- Damd has revealed a Jeep-inspired styling kit for the Honda WR-V in Japan.
- Reverb kit channels the classic Cherokee XJ with a boxy front and side decals.
- Demo vehicle gains rugged wheels, all-terrain tires, and a 1.4-inch suspension lift kit.
A revival of the Jeep Cherokee is on the horizon, but not in the way you might expect. While Jeep is preparing to bring back the nameplate with a new model for the 2026MY, a Japanese tuner has quietly out-Cherokeed Jeep using, of all things, a compact Honda.
The latest tribute to the legendary XJ comes from Damd, the same company known for transforming kei cars into mini G-Wagens and baby Land Rovers. This time, they’ve taken a Honda WR-V and given it a makeover that might just outdo Jeep’s own efforts.
More: Damd Turns Honda N-Box Into A Mini Range Rover
The original Cherokee XJ design, which launched in 1983 and has since achieved cult status, serves as the clear inspiration here. Dubbed the Damd Reverb, the project started life as a prototype shown at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon. Underneath it all, it’s a WR-V, Honda’s compact SUV built in India (where it’s sold as the Elevate) and shipped to Japan. After an enthusiastic reception at the show, Damd pushed it into production. The full kit is now on sale, with a few extra parts on the way.
Jeep Vibes, Honda Bones
What really sets the Reverb apart is its new front end. A retro-style, seven-slot grille is front and center, framed by square headlights and separate amber indicators that mimic the old-school Cherokee look. A squared-off hood, rugged bumper with faux aluminum inserts, and a revised front fascia complete the transformation. From the fenders back, though, it’s still very much a Honda WR-V.
Along the sides, a woodgrain decal adds more Americana flair, and the demo car rolls on optional 16-inch Dean Cross Country wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich all-terrain tires. To give it a little more off-road stance, Damd also fitted a 30-35 mm lift kit, raising the ride height just enough to look the part without going overboard.
Damd
Damd has also unveiled a trim piece for the taillights that will be available soon. This features a special pattern and Reverb lettering in the middle section, hiding the original Honda emblem. The interior is carried over from the Honda WR-V, but the tuner will offer optional covers with a chequered pattern for the front and rear seats, which look pretty neat.
More: Suzuki Jimny Transformed Into A Little Jeep Cherokee XJ Impersonator
Mechanically, there are no surprises. The Reverb sticks with the stock 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 119 hp (89 kW / 121 PS). In Japan, it’s paired only with a CVT. There’s no manual transmission option, and all-wheel drive isn’t available either. While that might disappoint hardcore off-road fans, it’s in keeping with the WR-V’s urban roots.
Pricing the Nostalgia
If you want the full retro face swap, it’ll set you back ¥327,800 (about $2,300) before paint. LED headlight upgrades are available for another ¥26,400 ($180). Add the side woodgrain decals for ¥63,800 ($440), and keep in mind the rear trim and seat cover pricing is still TBD. These prices include tax but don’t cover installation or shipping.
The base Honda WR-V itself is priced between ¥2,398,000 and ¥2,580,600 in Japan, or roughly $16,600 to $17,900. So, while the Reverb kit doesn’t come cheap, the total package stays within reach for anyone chasing that retro SUV vibe without going full vintage.
Damd
