Upcoming Honda SUVs in India:- The Indian automotive market has seen a massive shift towards SUVs, with these vehicles now accounting for over 50% of passenger car sales. Honda, a brand long known for its reliable sedans like the City and Amaze, is doubling down on this trend. After the successful launch of the Elevate in 2023, Honda is now gearing up to introduce three new SUVs in India within the next two to three years, by 2027. These upcoming models—a compact electric SUV, a spacious 7-seater, and a subcompact contender—aim to capture different segments of the market.

Let’s explore each of these exciting launches, their expected features, specs, and how they might fare against competitors in India’s crowded SUV space.

What Makes the Honda Elevate EV a Game-Changer for India in 2026?

Honda is set to make a bold move into the electric vehicle (EV) space in India with the launch of the Elevate EV in 2026. The Elevate, which debuted as a petrol-only mid-size SUV in 2023, has already gained a foothold with its competitive pricing, starting at ₹11.73 lakh (ex-showroom), and features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System). The Elevate EV, internally codenamed DG9D, will build on this foundation as part of Honda’s Asian Compact Electric (ACE) project, aligning with the company’s global goal of carbon neutrality by 2040.

The Elevate EV will be based on a modified version of the existing Elevate platform, rather than a dedicated EV architecture. While this might disappoint some EV purists who prefer “born-electric” platforms for better range and space utilization, it’s a practical choice for India, where EV infrastructure is still evolving, and affordability is key. The Elevate EV is expected to house a 40-50 kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed range of over 400 kilometers. In real-world conditions, this could translate to 300-350 kilometers, making it suitable for urban commutes and short highway trips.

Design-wise, the Elevate EV will feature subtle changes to distinguish it from its petrol sibling. Expect a closed-off front grille, updated headlamp designs with LED DRLs, and a revised bumper to give it a futuristic look. Inside, the cabin will likely retain the same layout as the current Elevate, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a semi-digital instrument cluster, and EV-specific graphics on the displays. Additional features like wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, and ventilated seats might be included in higher variants to appeal to premium buyers.

The Elevate EV will go up against strong contenders like the Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV, and upcoming models such as the Hyundai Creta EV and Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara. Honda plans to manufacture this electric SUV at its Tapukara facility in Rajasthan, which is being upgraded for EV production. Notably, India will serve as an export hub for the Elevate EV, with 50-70% of the production earmarked for markets like Japan.

Here’s a breakdown of the expected specifications for the Honda Elevate EV:

Feature	Details
Battery Pack	40-50 kWh
Claimed Range	Over 400 km
Real-World Range	300-350 km (estimated)
Launch Timeline	2026

Pricing will play a pivotal role in the Elevate EV’s success. Given the petrol Elevate’s starting price, the electric version is likely to be priced between ₹17-20 lakh (ex-showroom) to stay competitive. For more insights into Honda’s electrification strategy, you can visit their official EV page at ev.honda.com.

Why Is Honda’s New 7-Seater SUV Perfect for Indian Families by 2027?

Next on Honda’s list is a flagship 7-seater SUV, slated for launch by the end of 2027. This model will sit above the Elevate in Honda’s lineup, targeting family buyers who prioritize space, comfort, and versatility. The Indian market has a strong appetite for 7-seater SUVs, with models like the Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari, and Hyundai Alcazar dominating the segment. Honda aims to carve out a niche in this competitive space with its upcoming 7-seater SUV.

This SUV will be built on Honda’s new modular platform, codenamed PF2, which is designed to support multiple powertrains, including petrol, hybrid, and potentially electric variants in the future. For the 7-seater SUV, Honda is expected to offer a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, similar to the one in the Elevate and City, delivering 121 bhp and 145 Nm of torque. A strong hybrid option, like the one in the City e:HEV, might also be available, combining a 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

The 7-seater SUV’s design is being developed by Honda’s R&D centers in Japan and Thailand, with significant inputs from India to ensure it meets local preferences. Expect a bold and modern exterior with LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the cabin will feature a 3-row seating layout in a 2+3+2 configuration, offering ample space for seven passengers. Features like a large touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital instrument cluster, Level-2 ADAS, and rear AC vents are likely to be standard, making it a feature-rich option for families.

