- Honda looks all set to add a compact SUV to its portfolio
- To share hybrid powertrain with City
Honda is one of the most recognizable brands around the world. However, it is struggling to gather its footing in the Indian market. The Japanese carmaker has announced that it will discontinue some of its models in 2023. This will make the company’s India line-up even less versatile. However, Honda is also planning to add a new hybrid SUV to their portfolio. It will have to compete with the likes of Toyota Hyryder, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Hyundai Creta. It remains to be seen whether the mid-size SUV can revive the brand in the Indian market.
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Honda Compact SUV to Share Powertrain with City
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According to recent reports, the upcoming Honda Hybrid SUV will be powered by a hybrid engine (most likely the same as the fifth-generation Honda City sedan). The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated, four-cylinder engine will offer 119 bhp and 145 Nm of peak torque. The company is likely to provide petrol engine options only. Since a new set of Indian emission norms, adding a diesel engine option would simply increase the price of the SUV. The Honda Hybrid SUV will be based on the modified Honda Amaze’s platform. It is expected to be over 4 meters in length.
Additionally, the mid-size SUV will get a hybrid engine option (same as the City eHEV). It uses a combination of an electric motor and a petrol engine. The 1.5-liter petrol engine works on an Atkinsons cycle. It will be paired with an electric motor. The battery pack will be placed in the boot or floor of the car. The self-charging EV is said to offer better fuel efficiency than a regular petrol engine. It will sport an all-new cabin with a floating type touchscreen infotainment screen, a fully digital instrument cluster, and many more features.
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Launch by April 2023
The upcoming SUV is expected to be launched in the Indian market by April 2023. It is likely to come with an aggressive price tag, thanks to localized production. The upcoming Honda Hybrid SUV might just be sold exclusively in the Indian market. The mid-size SUV segment is filled with many great options from various brands. Without competitive pricing, it will be hard to compete with the likes of Creta, Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, and Skoda Kushaq in the segment.
