Honda is getting serious about its India game plan, and if recent spy shots are anything to go by, the WR-V RS could be its next big move. The compact SUV, already on sale in countries like Indonesia and Thailand, was seen testing in Pune — and not in disguise.
That’s a strong hint that Honda’s gearing up to bring this sporty SUV to Indian showrooms soon. Let’s look into what this means for Indian buyers and Honda’s strategy.
Comeback
Honda has already laid out an ambitious goal — launching 10 new models by 2030 in India. And while that seems far away, the work has clearly begun. The WR-V RS, seen on Indian roads with an Indonesian number plate and a ‘Testing Vehicle’ paper on the windshield, looks ready to take on Indian conditions.
The testing was spotted in Pune, which is home to ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India), the agency responsible for vehicle certification. That makes this test even more interesting — it may already be going through approval stages.
Styling
What makes the WR-V RS special is its sporty and aggressive design. It borrows several elements from the second-gen Honda Amaze — the headlamps, grille layout, and even the prominent chrome bar at the front. But the RS trim gives it a more athletic stance.
You get sleek LED DRLs, sporty bumper lines, fog lamps, and a faux skid plate, all adding to the SUV’s bold appearance. Move to the rear and the sharp LED taillights with sequential turn signals bring a premium vibe. A red RS badge sits proudly on the hatch, marking its sportier intent. And thick black body cladding boosts its SUV character.
Variants
In Southeast Asian markets, the WR-V is offered in S, E, V, and RS trims, with the RS being the most premium and performance-inspired version. If Honda launches the RS trim in India, it would likely sit at the top of the WR-V lineup, targeting young buyers who want more flair in their drive without jumping into a high-end SUV.
Platform
The WR-V RS currently sold in Indonesia is built on the second-gen Amaze platform, but for India, Honda might take a different route. We could see it switch to the newer third-gen Amaze platform, which is expected to offer better structural strength, improved safety, and more space — all big priorities for Indian buyers.
Engine
In Indonesia, the WR-V RS uses a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine producing 121 hp and 145 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or CVT gearbox. It’s peppy and perfect for spirited driving.
However, Honda might tone it down for India. Why? Because India has stricter fuel efficiency norms and a more price-sensitive market. So, the India-spec WR-V RS is expected to feature a 1.2-litre petrol engine, the same one used in the Amaze, with slightly lower power but better mileage and affordability.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Specification | Indonesian WR-V RS | Indian WR-V RS (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L i-VTEC | 1.2L i-VTEC |
| Power | 121 hp | ~90-100 hp (estimated) |
| Torque | 145 Nm | ~110-115 Nm (estimated) |
| Gearbox Options | Manual / CVT | Manual / CVT |
Positioning
Honda currently sells only three models in India: the Amaze, City, and Elevate. That’s a slim lineup in a market full of options. The WR-V RS could be the perfect gap-filler — it sits below the Elevate in size but offers more presence than a hatchback.
It’s small enough for city traffic but styled to appeal to SUV lovers. Plus, its RS tag and sportier appeal can lure in younger buyers who want more style without going over budget.
Launch
While Honda hasn’t confirmed anything yet, the fact that a near-production model is already testing in India suggests a launch is not far off. We can expect it to hit the market in early or mid-2026. That fits in with Honda’s timeline for expanding its lineup before the end of the decade.
With the WR-V RS, Honda seems to be working on bringing back the charm of compact SUVs with a sporty edge. If priced right, this could go head-to-head with popular models like the Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, and Kia Sonet.
FAQs
Is the WR-V RS coming to India?
Yes, the WR-V RS has been spotted testing in Pune, hinting at launch.
What engine will the India-spec WR-V RS get?
It will likely get a 1.2L petrol engine suited for Indian conditions.
What is the WR-V RS based on?
It’s based on the second-gen Amaze platform internationally.
What makes the RS trim different?
The RS trim offers sportier styling, LED lights, and bold design.
When will the WR-V RS launch in India?
Expected launch is likely in early to mid-2026.