Pricing could be a challenge for this SUV, as it will be positioned above the Elevate. The 7-seater SUV might start at around ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom), with the top-end hybrid variant going up to ₹25 lakh. This puts it in direct competition with the XUV700 and Safari, but Honda’s reputation for refinement and reliability could give it an edge.

Here’s a summary of the key aspects of the Honda 7-Seater SUV:

Feature	Details
Platform	PF2 Modular Architecture
Engine Options	1.5L Petrol, 1.5L Strong Hybrid
Seating Capacity	7 (2+3+2 layout)
Launch Timeline	End of 2027

How Will Honda’s Subcompact SUV Compete with Brezza and Nexon in 2026-2027?

The third SUV in Honda’s pipeline is a subcompact SUV, expected to hit the market by late 2026 or early 2027. This model will compete in the highly competitive sub-4-meter SUV segment, which includes best-sellers like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. Honda previously had a presence in this segment with the WR-V, but it was discontinued in 2023 due to BS6 Phase-II emission norms. Now, the company is planning a comeback, possibly reviving the WR-V nameplate with a new model.

This subcompact SUV will likely be based on a shortened version of the Elevate platform, modified to fit the sub-4-meter length requirement for tax benefits in India. The design will draw inspiration from the Elevate, featuring a bold front grille, sleek LED headlights, and a high-riding stance to appeal to Indian buyers. Inside, the cabin will be practical and feature-packed, with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a semi-digital instrument cluster, an electric sunroof, and wireless charging to match competitors.

Under the hood, the subcompact SUV is expected to use the 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine from the Amaze, producing 90 bhp and 110 Nm of torque. It will be available with both manual and CVT gearbox options. While this engine is reliable and fuel-efficient, it might feel underpowered compared to turbo-petrol options offered by rivals like the Nexon and Venue. Honda might consider introducing a turbo-petrol variant later to address this gap, but there’s no confirmation yet.

Safety will be a key focus for this SUV, with features like 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and possibly Level-2 ADAS, similar to the new Amaze. Given the segment’s price sensitivity, the subcompact SUV is expected to be priced between ₹8-12 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an attractive option for first-time SUV buyers.

What Does Honda’s SUV Strategy Mean for Indian Buyers?

Honda’s decision to launch these three SUVs reflects its understanding of the Indian market’s shift towards SUVs. In 2024, the company’s market share dropped to just 1.45% (April-October FY25), down from 2.35% in FY23, largely due to its limited SUV offerings. The Elevate, while initially successful, has seen declining sales, and sedans like the Amaze and City are struggling in an SUV-dominated market. By introducing the Elevate EV, a 7-seater SUV, and a subcompact SUV, Honda aims to cater to diverse buyer needs, from eco-conscious urban drivers to budget-conscious families.

The Elevate EV will appeal to buyers looking for sustainable mobility options, especially in cities where EV charging infrastructure is improving. The 7-seater SUV targets family buyers who need space and modern features, while the subcompact SUV aims to attract first-time buyers in the sub-4-meter segment. Honda’s emphasis on safety, with features like ADAS across its lineup, and its focus on electrification align with global trends and Indian consumer preferences.

However, Honda faces challenges. The absence of diesel engines in its lineup might impact sales of the 7-seater SUV, as diesel options are preferred in this segment for their torque and fuel efficiency. The Elevate EV’s adapted platform might not match the range or space of born-electric competitors like the Tata Curvv EV. Pricing will also be critical—Honda must balance premium features with affordability to compete effectively.

Final Thoughts: Honda’s SUV Future Looks Bright in India

Honda’s upcoming SUVs signal a strong comeback strategy for the Indian market, where the company has struggled to maintain its market share in recent years. The Elevate EV, 7-seater SUV, and subcompact SUV each target distinct segments, ensuring Honda appeals to a wide range of buyers. While challenges like the lack of diesel engines and the need for competitive pricing remain, Honda’s reputation for reliability, safety, and refinement could help these SUVs stand out.

For more insights on upcoming cars and automotive trends in India, visit CarCraft.in for detailed reviews and updates. With these three SUVs, Honda is well-positioned to regain its footing in the Indian SUV market by 2027. Which of these upcoming Honda SUVs are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!