Rs 9 lakh Honda SUV in trouble before launch?
Honda is finding it tough to survive in the Indian market. Its strategy of sticking mainly with sedans has clearly backfired for the brand. Honda, in an attempt to cool the heat is working on new SUVs, especially for emerging markets like India. These SUVs will target popular cars like the Tata Nexon and Hyundai Creta respectively. However, even before the launch, Honda SUVs are planning to miss an important thing that could have given them an edge in their respective segments. What is this important thing? It is the diesel engine option. In today’s article, let’s talk about the Rs 9 lakh Honda SUV and how skipping on diesel engine could put this SUV in trouble.
What’s the trouble about?
According to a new report by Times Of India, Honda is looking to discontinue its 1.5-litre diesel engine. Why is Honda doing this? It seems to be due to the upcoming Real Driving Emissions (RDE) norms in April 2023. Under the new regulations, vehicles would be required to achieve emissions in the real world. According to Takuya Tsumura, President & CEO of Honda Cars India, it would be difficult to clear RDE norms with the current engines.
Rs 9 lakh Honda SUV – Consequences
Considering the emissions norms are coming in April 2023, Honda’s new SUV could miss out on a diesel engine. Even though diesel cars are becoming expensive, they are still very popular in the SUV segment due to their high mileage & torque figures. So missing out on a diesel engine could put this SUV at a major disadvantage against the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. To counter this, Honda could bring in more hybrids and all-electric cars.
Now, Honda would be entering the segment very late. Many automakers already have their products in this segment, and Honda should have looked to offer as many strong aspects as possible. Drawing back the diesel engine could lead to Honda losing sales. On the contrary, these are just nascent reports and we will have to wait for a further confirmation.
What else do we know about this SUV?
We know that Honda is working on two new SUVs for the Indian market. The first of these will be the compact SUV that will take on the likes of Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, etc. According to reports, this car will be based on the Amaze platform. Not only the platform, but it could also share most of its mechanical bits with the Amaze as well. In June, Honda also revealed the silhouette of this car at the GIIAS (GAIKINDO Indonesia International Auto Show).
As far as launch is concerned, this SUV is touted to launch next year.
Do you think Honda should stop selling diesel engines? Do let us know in the comments.
If you have car buying doubts click here to ask! Get the lowest price for car insurance here. For more such content stay subscribed to MotorOctane Youtube, Google News Facebook, and Twitter. Also, follow us on Flipboard and Reddit where we have a discussion community.
Comments