Attention pet parents in Japan! Get ready to hit the road with your furry best friend in style. Honda has unveiled a one-of-a-kind pet-focused edition of the WR-V, a car known as the Elevate in India. This special edition caters to the needs of both you and your canine companion, making every journey a comfortable and convenient experience.
From India to Japan: The Honda WR-V Takes Center Stage
The Honda Elevate, manufactured in India, finds a new home in Japan under the name WR-V. This popular compact SUV has garnered a reputation for its spaciousness and practicality, making it a perfect base for this unique pet-friendly makeover. Unveiled at a recent fair dedicated to both humans and their pets, the WR-V’s “Honda Dog” edition promises an exciting new way to travel with your furry friend.
Honda Dog: Spoiling Your Pup on Every Ride
Honda Access, the official accessories arm of Honda Japan, has gone above and beyond to create a haven for your dog within the WR-V. Here’s a closer look at the “Honda Dog” features that will transform your car into a pet paradise:
Front Passenger Comfort: The front passenger seat gets a dedicated carrier designed to accommodate two small dogs. A stylish grey pet door cover ensures a clean and contained space for your furry passengers.
Spacious Rear Seating: For larger pups, the rear seats feature a specialized pet seat circle. This comfortable spot is perfect for small and medium-sized dogs and comes with anchorages to securely attach their leashes. Both the front and rear pet seats boast a premium price tag, exceeding Rs 10,000 each (converted from Japanese yen).
Boot Space Optimization: The WR-V’s impressive boot space, boasting a segment-leading 458 liters, easily accommodates a pet buggy. This convenient accessory allows you to comfortably transport your dog without compromising on cargo capacity.
Beyond the Essentials: Pampering Your Pup in Style
The “Honda Dog” edition goes beyond functionality, offering a touch of canine flair. Here are some of the aesthetic upgrades:
Exterior Accents: A stylish slatted black grille adds a touch of sophistication, while eye-catching “Honda Dog” stickers on the doors proudly display your love for your furry companion. Optional dog paw-themed aluminum wheel caps and dog-themed key covers further personalize your WR-V, turning it into a rolling declaration of your devotion to your pup.
Estimated Cost: While the exact pricing for these cosmetic accessories hasn’t been revealed, estimates suggest they could total around Rs 20,000, allowing you to create a truly unique “Honda Dog” experience.
Japan-Spec WR-V: A Technical Rundown
While the core functionality of the WR-V remains similar to the Indian-spec Elevate, there are a few technical differences to note:
- Engine: The Japan-spec WR-V utilizes the same 1.5-liter petrol engine found in the Indian Elevate. However, it undergoes slight tuning, resulting in a slightly lower power output:
- India-spec Elevate: 121 PS and 145 Nm torque
- Japan-spec WR-V: 118 PS and 142 Nm torque
- Transmission: The WR-V is offered exclusively with a CVT (continuously variable transmission) gearbox, unlike the Indian Elevate which provides the option of a 6-speed manual transmission as well.
- Features: While the WR-V retains most of the features of the Indian Elevate, there are a few omissions:
- Infotainment System: The larger 10.25-inch touchscreen found in the Indian Elevate is replaced with a slightly smaller 9-inch unit in the WR-V.
- Sunroof and Wireless Charging: The Japan-spec model misses out on the convenience of a sunroof and wireless phone charging capabilities.
Safety First: Thankfully, both the Indian Elevate and the Japanese WR-V prioritize safety, offering identical features. This includes six airbags, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and traction control, ensuring a safe and secure journey for you and your furry companion.
FAQs
Q: Can the pet accessories be installed in any Honda Elevate model?
A: Yes, the pet-friendly accessories offered by Honda Access are compatible with all Honda Elevate models in Japan.
Q: Are these pet accessories available globally?
A: Currently, these specialized accessories are exclusively offered in Japan through Honda Access.
Q: Can I purchase these accessories separately?
A: Yes, Honda Access provides individual purchase options for each accessory, allowing customers to customize their Honda Elevate according to their preferences.