Honda's New Midsize SUV to Have Global Debut in India This June

Honda to unveil new midsize SUV in India this June with competitive features, localized engine production and a unique name in the Rs 12 lakh-19 lakh price band.

Listen to this news

Honda's upcoming midsize SUV, which is designed specifically for the Indian market and will compete against the popular Creta, will have its global debut in June 2023. However, the automaker faces a significant challenge as competitors are already well-established, making it harder to compete. The new SUV will need to have an impressive design and provide a genuine SUV feel, while also offering a range of advanced features and being cost-effective.

It's ironic that Honda was the first to introduce soft roaders in India with the second-gen CR-V, but they now have to catch up to rivals in the highly competitive SUV market. Their previous attempt with the BR-V in 2016 was lackluster, lacking an upright SUV stance and proper build quality and features. However, Honda's upcoming SUV is a much more determined and genuine effort to take on the Creta class, according to insiders and spy shots.

Honda's new SUV for India to have a serious attempt at Creta class, with tech- and feature-loaded design details.

At first glance, Honda's new SUV seems to have a strong foundation. The hood appears broad and level, with a substantial front end, and Honda has incorporated bulky elements to create a genuine SUV sensation. The design is further enhanced by chrome accents on the grille, sleek LED headlamps, and beefy wheel arches with a slim waistline.

Regarding the windows, Honda has given a considerable incline to both the front and rear windshields, resulting in a sporty appearance. However, the roof is mostly level and has roof rails. The tail lights resemble those of the new WR-V, and the rear spoiler complements the overall design.

Honda's Upcoming SUV for India: A Closer Look at Dimensions and Platform

Honda's upcoming midsize SUV for India will have a length of 4.2-4.3 meters and a long wheelbase, which is visible from its profile. The SUV is said to share its platform and engines with the fifth-gen City, which is known for its stiffness, lightness, and good ride and handling. This shared platform is also expected to enhance crash safety.

Honda's New SUV for India to Share Engines with Fifth-Gen City; Expect High Performance and Efficiency
Honda's upcoming midsize SUV will feature the same 1.5-litre twin-cam petrol engine found in the fifth-gen City sedan, with a likely increase in power output.

While the petrol engine is expected to be the only option at launch, a strong hybrid or 1.0-litre turbo engine may arrive later. The new engine offers greater tuning flexibility, and gearbox options are expected to be similar to those already available for the City, including a 6-speed manual and CVT. Notably, there will be no diesel engine option.

Honda's new SUV for India: Interior and Features Overview

The interior of Honda's new SUV for India has not been shown yet, but it will have a spacious cabin and a large, free-standing touchscreen. According to reports, it will also offer a competitive range of features. However, Honda will need to focus on perfecting the user interface of the touchscreen and creating an interior design that is visually appealing and comfortable in order to succeed in the market.

Honda's upcoming SUV aims to take on the Hyundai Creta with a powerful engine and competitive features

Honda's upcoming SUV, which is expected to launch in the second half of 2023, is likely to be priced slightly higher than its rivals, with a price range between Rs 12 lakh to 19 lakh.

Despite heavy localization and engine production in India, Honda is likely to maintain a small gap in pricing to maintain its positioning in the market. The SUV is expected to be named after one of Honda's existing models, such as City, Jazz, or Amaze, instead of using an acronym like its other SUV models. Overall, this midsize SUV from Honda could be a big contender in the Indian market.

---

---