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Honda Motors has announced plans to launch a new compact SUV for India in its recent Global Financial Results press conference. This model can come in the market by 2028. This announcement is important because with this Honda is making a comeback in the sub-4 meter SUV segment. The company had discontinued its popular WR-V model in March 2023, after which its presence in this segment ended.<\/p>\n
The new SUV will be developed keeping in mind the needs of the Indian market and the preferences of the customers. Honda Director, President and Representative Executive Officer Toshihiro Mibe said that the company will develop specifications that completely match the Indian market conditions and customer needs. He also admitted that the earlier global standard approach had proved to be a bit expensive and overkill for India.<\/p>\n
Honda Compact SUV: What to Expect?<\/h3>\n
Honda has not yet shared any official details of the design, engine or features of this SUV. However, this model will be completely tuned according to Indian conditions. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (which is used in the Amaze) could be a part of its powertrain.<\/p>\n
It remains to be seen whether the new model will come only with petrol engine or hybrid and electric variants will also be offered. The company’s strategy is to balance performance and price, so that it remains within the reach of the common Indian customer. Its starting ex-showroom price may be less than \u20b9 10 lakh.<\/p>\n
Why does Honda need a new compact model?<\/h3>\n
Honda has previously introduced compact vehicles like Brio, Jazz hatchback and WR-V SUV in India. After their phase-wise closure, the company’s presence has become limited. Currently only Amaze is available in the sub-4 meter segment.<\/p>\n
Toshihiro Mibe admitted that Honda has presence only in limited product segments, due to which sales are not growing to their full potential. Due to the new GST structure, the demand for compact models is increasing again. In such a situation, this new SUV can help Honda in getting back the required volume and market share.<\/p>\n
10 new vehicles will arrive by 2030<\/h3>\n
Apart from the new sub-4 meter SUV, Honda will also bring a new vehicle in the mid-size segment, which could possibly be the 0 Alpha electric SUV. Both models are part of the company’s larger plan to launch 10 new vehicles in India by 2030, out of which seven will be SUVs. Talking about short term, Honda is going to launch City facelift next week, pictures of which have already been leaked.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n