Honda added yet another SUV to its portfolio, in the form of the all-new Elevate. The model that deviates from the usual three-letter naming strategy will be produced in India as a global model with export markets set to follow in the near future. The Honda Elevate was introduced with a non-electrified petrol engine but a fully electric variant has been confirmed to follow within the next three years.
The Elevate looks chubbier and boxier compared to the EU-spec HR-V and the ZR-V, revealing its budget-oriented character. The large grille is highlighted by a chrome strip that connects the LED headlights, while the tall nose emphasizes its SUV credentials. The profile is a little conservative for 2023 standards, with the 17-inch wheels looking small for the vehicle’s height. The rear end is easier to identify as a Honda, with L-shaped LED taillights and a typically large tailgate.
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Despite Honda’s best efforts with the saddle-colored leather upholstery and the faux wood accents, the interior of the new Elevate looks to be more value-focused. The analog dials on the instrument cluster are joined by a 7-inch display, while a 10.25-inch free-standing touchscreen on the center console houses the infotainment. Available features include an electric sunroof, a wireless charging pad, rear A/C vents, and plenty of storage compartments all around the cabin.
Unlike other rivals in emerging markets, the Elevate does come however with a full range of ADAS, courtesy of the Honda Sensing suite, plus six standard airbags. The automaker also brags about the spacious cabin and the 458 lt (16.2 cubic feet) of cargo space.
Honda describes the Elevate as a mid-size SUV following the segmentation of the Indian market, although it would probably slot between B-SUVs and C-SUVs in Europe. The new Elevate measures 4,312 mm (169.8 inches) long, 1,790 mm (70.5 inches) wide, and 1,650 mm (65 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm (106.3 inches) and a generous ground clearance of 220 mm (8.7 inches). This footprint is very similar to the EU-spec HR-V and puts it right against rivals including the Hyundai Creta / Kia Seltos, the VW Taigun / Skoda Kushaq, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara / Toyota Hyryder.
The new model was developed in Honda’s Asia Pacific R&D Center in Thailand. It is actually based on the platform of the Honda City, featuring improved rigidity and a comfort-oriented suspension setup. Under the bonnet lies a familiar 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol powertrain producing 119 hp (89 kW / 121 PS) and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque just like in the sedan. Power is transmitted to the front axle through either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed CVT. There is no mention of a hybrid option but a zero-emission variant with a fully electric powertrain has been confirmed for the future.
The Honda Elevate will be produced at the Tapukara plant in Rajasthan, India as one of the 5 new SUVs that will be launched in the local market by 2030. Honda will start accepting orders in India this July, ahead of its launch in export markets.
