Honda teases sketch of upcoming mid-sized SUV
Honda’s upcoming mid-sized SUV will be underpinned by a modified iteration of Amaze architecture.
Honda’s presence in the Indian passenger vehicle market has been depleting over the years despite the Japanese automaker catering to mass-market buyers over the years. Come April 2023, the company’s catalogue will only feature two models—Amaze and City.
The carmaker wishes to address this concern by developing a mid-size SUV for the Indian market, rivalling the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, the newly-launched Maruti Grand Vitara, and others. Honda Cars India has now released the first official sketch of the upcoming SUV.
Upcoming Honda mid-size SUV
Internally codenamed PF2S, the new SUV will be based on a modified version of the platform underpinning Amaze. Honda hasn’t revealed the name of the SUV yet but it is likely to measure around 4.3 metres in length. The sketch released isn’t the final design but a preview.
Sketch of the upcoming mid-size SUV released by Honda Design
Like the newer global models coming from Honda, the upcoming SUV is seen flaunting a flat nose featuring the signature multi-slat grille with a large Honda badge sitting at the centre. The grille is flanked by a split LED headlamp setup with sleek DRLs on top and the main cluster on the bumper below.
The front bumper gets a chunky skid plate adding bulk to the overall appearance while the circular, flared wheel arches with thick claddings on the side profile add to the car’s muscular appeal. The teaser image also confirms a coupe-like profile for the SUV with a tapering roofline. Other visual details likely to appear are 17-inch alloy wheels, LED taillamps, and roof rails.
One can expect this upcoming mid-sized SUV to be equipped with all the bells and whistles, including features like a touchscreen infotainment system, wireless phone charging, a 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, connected car technology, etc. It is also likely to offer Honda Sensing, which is the brand’s version of Advanced Driver’s Assistance System (ADAS).
As for the powertrain, the upcoming SUV is likely to come with two options—a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated i-Vtec petrol engine and a strong hybrid 1.5-litre engine. The former could be offered with either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic gearbox whereas the strong hybrid option will be available with an eCVT gearbox as standard.
Sub-4 metre SUV from Honda
Apart from the compact mid-sized SUV, Honda is also developing a sub-4 metre SUV for the Indian market, which is expected to make its debut later this year. Internally codenamed PF2, the upcoming subcompact SUV, like its larger sibling, will also be underpinned by the same modified platform of Amaze.
Upcoming subcompact SUV from Honda is likely to be in line with the new-gen WR-V
This model will, however, be less than four metres in length, making it eligible for tax benefits. It is likely to be powered by a 1.2-litre iVtec naturally aspirated petrol mill borrowed from the Amaze and paired with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a CVT automatic unit. This motor kicks out 90 bhp and 110 Nm of peak torque.
Our guess is this new subcompact SUV will be on the lines of the new-gen WR-V that recently made its global debut. Both the upcoming subcompact and mid-sized SUVs will be heavily localised and likely to be priced competitively. Honda hasn’t confirmed any launch timelines for either of these SUVs but they are expected to make their debuts sometime later this year.
Edited by Kanishk Singh