Over the next few years, Honda Cars India wants to increase the number of SUVs it offers. The automaker has already made known that it intends to compete with the domination of the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Brezza, respectively, by launching a mid-size SUV and a sub-4 metre SUV. The Amaze platform will be used to design both variants. A recent media source states that the PF2 codenamed Honda mid-size SUV would begin to appear in stores in April 2023.
The new Honda SUV, which measures about 4.2 metres in length, is anticipated to come with two engine choices: a 1.5L normally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.5L petrol hybrid engine. An Atkinson Cycle 1.5L gasoline engine is mated to two electric motors in the hybrid arrangement, which will be taken from the City e: HEV sedan. It promises a fuel efficiency of 16.5 km and a range of 1,000 km. The outputs of power and torque are 126bhp and 253Nm, respectively.
The upcoming months are likely to see the release of further information on the forthcoming Honda SUV. Both a manual and an eCVT automatic transmission are anticipated to be available. The business will stop manufacturing its 1.5L i-DTEC diesel motor in India in February 2023; therefore, diesel engines will only be available on time. To upgrade its diesel engines and comply with the upcoming new RDE (Real Driving Emissions) requirements, the automaker must invest significantly.
The new Honda SUV will have five seats and a fully furnished interior with adequate space. The vehicle will probably come equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a digital instrument panel, a new-generation touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone compatibility, and more.
The base model of Honda’s mid-size SUV is expected to cost roughly Rs 16 lakh, while the top-end model is expected to cost Rs 18 lakh (ex-showroom). The Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, and Kia Seltos are the models this vehicle will directly compete against in its segment.