Honda Cars India recently achieved the 20lakh cumulative production milestone in the country. The company rolled out its 2 millionth unit (Honda City sedan) from its Tapukara manufacturing plant. In October 2022, the Japanese automaker recorded profitability for the first time in three years. In order to make its Indian operations break even, Honda will upgrade its sales network with an investment around Rs 260 crore. It will make its dealership more premium and enhance customer experience.
The Japanese automaker has already confirmed two new SUVs for India including a mid-size SUV and a compact SUV. While the former will see a release in 2024, the latter will hit showrooms around mid 2023. Both SUVs will be designed on the Amaze platform. Codenamed PF2, the new Honda mid-size SUV will be positioned against the Hyundai Creta and it’s likely to share powertrain with the new City. Its length will be around 4.3 meters.
If Honda use the localized version of the City Hybrid’s powertrain, it will high on mileage and take on the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder strong hybrid SUVs. Rumour has it that Honda is considering 6 and 7-seater variants of the SUV. Its 7-seater version will compete against the Hyundai Alcazar.
Honda’s upcoming new compact SUV is likely to have high-riding stance and rugged styling. Some of its design elements could be inspired by the new Honda BR-V. Under the hood, the SUV might employ the 1.2L petrol engine borrowed from the Amaze compact sedan. Similar to the mid-size SUV, the new Honda compact SUV might come with the hybrid technology.
The Japanese automaker will also give a mid-life update to its popular City sedan. The new Honda City facelift is likely to come with the ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) along with the updated infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity and new connected car tech.
