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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What’s it like to drive?

The 1.2-litre petrol is the same refined unit as in the Jazz and churns out a healthy 90hp.
Its low-end performance is decent at slow speeds. The power delivery, however, gets a bit flat at mid revs warranting the need to shift to a lower gear if you want to move ahead quickly. This is crucial for overtaking in slow-moving traffic. But gear changes will be less of a hassle because of the light and easy-to-use clutch. However, the top-end in true Honda fashion is great with the engine urging you to rev it faster, while it pulls quite easily. The petrol WR-V’s 5-speed manual is smooth. But the new gearshift knob is small and is difficult to grip, which one will take time to get used to.

The diesel is the familiar 1.5-litre i-DTEC unit that churns out 100 hp. This engine, like always, offers good low-end drivability with a smooth power delivery and is also very efficient with Honda claiming a figure of 25.5kmpl. Refinement levels continue to be a sore point with loud engine noise and a lot of clatter. This one comes equipped with a 6-speed manual but the clutch is slightly heavy to operate.

The WR-V rides on a slightly higher suspension compared to the Jazz, but this has not had any adverse effect on its handling which inspires confidence at high speeds. Body roll too is fairly contained. With its larger 16-inch wheels that ride on 195/60 profile tyres, the WR-V absorbs bumps pretty decently – certainly better than the Jazz and will handle any pothole-riddled urban street rather well.

The electric power steering is from the Jazz and has been re-calibrated for the WR-V. It offers more assistance at lower speeds and can be twirled with ease. The steering is precise and offers good feedback, which makes it enjoyable at higher speeds.