Honda readies new sub-4 metre SUV to rival Nexon, Brezza by 2028

Honda Cars India is preparing to launch several new models to strengthen its position in the Indian automobile market. The company is focusing heavily on its SUV and electric car portfolio, and a new sub-4 metre SUV is expected to launch in the Indian market by 2028.

The upcoming Honda SUV is likely to be designed keeping Indian customers' needs and preferences in mind. Once launched, it is expected to compete directly with popular compact SUVs such as the Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite.

According to Honda's upcoming plans, the company intends to launch several new models in India by 2030, with a particular focus on small and mid-size SUVs as well as electric vehicles. As part of this strategy, the new Honda SUV could arrive in the Indian market in 2028, though the company has not yet announced an official launch date.

The sub-4 metre SUV segment is considered important for Honda, as the company's presence in this segment has shrunk following the discontinuation of models such as the Brio, Jazz and WR-V. The Amaze is currently Honda's main model under 4 metres in length. Through the new SUV, Honda is looking to strengthen its presence once again in the fast-growing compact SUV market.

No concrete information has emerged yet about the features and powertrain of the new Honda SUV. It is said that the SUV could be built on Honda's Global Small Car Platform or another new modular platform. Since such platforms can accommodate different powertrains, the upcoming SUV is expected to be offered with petrol as well as possibly hybrid or electric powertrains. However, Honda has not given any official information on engine capacity, hybrid system, battery capacity, power or electric range, so these remain possibilities for now.

Alongside the new sub-4 metre SUV, Honda's existing SUV lineup is also set for updates. The company is preparing to launch the Honda Elevate facelift, which is expected to get minor design changes and some new features, while retaining the current petrol engine.

Honda is also preparing to expand its presence in the Indian electric car market. The company reportedly plans to bring the Honda 0 Alpha EV to India, where it could compete with electric SUVs such as the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Sierra EV and MG ZS EV. However, official information on its India launch, pricing, battery and range is still awaited.

Honda is also considering importing a limited number of some global models for sale in India, which could include the Civic, Accord and CR-V Hybrid. The company may also consider introducing the Honda Prelude Hybrid sports car in India as a premium "halo product". However, Honda has not officially confirmed the India launch of the Civic, Accord, CR-V Hybrid or Prelude Hybrid.

Overall, Honda's Indian portfolio could see a shift through models such as the new SUV in 2028, the Elevate facelift and the 0 Alpha EV. Its entry into the sub-4 metre SUV segment in particular will put it in direct competition with the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Maruti Suzuki Brezza and other popular SUVs. However, the full picture will only become clear once Honda reveals the official launch date, engine, features, price and powertrain details of the new SUV.