Honda all set to launch 2017 WR-V crossover in India soon

What was originally intended for the Latin American market may well soon be available in Asia, specifically in India. Slated to be launched on March 16, the new Jazz-based crossover was first launched in Brazil back in November 2016.

Short for 'Winsome Runabout Vehicle', the 2017 WR-V is the company's first crossover wholly developed in Brazil. It sits on the Jazz's platform and borrows styling cues from the B-segment hatchback.

Is Honda bringing the WR-V to other Asian markets?

Up front, the 2017 WR-V has a prominent fascia that is dominated by the Solid Wing Face and eye-catching headlights. The WR-V also gets body cladding to denote the crossover's ruggedness. Over to the side, Honda retained the Jazz's side profile, as well as the character line along the doors. Shod in the wheel wells are diamond-cut alloy wheels.

Around the back, it gets the taillights from the B-segment hatch, along with a unique tailgate with a large glass area. Topping it all off are the roof rails and faux skid plates found at the front and back.

Inside the 2017 Honda WR-V

Inside, the WR-V almost has the same interior design from the Jazz. It gets the 3-pod instrument panel, center stack touchscreen infotainment and 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Faux metal accents, splashes of black plastic trim slightly spruce up the cabin ambiance.

No engine specifications have been revealed yet but it is highly likely that the Indian-spec WR-V will also have the same powertrain options from the Jazz. Over there, it will be available with either a 1.2-liter i-VTEC gasoline inline-four with a 5-speed manual, and a 1.5-liter i-DTEC turbo-diesel that is mated to a 6-speed manual.

Side profile of the 2017 Honda WR-V

It is set to compete against the likes of the Ford EcoSport, Hyundai i20 Cross Sport and other miniature crossovers.

There is no word yet if Honda plans to bring the WR-V to the ASEAN region.