2017 Honda WR-V sketch revealed

Honda has officially released a sketch of the WR-V ahead of its scheduled premiere at the 2016 Sao Paulo International Motor Show. The Honda WR-V is based on the Honda Jazz hatchback. It will replace the Honda Fit Twist sold in global markets. The 2016 Sao Paulo International Motor Show will take place from November 10 to 20.

The WR-V sketch shows that the Jazz based crossover is likely to get an aggressive styling. It gets a big front bumper which houses two fog lamps, large air dams and a lower grille. The flared wheel arches, the sharp lines on the bonnet, roof rails and wide tyres further accentuate its macho look.

The Honda WR-V also gets body cladding and new headlights.  Although the rear design of the Honda WR-V hasn't been revealed, the sketch suggests the rear tail lamp unit has been borrowed from the Jazz. Since it is based on the Jazz, we can expect the WR-V to get a similar cabin layout which will also help in keeping costs to a minimum. As the sketch suggests, it will also have a higher ground clearance compared to the Jazz.

The Honda WR-V is expected to be first launched in Brazil with the 1.2-litre petrol engine and the 1.5-litre diesel engine. There is no official word from Honda on whether the WR-V will come to India. However, bringing it to India makes a lot of sense.  A more rugged version of the Jazz will help Honda lure more buyers into its showrooms in India. Also, the Hyundai i20 Active is proof that a crossover based on a hatchback platform will find takers.

If Honda Cars India brings the WR-V to our shores, it will compete against the likes of the Hyundai i20 Active, Volkswagen Cross Polo, Toyota Etios Cross and the Fiat Avventura Urban Cross.