Though Indonesia is a land where MPVs are king, it is threatened by the rise of crossovers and SUVs much like many markets around the world. With the all-new Honda BR-V scaring the likes of the Toyota Avanza and the Mitsubishi Xpander, Honda has another model in store to compete against smaller SUVs like the Kia Sonet and Toyota Raize.
According to information gathered by OtoDriver, Honda is planning to launch a smaller version of the BR-V to compete in this lucrative and growing segment. Sources told the Indonesian automotive site that the model would be launched in the second half of 2022.
The mini BR-V, codenamed NESS, is likely to be built on the same platform as the all-new BR-V. The source also said that it would be powered by the same engine used in the 7-seater crossover as well as the Indo-spec City Hatchback.
Recall that both models are powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre DOHC engine that produces 121 PS and 145 Nm.
Honda Fit Ness shown
Regarding the project’s codename, the Ness name is used on a variant of the Honda Fit in Japan. The Honda Fit Ness trim (fitness, get it?) is catered for those with an “active” lifestyle but without the soft-roader appearance of the Fit Crosstar.
South African-spec Honda WR-V shown
The source added that the name of the new SUV could be called the WR-V. The outgoing WR-V is due for replacement and it is literally a GK5 Jazz with a jacked-up look.
The WR-V is currently sold in Latin America, South Africa, and India but this next-gen model is likely due to arrive in Southeast Asian markets including Indonesia and Malaysia.
Unfortunately, despite the Fit/Jazz connotations, we will not be getting the fourth-gen model here with many developing markets getting the City Hatchback instead.
Honda Indonesia has also teased what might be the upcoming rival to the Toyota Raize at the end of the all-new BR-V's launch. Meanwhile, Indonesian graphic designer, Rafi M R, has uploaded a rendered image of what the WR-V could look like in the rear that is based on the all-new 7-seater.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
