Honda recently debuted its flagship hybrid SUV, the ZR-V e:HEV, in India. With this, Honda’s focus seems to have shifted towards India’s diverse SUV market. That said, we could expect an all-new, accessible compact SUV from the automaker in the near future. So what can we expect from Honda’s new compact SUV? Here’s a look.
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Design
The Japanese automaker has already confirmed it will bring a sub-4-metre SUV. On the outside, it is expected to draw heavily on the globally sold Honda models. It is also expected to borrow certain design elements from the Elevate. It could feature a large front grille, sleek LED headlamps and square-shaped wheel arches. Despite being a compact SUV, it is expected to have an upright stance and decent road presence.
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Interior & Features
Inside, the new compact SUV could offer a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with a seven-inch TFT driver’s display. Additionally, this new compact SUV could also get a sunroof, automatic climate control, wireless charging, ventilated seats and much more.
This SUV is expected to be one of the most accessible Hondas in India. Even if that were true, the automaker is expected to focus heavily on safety. That being said, this new compact SUV could feature a 360-degree parking camera and an ADAS system, with multiple airbags as standard.
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Powertrain
Currently, Honda cars feature two main engines: the 1.5-litre NA petrol and the 1.2-litre NA petrol. However, with the new compact SUV, Honda is more likely to offer the smaller 1.2-litre petrol engine (119 bhp & 145 Nm). This engine could be paired with a six-speed manual and a CVT gearbox. And there’s a chance Honda might bring the one-litre engine from its global line-up to India with this compact SUV. Also, considering the huge consumer concern about mileage drop due to E20, Honda might also offer a retrofitted CNG kit with this new SUV.
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Rivals
Once launched, this new SUV will be taking on one of the most crowded segments in the Indian market. That being said, the major rival will be the segment leader, the Tata Nexon. Other rivals remain the Skoda Kylaq, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and Mahindra XUV 3XO.
Expected Launch & Pricing
There is no official word from Honda on the launch of this new compact SUV yet. Expect an announcement sometime next year, with a price range between Rs. 9 lakh and Rs. 15 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).
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