Recent spy images reveal that Honda is testing a hybrid version of the Elevate SUV in Brazil, indicating potential international launch plans. The hybrid is expected to share the powertrain with the City e:HEV, while retaining a similar interior layout to its India-spec counterpart. Initially, Honda had no plans to introduce a hybrid model in India but may now reconsider its approach amid evolving market demands.
Honda has been testing a hybrid variant of its Elevate SUV in Brazil, suggesting that it might be preparing to launch this eco-friendly model internationally. Initially introduced in the Indian market without a hybrid option—though the platform shares features with the Honda City, which does offer a hybrid version—the company appears to have kept their plans tightly under wraps. Recent spy photographs showcase a fully camouflaged Elevate model that aligns with the specifications offered in India, characterized by a distinctive flat front face, sleek LED headlights, and updated alloy wheels. While the exterior details remain largely obscured due to the camouflage, the interior is expected to mirror the India-spec model, featuring a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch multimedia display, and advanced safety options including Honda Sensing, which incorporates automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Under the hood, the Elevate hybrid is anticipated to utilize the same powertrain as the City e:HEV, combining a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine and two electric motors. The petrol engine produces 98 bhp and 126 Nm of torque, while the electric motors generate an additional 108 bhp and 253 Nm of torque, ensuring an efficient and powerful driving experience.
The Honda Elevate debuted in a competitive compact C-segment SUV market in India but initially lacked a strong hybrid variant. This absence was perceived as an oversight since the underlying architecture shares components with the Honda City, which is available with a hybrid powertrain. With the emergence of new images from Brazil showcasing a hybrid model in testing, it indicates that Honda has been developing a greener iteration of this vehicle. Additionally, Honda previously mentioned plans for a fully electric version of the Elevate, expected to launch by 2026, which raises questions about whether a hybrid variant could be a feasible addition to its portfolio given the shifting market dynamics.
In summary, the testing of the Honda Elevate hybrid in Brazil indicates a potential shift in Honda’s strategy towards hybrid vehicles. While the company initially stated it would not offer a hybrid model in India, the evolution of global market trends towards electrification could lead Honda to reconsider its stance. With the robust powertrain already seen in the City e:HEV, the Elevate hybrid could enhance Honda’s offerings in a saturated Indian SUV market. Furthermore, the anticipated introduction of a fully electric variant by 2026 strengthens Honda’s commitment to sustainable vehicles, though introducing a hybrid may provide immediate consumer benefits.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
