A new chapter in Honda's compact SUV lineup is about to unfold as the next-generation WR-V makes its way to Brazil. Captured by Motor1.com Brazil, these exclusive spy shots reveal key details of Honda's upcoming entry-level SUV designed specifically for South American markets. With advanced features and a modern design, this model aims to bridge the gap between the City Hatch and HR-V while enhancing Honda's presence in the competitive compact SUV segment.
Revealing the Details of Honda’s Upcoming Compact SUV
In the heart of São Paulo near the Bandeirantes Highway, a prototype of the next-generation Honda WR-V was spotted during nighttime testing. Despite heavy camouflage, the vehicle showcases a striking resemblance to Honda’s Elevate SUV sold in India and other Asian countries. The rear highlights LED lighting, aligning it with current market trends, while the dim lighting also illuminated LED headlights. Inside, a prominent multimedia screen stands out on the dashboard—distinct from those found in the City and HR-V models. This screen appears to be identical to the 10.25-inch horizontal unit featured in the Indian-market Elevate.
The dimensions of the new WR-V are impressive: measuring approximately 14.1 feet long, 5.9 feet wide, and 5.4 feet high, with an 8.7-foot wheelbase. It offers 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space and boasts a ground clearance of 8.6 inches. Compared to its predecessor, which measured just over 13 feet in length and had a smaller trunk capacity at 12.8 cubic feet, this new iteration promises increased practicality and versatility.
When launched, the WR-V will compete directly with vehicles like the Toyota Yaris Cross. Notably, production will take place exclusively at Honda's Itirapina plant located northwest of São Paulo. This marks the first model resulting from Honda's substantial R$4.2 billion investment (approximately $1 billion USD) aimed at bolstering Brazilian operations from 2024 through 2030. Beyond the WR-V, this investment supports the introduction of a hybrid flex-fuel model, updates to the HR-V, and increased production volumes leading to job creation.
Inspiration and Insights
The unveiling of Honda's next-generation WR-V signifies not only technological advancements but also strategic planning within the automotive industry. By tailoring their offerings to regional preferences and ensuring robust safety features such as collision mitigation braking systems and adaptive cruise control, Honda demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation. As we look forward to its arrival in late 2025, the WR-V exemplifies how automakers adapt to evolving consumer demands while fostering economic growth in regions like Brazil.