The Honda Elevate has emerged as a significant addition to Honda’s lineup, marking the brand’s re-entry into the competitive compact SUV segment in India. Designed to cater to modern urban lifestyles, the Elevate combines practicality, performance, and advanced technology. Below is an in-depth exploration of its launch, specifications, design, safety features, engine performance, technology, efficiency, pricing, and heritage.
Honda Elevate Launch Details
The Honda Elevate was officially unveiled on June 6, 2023, at a global event in New Delhi. This launch marked Honda’s renewed focus on the Indian SUV market after previous models like the CR-V and WR-V struggled to gain traction. The bookings for the Elevate began in July 2023, with deliveries commencing during the festive season. This model represents Honda’s attempt to carve a niche in the compact SUV segment and is positioned as a “perfect urban SUV.” Additionally, Honda has announced plans for an electric version of the Elevate within three years, further emphasizing its commitment to sustainability.
Honda Elevate Specifications and Design
The Honda Elevate is built on the same platform as the popular Honda City sedan but features a distinct design tailored for SUV enthusiasts. It boasts bold styling elements such as a large upright grille, sleek LED headlights, squared wheel arches, and an overall muscular stance. These design cues give it a modern yet rugged look that appeals to urban buyers.
Dimensionally, the Elevate measures 4,312 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, and 1,650 mm in height. It also offers a segment-leading ground clearance of 220 mm and a spacious boot capacity of 458 liters. The interior is equally impressive with premium materials and a focus on ergonomics. A standout feature is its 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Honda Elevate Safety Features
Safety has been a key focus for Honda in designing the Elevate. The SUV comes equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) under the Honda Sensing suite. These include lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking system, and road departure mitigation.
Other safety features include multiple airbags, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), stability control, hill-hold assist, emergency brake lights, reversing camera with sensors, and more. These features ensure that both driver and passengers are well-protected during every journey.
Honda Elevate Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Honda Elevate is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol engine that delivers 119 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT automatic gearbox with paddle shifters for added convenience.
The powertrain is designed for smooth performance in urban settings while also offering enough grunt for highway cruising. While there are no diesel or turbocharged petrol options available at launch, this naturally aspirated engine provides reliable performance and fuel efficiency.
Honda Elevate Technology and Features
The technology suite in the Honda Elevate enhances both convenience and entertainment. Its centerpiece is the large touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless connectivity for smartphones. Other tech highlights include:
– A seven-inch TFT instrument console.
– Connected car technology enabling remote functions.
– Automatic climate control.
– Wireless charging pad.
– Premium audio system.
– A single-pane sunroof for added luxury.
These features make the Elevate a tech-savvy option for buyers seeking modern conveniences.
Honda Elevate Efficiency and Practicality
Fuel efficiency remains one of the strong points of the Honda Elevate. The manual variant offers an ARAI-certified mileage of 15.31 km/l while the CVT variant is slightly more efficient at 16.92 km/l. These figures make it an economical choice for daily commuting as well as long drives.
Practicality is another area where the Elevate excels. Its spacious cabin can comfortably seat five passengers while offering ample legroom and headroom. The high ground clearance ensures that it can handle rough roads with ease.
Honda Elevate Price and Availability
Honda has priced the Elevate competitively to attract buyers in this crowded segment. The base variant starts at approximately ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom), while higher trims go up to ₹16 lakh depending on features and specifications. This pricing positions it against rivals like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.
The availability of multiple trims—SV, V, VX, and ZX—allows customers to choose a model that best fits their budget and requirements.
Honda Elevate Mileage
The mileage figures of 15.31 km/l (manual) and 16.92 km/l (CVT) make the Honda Elevate one of the more fuel-efficient options in its class. These numbers are achieved without compromising on performance or driving dynamics.
Honda Elevate Heritage and Evolution
The introduction of the Honda Elevate represents a significant milestone in Honda’s journey in India’s automotive market. While earlier SUVs like the CR-V struggled to gain popularity due to their premium pricing or lack of localization efforts, the Elevate has been developed specifically for Indian conditions.
Honda’s legacy of engineering excellence shines through in this model as it combines learnings from past products with innovations tailored to modern needs. Furthermore, its upcoming electric variant underscores Honda’s vision for sustainable mobility solutions.
