Honda Introduces WR-V Pet-Friendly Special Edition
New Delhi: Honda has unveiled a new pet-friendly special edition of the WR-V, known as Honda Elevate in the Japanese market. This unique edition was introduced at an event in Tokyo aimed at enriching the lives of both people and their pets. This special edition, called WR-V Accessorized by Honda Dog, includes a range of official accessories from the Honda Access brand tailored for dog owners.
The sole Elevate-based WR-V is equipped with several dog-themed accessories, including a carrier for the front passenger seat capable of accommodating two small dogs, as well as a gray pet door cover. The rear seats feature a pet seat circle recommended for small and medium-sized dogs, complete with anchorages to attach the leash. Additionally, customers have the option to personalize the interior with additional dog-themed stickers.
Externally, the WR-V Pet-Friendly Special Edition features a unique black plastic grille that is reminiscent of AMG’s iconic ‘Panamericana’ design, complemented by chrome accents around the lighting units and the bottom of the grille. Other exterior enhancements include the WR-V badge located above the front fender and the ‘Honda Dog’ stickers on the doors. Customers can also opt for dog paw-themed aluminum wheel caps and key covers to enhance the aesthetic appeal.
In particular, Honda Dog merchandise has gained popularity in Japan, with famous personality ‘Drift King’ Keiichi Tsuchiya choosing these accessories on his Honda Odyssey. Honda has a history of introducing dog-friendly models, as seen with the Honda Element concept shown in California in 2009.
Manufactured at Honda’s Tapukara plant in Rajasthan, India, the WR-V shares similarities with the Elevate and is powered by the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, paired with a CVT automatic transmission. Honda’s export figures indicate growing demand, with 6,809 Elevate SUVs exported to Japan in March alone.
In the Indian market, Elevate competes with popular SUVs like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Fortuner, and MG Astor. Additionally, there are plans to launch an Elevate-based electric vehicle (EV) in India by 2026 under Project ACE (Asian Compact Electric), underscoring Honda’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
