Honda continues crossover expansion with 2017 WR-V

Last month, Honda previewed their upcoming crossover with the release of a sketch. The automaker has now debuted their latest offering in the Latin American market dubbed the WR-V.

According to Honda, WR-V means Winsome Runabout Vehicle and is the brand's first Brazilian-developed vehicle. It sits on the Jazz platform and gains ground clearance, as well as a unique exterior design. Honda's latest offering is the second Jazz-based crossover, the first being the HR-V. Aimed primarily at the Latin American market, it is yet unknown of the WR-V will be offered worldwide.

The front end of the WR-V sheds the Jazz's wedge-like profile. Instead, it gets a bolder, more upright front end compared to the hatchback it is based on. The large wraparound headlights are set high while the center section sees Honda's signature 'Solid Wing Face' design. The front bumpers meanwhile gets defined character lines. Meanwhile, the lower section of the car gets extra body cladding, similar to those in the BR-V.

On to its side, parts of the Jazz can be seen, particularly the window section of the crossover. Moving to its rear, it gets tail lights from the Jazz, as well as a unique tailgate which sees the license plate holder moved lower. Giving the WR-V a more SUV look are a pair of roof rails and faux skid plates.

Honda has yet to reveal the interior of the WR-V but one can expect a dashboard similar to the Jazz. The engine lineup is also yet to be revealed. Being a Brazilian model, E85 compatibility is a must which both the 1.5 liter and 1.8 liter Earth Dreams i-VTEC can accommodate.

As for competition, it is up against the likes of the Ford EcoSport, Hyundai i20 Cross Sport and, another Brazilian engineered crossover, the Nissan Kicks.