Honda’s new WR-V: 5 disappointing points

Honda announced the new compact SUV “WR-V” in Japan on December 21, 2023, and released it on March 22, 2024. In this article, I ‘ve compiled a detailed summary of the disappointments I found after researching and considering purchasing the “WR-V.” I hope this information will be helpful when making your purchase.

What I find disappointing about the new Honda WR-V

1. No “electric parking brake” or “auto brake hold”

The ” electric parking brake ” automatically applies the parking brake when shifted into “P” range. ” Auto Brake Hold ” automatically applies the brakes while the “HOLD” indicator light is on when the car is stopped at a red light or other traffic light. This very convenient feature, which is becoming standard in recent new models, is not included. It’s a shame, as this is a great car. I hope it’s included in the improved model. In the same class, it’s available on the Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-3, and Toyota Yaris Cross. For Honda fans, the Honda Vezel comes standard with this feature. If you’re looking for a feature like this, I highly recommend the WR-V.

2. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) does not have a traffic jam following function

This is a feature that is only available if you don’t have the above-mentioned features, “electric parking brake” and “auto brake hold.” Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is available, but it only works at speeds above 30km/h. Also, since it can’t follow in traffic jams, it may not be enough as a driving support system . If you like Honda cars, the Honda Vezel comes standard with this feature. If you’re looking for features like this, I highly recommend the “WR-V.”

3. No option for Honda’s hybrid powertrain “e:HEV”

The gasoline model is the only one that uses a 1.5L inline 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. There is currently no hybrid model in the lineup. If you want a hybrid car, choose the Honda Vezel. On the other hand, if you prefer a gasoline car, the WR-V is highly recommended, as it has a wider range of trim levels than the Vezel.

4. There is no 4WD model in the engine lineup

The grade is 2WD only. This is not an option for people who live in snowy regions or who want to enjoy the outdoors. It’s a bit disappointing that there is no 4WD option for a crossover SUV. For those who like Honda cars, the Honda Vezel has a 4WD model. For those who are looking for 4WD, the WR-V is highly recommended.

Honda WR-V price and grade

5. It’s not a center-tank layout

The “center tank layout” that has been adopted since the “Fit” is also used in the current “N-BOX” and “Vezel” models. The fuel tank is usually placed under the rear seat or luggage compartment, but by placing it on the floor in the center of the front seats, the space under the rear seats is freed up, allowing the trunk space to be lowered or the rear seats to be flipped up to make effective use of the space. However, the “WR-V” does not have a center tank layout. Of course, the luggage compartment is not so narrow that it is a problem. The rear seats cannot be flipped up.

6. The rear indicators and backup lights are miniature bulbs (worth the price)

It doesn’t really bother me that much when I see it in person, but I do find it a little annoying that the rear indicators and backup lights are just miniature bulbs while the other lights are LED. However, since the price is kept low, I don’t think I’ll be dissatisfied with this setup.

7. Interior dashboard (worth the price)

The interior dashboard is made of hard plastic, and it would feel a bit more high-quality if it had a softer padding, but considering the price range, it’s not bad overall.

8. No heated seats or seat ventilation

As an interior comfort feature, I would like to see seat heaters or seat ventilation installed, even if it’s just as an option. Having them or not makes a huge difference in your life. Even some grades of light cars like the N-BOX are equipped with seat heaters, so I would love to see them installed when the car is upgraded.

Summary of the new Honda WR-V

While I’ve explained some of the disappointing aspects, the WR-V and Vezel use the same gasoline engine. Their WLTC fuel economy is also roughly the same. However, the WR-V has fewer features, so the price difference is undoubtedly between ¥12,9800 and ¥300,300. The WR-V’s price and specifications are similar to those of the Yaris Cross, the best-selling model in Japan’s Yaris series, and Honda is excited about its sales. Furthermore, with sales of the Raize and Rocky models in the same class halted due to Daihatsu’s scandal, the WR-V is likely to be a popular choice. It will be interesting to see where the WR-V ranks in sales volume from April and May 2024.

For WR-V, go to next page