Honda is actively working on a facelifted version of its popular Elevate SUV. Following the recent update of the City sedan, the automaker is now preparing to introduce several new features and design enhancements to the Elevate. According to reports, the upcoming facelift could bring a number of premium features that are currently offered only as optional accessories.
Kunal Behl, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Honda Cars India, has indicated that features such as a 360-degree camera and ventilated seats could eventually become part of the regular model lineup rather than being offered exclusively through accessory packages.
What New Features Can Be Expected?
The current Honda Elevate offers accessories such as ventilated seat covers, a 360-degree camera, and ambient lighting. With the facelift, these features are expected to be integrated into the mid- and top-spec variants. The SUV may also receive the new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that recently debuted on the updated Honda City.
Honda could also expand the availability of its ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) package to more variants. Additionally, buyers can expect updated upholstery options, improved cabin finishes, and subtle interior design enhancements.
On the exterior, the facelifted Elevate is likely to feature redesigned front and rear bumpers, updated headlamps and taillamps with new lighting signatures, and a fresh set of alloy wheels. However, a heavily camouflaged test mule spotted recently revealed very few details about the final design changes.
Engine Likely to Remain Unchanged
Under the hood, the facelifted Elevate is expected to retain its current 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which produces 121hp and 145Nm of torque. Transmission options are likely to remain the same, including a 6-speed manual gearbox and a CVT automatic transmission.
Honda is expected to launch the updated Elevate during the second half of this year. With the addition of new features, the SUV could command a slight price premium over the existing model.
Honda Working on a New Sub-4-Metre SUV
Beyond the Elevate, Honda is planning to expand its SUV portfolio in the coming years. The company is reportedly developing a new compact SUV and a midsize SUV, both of which are expected to arrive after 2028.
Through its upcoming sub-4-metre SUV, Honda aims to establish a stronger presence in the rapidly growing compact SUV segment. The company believes its large two-wheeler customer base could provide a significant competitive advantage.
Honda sells nearly six million two-wheelers annually and hopes to convert many of its loyal motorcycle and scooter customers into first-time car buyers. At present, the brand does not have a product in the sub-4-metre SUV category, a gap it intends to fill in the future.
Focus on Finance and Digital Services
In addition to expanding its product lineup, Honda is strengthening its overall ecosystem to support long-term growth. As part of this strategy, the company has launched Honda Finance India Private Limited, a dedicated financing arm that will offer attractive loan and leasing solutions, particularly for first-time car buyers.
Honda has also established a new platform called Honda Digital Innovation India, designed to integrate customer data across both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. The platform will enable the company to provide personalized financial solutions, connected vehicle services, used-car offerings, and other digital experiences.
According to Honda, sustainable growth cannot be achieved through new product launches alone. Building long-term customer relationships and delivering value-added services will play a crucial role in the company’s future strategy and commitment to the Indian market.