The Honda WR-V currently sold in Japan is completely different to the one offered in Malaysia and other developing markets. It is imported (CBU) from India where the SUV is called the Honda Elevate and since its unveiling in the Land of the Rising Sun, there is reportedly an 8-month waiting period.

Seeking to ride on the popularity wave of the smallest SUV in its Japanese line-up, Honda is showcasing a very wild and rugged-looking WR-V at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS) which runs from 12-14 January. Dubbed the WR-V Field Explorer Concept, the small SUV has been given a gruff treatment to bring out its adventurous side.

Designed with the “Ready Go Land” concept in mind, this customized WR-V is given a roof rack and a new front grille with the Honda script written in full. The standard 17-inch wheels have been reduced to 15 inches and are wrapped with chunky all-terrain tyres.

Also read: Over 8 month wait for 2024 Honda WR-V in Japan; customers diverting from Rocky, Raize

Despite the adventure-ready look, the WR-V Field Explorer Concept remains standard underneath. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine (118 PS/142 Nm) and paired with a CVT that sends power to the front wheels (FWD).

The Japanese WR-V is available in 3 variants priced from JPY 2 million to JPY 2.5 million (~RM 68k-81k). It is a fair bit cheaper than the Vezel (HR-V) which ranges from JPY 2.4 million to JPY 3 million (~RM 78k-98k).

Also read: Circa 15% cheaper than HR-V: Prices revealed for 2023 Honda WR-V in Japan, from ~RM 68k

The Malaysian WR-V on the other hand is different to the one that is offered in Japan. It is built on a shortened platform of the second-generation BR-V which is not available in Malaysia. 4 variants of the locally assembled (CKD) WR-V are available which are:

• 1.5 S - RM 89,900
• 1.5 E - RM 95,900
• 1.5 V - RM 99,900
• 1.5 RS - RM 107,900

Also read: Priced from RM 90k, 2023 Honda WR-V launched in Malaysia; 1.5 NA, CVT, Sensing ADAS