The Japanese automaker is planning to expand its Indian product portfolio with two new models – Honda City Hybrid and a mid-size SUV. While the former is reported to arrive early next year (possibly in February), the latter might debut sometime in 2022 or 2023. Talking about Honda’s upcoming mid-size SUV, the model will be positioned against the cars like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun. While there is no official word on its India launch timeline, the new Honda SUV is reported to hit showrooms in the second half of 2023.
The upcoming Honda new SUV could be based on the RS concept that was previewed at this year’s GIIAS Auto Show in Indonesia. The Honda RS Concept features angular wraparound headlamps, new front grille and bumper with a wide airdam, fog lamps with vertical slats, tapering roofline, black plastic cladding, matte black alloy wheels, a contrast roof, slim horizontally positioned LED taillamps and angular tailgate.
Honda’s mid-size SUV will be around 4.3 meters in length and share its platform with the City sedan. Some of its design and styling bits could be borrowed from the new-generation Honda BR-V and the new HR-V. The model is said to target buyers “with an active outdoor lifestyle”. Its interior layout and features could be similar to the new Honda HR-V that’s sold in select global markets. Read – New Honda Civic-Based SUV To Debut in September 2022
For power, the new Honda SUV might use the 1.5L iVTEC petrol engine that’s good enough for 121bhp and 145Nm of torque. It could also be offered with the e:HEV strong hybrid technology that will be used in the upcoming Honda City Hybrid. It will make the new SUV highly frugal. The SUV model lineup will get a CVT automatic gearbox as standard.
More details on the upcoming new Honda mid-size SUV are likely to be revealed in near future. Stay tuned to IndiaCarNews.
