Honda Cars India is gearing up for a major product expansion, aiming to regain market share in the highly competitive passenger vehicle market. The company currently offers only one SUV the Elevate, alongside the Amaze compact sedan and the City mid-size sedan. The 2026-27 fiscal year will see the launch of three new SUV models, each designed to target different segments of the growing SUV category in India.
This shift is made when the SUVs already make up over 50 percent of the total car sales in India, and the demand in the compact, mid-size, and premium SUV segments is high. The new lineup of Honda will offer new designs, electrified powertrains, and modern features to attract more people.
Honda has confirmed that its first battery-electric vehicle for India will debut in the first half of 2026. Initially, the company considered creating an EV version of the Elevate, but recent reports suggest the upcoming electric SUV will be an entirely new design. Positioned in the mid-size SUV segment, it will compete with Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra BE.06, Tata Curvv EV, and the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara.
Another key model in the pipeline is an all new 7 seat SUV expected to offer both petrol and strong hybrid powertrains. This SUV will be built on Honda’s new PF2 architecture, currently under development. The PF2 platform is flexible enough to support internal combustion, hybrid and fully electric setups. It will also underpin future Honda models including the next-generation City sedan.
Honda has just offered the ZR-V hybrid SUV to its Indian dealer network, which could mean that it might be launched here as a completely built-up (CBU) import. The ZR-V is powered by a 2.0-liter petrol engine with two electric motors internationally, with a combined output of 184 hp and 315 Nm of torque. It takes approximately 7.8 seconds to reach 0-100 km/h and has a maximum speed of 173 km/h, but consumes 22.2 km/l claimed fuel consumption.
Honda is also evaluating a hybrid version of the Elevate for the Indian market. The model would use a locally-produced 1.5-liter hybrid petrol engine, the same unit currently powering the City e:HEV sedan. This engine is also planned for the upcoming 7-seat SUV, ensuring shared technology and cost benefits.
Reports also indicate that Honda may introduce a new compact SUV under four meters in length also based on the PF2 platform. If approved this model would rival popular choices like the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and the upcoming Kia Syros.
A major change in strategy is indicated by the product plan of Honda FY2026-27, where SUVs, hybrid powertrains, and electric mobility are being focused on. Buyers are to expect:
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