entered the party a bit late with its WR-V. But this one makes a strong case for itself. Its beauty isn’t just skin-deep with a few frills thrown in. Honda has made quite the effort, butched up the looks (especially in the front), done a few but crucial engineering changes and packed in quite a bit of kit too; the sunroof will be a huge draw. Practicality, space and user–friendliness – hallmarks of the Jazz – show their presence in the WR-V.

This segment of the cross-hatch is a market niche where most players are mere posers. The only other capable cross-hatch that displays these kinds of traits – the Fiat Avventura/Urban Cross – does not sell as much.

The WR-V is expectedly priced over the Jazz and the premium ranges from Rs 81,000 on the diesel VX going all the way up to Rs 1,23,000 for the petrol S. It seems a bit steep, but with its convincing SUV looks, improved ride and handling, along with a whole lot of kit on offer, the WR-V could give not only its cross-hatch competition, but also other compact crossovers a run for their money.