SUVs are having a moment right now and the momentum isn't stopping. The Honda WR-V, or Winsome Roundabouot Vehicle, is set to launch Q3 of this year and bookings are now open at 101 Honda dealerships nationwide.

The small SUV will come with a 1.5DOHC i-VTEC engine that generates 121PS and a maximum torque of 145Nm (yes, it's the same engine as the Honda City and the base HR-V) which is paired to a CVT gearbox. It will also come with Honda Sensing that gives you all the safety letters and lane watch camera: LCDN, ACC, CMBS, FCW, LKAS, RDM, LDW, and AHB.



No idea if the safety features will be available across the range, but as it's the smallest SUV that should be priced between RM90,000 to RM110,000 (based on pricing in Thailand and Indonesia), we're going to assume there's a basic variant without added safety and a premium RS version with all the bells and whistles.

Honda WR-V vs Perodua Ativa

So far, the Ativa is the only compact SUV that's competing in this range in terms of price and market positioning so it's safe to compare these two. Luxury cars like the Audi Q2 don't play in this space so we're not comparing them. Just for fun, we've added the Honda City too as the length and width figures are pertient to take in if you're in it just for the size.
DimensionsHonda WR-VPerodua AtivaHonda City
Length4,060mm4,065mm4,553mm
Width1,780mm1,710mm1,748mm
Height1,608mm1,635mm1,467mm
Wheelbase2,485mm2,525mm2,600mm

To note on the numbers is the width and the wheebase. 70mm extra in a cabin of the WR-V is a lot in terms of comfort and the wheelbase determines the ride comfort and space (longer, better). Just based on the numbers, the WR-V is not as lengthy which might affect legroom, but it's clearly wider.

It's interesting to note what we lose in space when you compare the SUV to a sedan as the Honday City is 500mm longer. So tall fellas shouldn't assume SUVs have the best legroom.

The highest spec Ativa is priced at RM73,400 and based on our guesstimate, the pricing of the WR-V should start at RM90,000. Of course, that's the premium you pay for an imported car.

Where to book the WR-V?

Simply head to prebook.honda.com.my to book the car or any of the authorised dealers. In the link you'll also find all the dealers according to location.

If you'd like to preview the car there are preview events at dealerships around Malaysia: