Japanese automaker, Honda has officially announced to present production version of the Honda SUV RS concept on November 2, 2022 in Indonesia. Rumoured to be called the 2023 Honda WR-V, the new small SUV will challenge the likes of the Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky, Nissan Magnite and Kia Sonet.
The Indonesian media reports that the 2023 Honda WR-V will be use the same platform as its older brother, the new Honda BR-V. Compared to the concept, the new SUV will receive several design changes inspired by bigger Honda SUVs including BR-V and the HR-V. The front fascia of the new model will have a combination of the Brio and the BR-V, and the lighting system design will be inspired by the all-new Honda Civic.
The rear profile of the 2023 Honda WR-V SUV will have similarities with the new HR-V. Compared to the RS SUV Concept, the new WR-V model will come with a more conventional front grille with chrome studded RS treatment that’s similar to the new HR-V RS. The concept had a steep, raked screen and full-width LED signatures at the rear. The production version will have more conventional angles and tail-lamp clusters. Other design highlights will include a roof-integrated spoiler, a 3D-style tail-lights with inverted L-shaped LED signatures and silver trim on the diffuser area.
It is reported that the 2023 Honda WR-V will be offered in 2 trims, namely E and RS with different wheels. The cabin of the compact SUV is likely to share the cabin with the new BR-V & the City sedan. It will have a layered dashboard with soft-touch materials in top-end variants. It is likely to get a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless connectivity, connected car tech, a multi-functional steering wheel, a semi-digital instrument console, automatic AC with rear AC vents, an electric sunroof and others.
It is reported that the 2023 Honda WR-V compact SUV will be powered by a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine that produces 121PS and 145Nm of torque. Transmission choices are likely to include a 6-speed manual and a CVT automatic. This is the same powertrain that powers the City sedan. The company could also offer a strong hybrid powertrain with the new WR-V.
2023 Honda WR-V For India?
Honda Cars India has confirmed that it will launch a new compact SUV in our market in the first half of 2023. The new model will rival the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza and others. While the Indonesian-spec model will measure around 4.1 meters in length, the India-spec model will sit under 4 meter. The India-spec model will be based on Honda’s Amaze platform, which has several similarities with the City’s platform. This is a versatile platform, which is compatible with different body styles and engine options.
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