Honda Cars India has announced a comprehensive plan to expand its SUV and electric vehicle (EV) portfolio by 2030. This roadmap includes the introduction of four all-new SUVs between late 2025 and 2027, with a mix of hybrid, electric, and premium offerings. With this aggressive expansion strategy, Honda aims to strengthen its presence in India’s fast-growing SUV segment, where rivals like Hyundai, Kia, Maruti Suzuki, and Toyota already have a strong footing.
The upcoming lineup includes the Honda ZR-V, Elevate EV, Elevate Hybrid, and an all-new 7-seater Hybrid SUV.
Why Honda’s SUV Roadmap Matters
- EV Strategy: Elevate EV will make India a production hub for Honda’s global EV exports.
- Hybrid Push: Elevate Hybrid and 7-seater Hybrid SUV will cater to buyers looking for efficiency without EV limitations.
- Premium Segment Expansion: ZR-V will give Honda a foothold in the premium midsize SUV segment.
- Flagship SUV: The 7-seater will elevate Honda’s brand presence and compete in India’s lucrative family SUV market.
- Comprehensive Portfolio: With ICE, hybrid, and EV models, Honda will have a complete lineup by 2027.
Quick Summary
Model |
Expected Launch |
Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
Honda ZR-V |
Late 2025 or Early 2026 |
Premium 5-seater hybrid SUV, 180 bhp, ADAS, 11 airbags, Bose audio |
Honda Elevate EV |
2026 |
First full-electric SUV from Honda India, based on Elevate, global production hub at Tapukara |
Honda Elevate Hybrid |
H2 2026 (Diwali Season) |
Hybrid version of Elevate, likely with City’s 1.5L Atkinson cycle engine |
Honda Hybrid 7-Seater SUV |
2027 |
Flagship three-row SUV, hybrid and NA petrol options, positioned above Elevate |
Official Website |
Honda ZR-V – A Premium 5-Seater SUV
Honda is considering the ZR-V for the Indian market, though final approval is still pending. If launched, this SUV will be positioned above the Elevate and targeted at premium midsize SUV buyers.
- Dimensions: 4.56 metres in length.
- Powertrain: Globally offered with a 2.0L petrol engine paired with two electric motors delivering 180 bhp.
- Transmission: Electric CVT gearbox with AWD system for enhanced driving dynamics.
- Features:
- 12-speaker Bose sound system.
- Wireless charging pad.
- Honda Connect connected car suite.
- Honda Sensing suite (ADAS) with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking.
- 11 airbags for safety.
- Multiple drive modes.
If priced competitively, the ZR-V could emerge as a strong rival to the Hyundai Tucson, Citroën C5 Aircross, and Jeep Compass.
Honda Elevate EV – Honda’s First Electric SUV for India
Honda is working on a compact electric SUV project codenamed ACE (Asian Compact Electric), and the Elevate EV will be its first product.
- Platform: Based on the ICE Elevate but re-engineered for electric mobility.
- Production Hub: Honda’s Tapukara plant in Rajasthan will be the global hub for this EV.
- Export Strategy: 50–70% of production will be exported to international markets, including Japan.
- Launch Timeline: Expected in 2026, likely during the first half.
With its entry into the Indian EV space, Honda will compete with models like the Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, and Maruti Suzuki eVX.
Honda Elevate Hybrid – Expanding the Elevate Lineup
Alongside the EV, Honda will also launch the Elevate Hybrid SUV around Diwali 2026.
- Engine: Expected to feature the 1.5L Atkinson cycle petrol hybrid powertrain borrowed from the Honda City Hybrid.
- Power Output: Likely to deliver around 116 bhp combined.
- Pricing: Could be Rs 2–2.5 lakh more expensive than the standard Elevate petrol variants.
- Efficiency: Designed to deliver excellent fuel economy, making it attractive for urban buyers.
This model will target environmentally conscious buyers who are not yet ready to switch to fully electric cars.
Honda 7-Seater Hybrid SUV – Flagship Model for India
Honda’s most ambitious project for India will be its new flagship three-row hybrid SUV, expected in 2027.
- Platform: Built on the upcoming PF2 global platform.
- Development: Jointly developed by Honda Japan and Thailand R&D centers, with significant inputs from India.
- Engines:
- 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine.
- Strong hybrid powertrain (likely similar to Elevate Hybrid’s unit).
- Positioning: Above the Elevate, targeting larger families and premium SUV buyers.
- Production Start: Scheduled for October 2027 in India.
This SUV will rival the Toyota Innova Hycross, Tata Safari, and Hyundai Alcazar.
Honda’s PF2 Platform – Future Ready
The new PF2 platform will underpin Honda’s future small and midsize vehicles. Designed to accommodate hybrid and electric powertrains, it highlights Honda’s global shift toward green mobility. The upcoming 7-seater hybrid SUV will be the first model on this architecture.
FAQs About Upcoming Honda SUVs in India
Q1. How many SUVs is Honda launching in India by 2027?
Honda will launch four SUVs – ZR-V, Elevate EV, Elevate Hybrid, and a 7-seater Hybrid SUV.
Q2. When will the Honda Elevate EV launch in India?
The Elevate EV is expected to launch in 2026, with production from the Tapukara plant.
Q3. Will the Honda ZR-V be available in India?
Yes, Honda is considering the ZR-V hybrid SUV for India, with a launch expected around late 2025 or early 2026.
Q4. What will be Honda’s flagship SUV in India?
The Honda Hybrid 7-seater SUV, arriving in 2027, will serve as the flagship model.
Q5. What is Honda’s PF2 platform?
It is a new global platform for Honda’s small and midsize hybrid/EV vehicles. The 7-seater SUV will be its first model in India.
Conclusion
Honda is finally making bold moves to reclaim its position in the Indian market. With a balanced mix of EVs, hybrids, and premium SUVs, the brand is targeting every major SUV segment. From the premium ZR-V to the mass-market Elevate EV and Hybrid, and finally the flagship 7-seater SUV, Honda’s strategy for 2026–27 signals its long-term commitment to India.
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