Honda has launched the new WR-V in Argentina, and its debut has not gone unnoticed for two key reasons: it comes standard with an advanced safety package and extends the warranty to five years, an unusual move in the entry-level compact SUV segment. The model, set for delivery starting in January 2026, aims to be one of the year's major new releases in an increasingly competitive segment where equipment and after-sales support weigh as heavily as the price. According to the Argentine News Agency (NA), the suggested retail price for the Honda WR-V is ARS $39,990,000. With only one version available, the WR-V is positioned as the entry point to the Japanese brand's SUV universe in the local market. A leap in safety for the segment One of the most significant aspects of the launch is the standard safety level, which goes beyond what is typical for this market tier. For hybrid models, the coverage for specific hybrid system components remains at eight years. This move reinforces the brand's positioning in terms of reliability and support, and also serves as a clear signal in a market where maintenance costs and long-term predictability are increasingly valued. Familiar mechanics and an urban-family focus The new WR-V is built in Brazil and equipped with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 121 horsepower, paired with a CVT automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This powertrain, usually found in higher segments, raises the bar for active safety. In a context where safety is becoming a decisive purchasing factor, the strategy of offering these driver-assist systems as standard creates a clear difference against several direct rivals. Extended warranty: a game-changer The other major novelty accompanying the WR-V's arrival is the extension of the warranty to five years or 150,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. This is a configuration designed for daily use, focusing on ride comfort and efficiency rather than sporty performance. In terms of dimensions, it squarely fits into the B-SUV segment, with a length of 4.3 meters and a wheelbase of 2.6 meters. The benefit isn't limited to this model: it applies to the entire brand's car lineup and is even applied retroactively to units sold since January 2023. To be eligible for the extended warranty, vehicles must comply with the official maintenance plan, which includes services every 10,000 kilometers or once a year. The WR-V features six airbags, stability and traction control, hill-start assist, and a rear camera, but it also adds a full suite of driver-assist systems. Notable systems include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking with collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, lane departure mitigation, and automatic high beams. The 458-liter trunk is another of its strong points, placing it among the most capable in its category for family use. The equipment is rounded out with a 10.25-inch multimedia screen, a wireless charger, automatic climate control with rear vents, 17-inch alloy wheels, and leather upholstery.
