Honda WR-V Review – Is It Still Relevant in 2025?

The Honda WR-V, in its original form, made a distinctive mark in the compact crossover segment with its spacious cabin, reliable engines, and the practicality of a hatchback mixed with SUV-like styling. However, as the automotive landscape rapidly evolves—especially with the introduction of new-generation sub-4-meter SUVs and the global re-introduction of the WR-V nameplate (in markets like Japan, where it’s based on the Honda Elevate)—the question of its continued relevance in 2025 is critical.

The answer depends heavily on whether you are considering the original, now discontinued WR-V model or the new-generation WR-V/Elevate derivative that has been launched in international markets and is potentially making a comeback/already launched in some markets.

The New-Generation Honda WR-V (Post-2024 Context)

For new car buyers in 2025, the WR-V’s relevance hinges on the all-new version, which in some markets, is essentially a rebadged version of the Honda Elevate compact SUV.

Why It’s Relevant

• Modern SUV Stance and Styling: The new design is a major upgrade from the previous crossover look, adopting a more upright, bolder SUV silhouette that appeals to current market trends.
• Safety and Features: International versions and expectations for the new model include a significant leap in technology, such as the full Honda Sensing ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite, a 6-airbag setup, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and features like a LaneWatch camera. This modern feature set is essential for competing in 2025.
• Proven Powertrain: It is expected to share the reliable 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine with the Honda City/Elevate, which offers good performance and refinement, paired with both Manual and modern CVT automatic transmissions. This rectifies the lack of a proper automatic option in the original diesel WR-V.
• Spacious and Practical Cabin: The Honda DNA of ‘Man Maximum, Machine Minimum’ ensures a spacious cabin, comfortable seating, and a large boot capacity (around 380L or more, similar to the Elevate), giving it a strong practical advantage.

Challenges to Relevance

• Competition is Fierce: The segment is dominated by formidable rivals like the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, and Maruti Suzuki Brezza, which are constantly updated with new features, turbo-petrol engines, and modern transmissions.
• No Turbo-Petrol/Diesel Option: Unlike many competitors, the new WR-V/Elevate platform typically relies on a naturally-aspirated 1.5L engine. While refined, it might lack the immediate punch and excitement of turbo-petrol or the torque of a diesel engine that many buyers in this segment crave.
• Pricing: To be truly relevant, Honda must price the new WR-V competitively against rivals, as the previous generation was often considered a little too expensive for the feature set it offered.

The Original WR-V (Pre-2023 Model)

For those considering a pre-owned original Honda WR-V, its relevance is slightly different.

Pros in 2025 (Pre-Owned)

• Reliability: Honda’s engines are known for their bulletproof reliability and low maintenance costs, which is a significant factor for second-hand buyers.
• Excellent Diesel Engine: The 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engine, with its 6-speed manual gearbox, is surprisingly peppy and highly fuel-efficient (often exceeding 20 kmpl), making it a great highway car.
• Practicality: The high ground clearance, spacious cabin, and practical boot space (which the original WR-V had) still make it a great family car.

Cons in 2025 (Pre-Owned)

• Dated Features: The older model lacks many modern essentials expected in 2025, such as an automatic transmission option (especially on the diesel), a truly modern infotainment system, wireless charging, and advanced connectivity or safety features (like ESP or more than dual airbags in some variants).
• Underpowered Petrol: The 1.2-litre petrol engine is adequate for the city but feels underwhelming on the highway compared to modern turbo-petrol rivals.

Verdict: Is it Still Relevant in 2025?

The New Honda WR-V (based on the Elevate platform) is highly relevant in 2025, offering a much-needed modern platform, essential safety tech like ADAS, and a practical, stylish package that directly takes on the segment leaders. Its success will be determined by its exact feature list and final pricing.

The Old/Discontinued Honda WR-V remains relevant as a pre-owned purchase for buyers who prioritize reliability, space, high-efficiency diesel performance, and the peace of mind of Honda ownership over cutting-edge features and technology.

This video provides an expert’s opinion on the all-new 2025 Honda WR-V, giving a complete perspective on its relevance. Watch This Before You Buy Any SUV! 2025 Honda WR V Review!