Honda Elevate facelift to launch in India on October 6 with design, cabin and feature changes

Honda Cars India will launch the facelifted version of its popular mid-size SUV, the Elevate, in India on October 6. It will be the first major update the Elevate receives since it went on sale in 2023.

The company has focused mainly on the exterior design, cabin and features of the new model. Major changes to the engine and gearbox are not expected.

Bookings for the facelift have already begun. Customers can book the SUV with a booking amount of Rs 21,000.

The biggest changes will be seen in the exterior design. The front has a new grille and horizontal, segmented LED DRLs. The Honda logo is no longer on the grille but has been placed at the front of the bonnet. A new chrome element is also visible above the grille. The teaser also showed a new grey exterior colour option.

The main LED headlamps and the eyebrow-style DRLs of the current model have been retained. The design of the 17-inch alloy wheels does not appear to have changed much. A connected LED tail-light setup at the rear will be a key update. Even with the body shape unchanged, it will make the new Elevate look more modern.

Among the features, a 360-degree camera is considered the most significant update, and is seen as a major upgrade over the current model. It can be very useful while parking and driving in tight spaces. A camera-based IRVM, or inside rear-view mirror, may also be offered. Official information on which variant will get the 360-degree camera will be clear after the launch.

Several changes have also been made to the cabin. The updated cabin shown by the company has a lighter and more premium colour theme than the current model. The dashboard has more white leatherette padding and new stitching. Amber ambient lighting will be offered on the dashboard and door panels. The seat design may also change.

On the engine, no major mechanical changes are expected. The current model's 1.5-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine is likely to continue. It produces 121 bhp of power and 145 Nm of torque. The company has therefore concentrated mainly on design and features in the facelift.

The gearbox options of a 6-speed manual and a CVT automatic are also likely to continue. The CVT variant gets paddle shifters. Honda has so far released no information about a new automatic gearbox.

Overall, the company has focused on giving the SUV a new look, an updated cabin and modern features without a major change to its basic design. Pricing, variant-wise features and all official details will be clear after the October 6 launch.