Honda has unveiled an all-new crossover in India, marking the marque’s re-entry into the nation’s SUV market after the discontinuation of the CR-V and HR-V. Dubbed the ‘Elevate’, the new compact crossover will enter the crowded B-segment SUV market in India, competing against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, as well as the Suzuki Grand Vitara.
Pricing for the new compact crossover has yet to be announced, but estimates are placing it around the 1.05 million rupees mark (approx. RM59k), placing it right in line with its other rivals in the segment.
The all-new Honda Elevate looks like a shrunken down sixth-gen CR-V with design elements borrowed from the WR-V, and – oddly – a hint of the Perodua Ativa as well – particularly on the flat front fascia and triangular fog light housings on the front bumper.
It measures in a little larger than the Hyundai Creta and HR-V that we have here, but a significantly longer wheelbase (2,650 mm) means that the Honda Elevate should boast superior interior space over its rivals. The official spec sheet states a boot space of 458 litres, compared to the 416L of the Creta.
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Detailed equipment appointment will only be available at a later date, but they’ll include the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, seven=inch digital instrument cluster, Honda Connect telematics, two-tone 17-inch wheels, sunroof, reverse camera, and the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance features.
Underneath the bonnet is a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated inline-four engine making 121 hp and 145 Nm, similar to what powers the Honda City and City Hatchback. Drive is sent to the front wheels via either a CVT gearbox or a six-speed manual.
A hybrid powertrain will also be offered later, using the same 1.5-litre e:HEV mill as found in the City RS e:HEV. Within the next three years, Honda also plans to introduce a fully-electric BEV model for the Elevate in India.
Honda says that the Elevate is a global model, with India set to serve as an important export hub for the new model to other parts of the world. Would you be interested in yet another compact crossover here in our Malaysian market, perhaps in fully-electric form? Let us know in the comments below!
READ MORE: Honda BR-V discontinued in Malaysia, to be replaced by all-new WR-V
