Honda’s upcoming mid-size SUV is ready to make its global debut in coming months, followed by its India launch in mid 2023. Here, it will be put up against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder. The model is expected to be priced from Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. The carmaker’s Tapukara based plant in Rajasthan will serve as production hub for the new Honda SUV. Honda Cars India aims to increase its production capacity from 540 units per day to up to 660 units, starting from April 2023.
Design, Dimensions, Platform
Ahead of its marker arrival, the carmaker released a teaser image showing its silhouette and upright stance. Design of the new Honda SUV will be inspired by the brand’s global-spec HR-V and WR-V SUVs. At the front, the model will feature a multi-slate grille with a signature badge , LED headlamps with LED DRLs, a uniquely designed bumper with a dedicated air dam, circular fog lamps, and a long hood. It will have a coupe-like tapering roof, flared wheel aches with chunky cladding. The midsize SUV will be around 4.2-4.3 metres long and underpin the modified version of the Amaze’s platform.
Feature Attractions
One of its major features will be the radar-based ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) tech as we have seen on the City hybrid. The suite offers advanced passive and active safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist system, road departure mitigation, automatic emergency braking, collision mitigation braking system and auto high beam. Read – Honda Plans to Launch Electric Cars In India
Its safety kit will also include 6 airbags, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, hill launch assist, electronic parking brake and ABS with EBD. The SUV might get Honda’s Lane Watch system, connected car tech and a 360 degree camera.
Powertrain Options
Engine specifications of the new Honda SUV are yet to be revealed. Though, it’s reported to be offered with the 1.5L iVTEC petrol and 1.5L Atkinson cycle with e:HEV hybrid tech powertrain options. The petrol motor pushes out a maximum power of 121bhp and 145Nm of torque and the hybrid setup delivers power worth 109bhp and 253Nm of torque. Transmission choices might include a 6-speed manual and a CVT automatic.
