3 New Honda Strong Hybrid SUVs Launching This Year
Japanese car manufacturer Honda has been relatively dormant in the Indian market for a long time. With rising competition, it looks like the company has finally decided to reconsider its plans and update its product lineup to stay relevant.
Internationally, Honda offers several models, but unfortunately, that is not the case in India. Currently, it has the Honda City, Elevate, and Amaze in its lineup. With the demand for SUVs increasing, Honda is now planning to expand its portfolio with new SUV offerings. Here is a list of three strong hybrid SUVs that are expected to be launched in the market soon.
The first SUV on this list is the Elevate Hybrid. Honda initially had plans to launch an electric version of the Elevate. However, due to multiple reasons, the project was shelved, and the company shifted its focus to a hybrid version.
The Elevate Hybrid has been spotted a couple of times and is expected to be based on the facelift that will be launched soon. Honda is also said to be working on a new hybrid system that is lighter, more efficient, and more cost-effective compared to the current one.
While Honda is testing this new system, it is unclear whether the upcoming Elevate Hybrid will feature it or continue with the existing strong hybrid setup seen in the City e:HEV. This system uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a strong hybrid system that includes a battery pack placed in the boot.
The current setup allows the driver to operate the car in EV mode at lower speeds. As the speed increases, the system seamlessly switches to the petrol engine, while also storing energy generated by the engine in the battery for future use.
Next on the list is the ZR-V hybrid SUV. It is expected to be launched by the end of 2026. The SUV will likely be sold as a CBU (Completely Built Unit) and positioned below the Honda CR-V. However, since it will be imported, pricing will play a crucial role in its success.
The ZR-V is expected to come loaded with premium features such as a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Google Assistant integration, Honda Sensing (ADAS suite), a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system, multi-zone climate control, ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera, USB ports, an auto-dimming frameless IRVM, an electric gear selector, multiple drive modes, and more.
It will be offered exclusively as a hybrid and is likely to use a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle petrol engine paired with an eCVT gearbox. Similar to the City hybrid, this system will allow the car to run in EV mode when possible and seamlessly switch to the petrol engine when required.
Honda is also working on a new platform called PF2. It is a modular, hybrid-compatible architecture that will underpin future Honda products. One of the first vehicles to use this platform will be a seven-seater SUV.
This SUV is expected to be heavily localised, which should help Honda keep costs under control. It will also be offered with a hybrid powertrain, making it an efficient option in the segment.
The upcoming seven-seater SUV is expected to compete with models like the Hyundai Alcazar, the upcoming Renault Boreal, and possibly even the Mahindra XUV700.