Honda’s re-entry into the compact SUV space will take place in 2023, almost five years after the Honda WR-V was discontinued. Since then, the segment has grown significantly, with manufacturers constantly introducing new features, powertrain options and technology upgrades.Honda currently has a limited presence in the mass-market passenger vehicle space, with the Amaze being its only sub-4 meter offering. Honda said it will launch new models by 2028 in two main categories: sub-four-meter vehicles and the mid-size segment. The company also plans to expand its customer base by targeting buyers upgrading from motorcycles to cars. Honda currently sells around 6 million motorcycles in India and plans to increase its two-wheeler production capacity to around 8 million units by 2028.
Honda’s New Sub-4 Meter SUV: What to Expect
Although Honda is yet to reveal detailed specifications of the upcoming SUV, the new model is expected to sit below the Honda Elevate in the brand’s India lineup. Under the hood, Honda may use the familiar 1.2-litre NA petrol engine currently offered with the Honda Amaze. However, with rivals already offering turbo-petrol, CNG and multiple transmission options, Honda may also consider bringing its 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine to India. The engine is already available in some international markets with the Honda City and City Hatchback. Hybrid options cannot be ruled out until the SUV arrives in 2028.
