KUALA LUMPUR: The smallest sports utility vehicle (SUV) from Honda has finally arrived in Malaysia in four locally assembled variants.

       The base S variant of the WR-V (Winsome Runabout Vehicle) is priced at RM89,900; the E at RM95,900; the V at RM99,900; and the top-of-the-line RS at RM107,900.

       The SUV is powered by a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine featuring 121hp and 145Nm of torque, which is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) just as in the City, City Hatchback and HR-V models.

       With the arrival of the all-new WR-V, Honda Malaysia becomes the first Japanese mass-market manufacturer to introduce a new model in the non-national small SUV segment.

       “Honda’s research and development team incorporated the best features of an SUV into a smaller design to enable the joy of owning a practical and small SUV for everyday urban commutes,” said Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Hironobu Yoshimura at the WR-V’s launch here yesterday.

       “We believe this small SUV has huge potential in the market and will strengthen Honda Malaysia’s presence in the non-national SUV segment. We are confident that the all-new WR-V will appeal to young professionals and families who seek a small SUV with good value.”

       Among the innovative and functional features in the WR-V are the power retractable door mirrors, smart entry with push start button, remote engine start, and walk-away auto lock (the last two features offered only in the E, V and RS variants).

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       At the same time, the top three variants are equipped with Honda Sensing safety features.

       The WR-V is available in five colour options, including a brand-new colour, Stellar Diamond Pearl, which marks a first for a Honda model.

       The other colours are Platinum White Pearl, Ignite Red Metallic, Meteoroid Gray Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.

       A total of 2,500 units have been booked so far since the order books opened a month ago. Of the units booked, 43% were for the RS, V (38%), E (12%) and S (7%).

       The company said it aims to have the RS variant make up 60% of future bookings.

       With the current waiting period of around two months, Honda Malaysia aims to achieve a monthly sales target of 1,300 units.