The current generation Honda HR-V was planned to be launched in India in 2019; that didn’t happen. In fact, trial production of the SUV was also commenced at the brand’s Greater Noida plant. However, the launch was cancelled due to rising cost of the development of the HR-V.
Honda has now started working on the next-gen HR-V mid-sized SUV, which is rumoured to be unveiled in May 2021. The new model will mark the debut of brand’s new Honda Global Platform. It will also grow in size and will measure around 4.4 meters in length. The SUV will directly rival the Jeep Compass and the Toyota Corolla Cross in the International markets.
Speaking to FE, Gaku Nakanishi, President & CEO, Honda Cars India Limited said that the price cap between the WR-V and the CR-V is about Rs 20 lakh, and the brand will need an SUV that fits into that space. “Globally, we have the HR-V that appears to be the right fit” – he further added. The company is studying this segment and will decide on how and when to enter the India mid-sized SUV segment.
Honda is also working on 2 new SUVs – a sub-4 meter SUV and a mid-sized SUV below HR-V. These two models will be based on the new Jazz platform, which also underpins the new-gen City sedan. These two SUVs are rumoured to be launched in the next 1-2 years in the select international markets. For India, Honda is rumoured to be working on an all-new sub-4 meter SUV and a mid-sized SUV based on the new Amaze platform. However, Honda is yet to make an official statement. We believe that the new HR-V SUV is not likely to arrive in our market.
The next-gen Honda HR-V is rumoured to feature SUV-Coupe styling. It is claimed to be in advanced stage of development. The project is being headed by the headquarters and it includes important changes in the form of design and mechanics. The new SUV features a new hybrid engine, which includes a 1.5L petrol engine with two electric motors.
Source – Financial Express
