Honda is working on an all-new SUV that is expected to be positioned between the HR-V (Vezel for some markets) and the CR-V in the carmaker’s global portfolio. As per this website, this new Honda SUV will likely be based on the new-gen Civic’s platform and could also share its powertrain options. The new SUV is likely to see a global debut around September 2022.
- New Honda SUV to be positioned between HR-V and CR-V
- Will likely share its platform and engine options with the new Civic
- Global debut expected around September 2022
New Honda Civic-based SUV: what is known so far?
While there isn't much technical detail available about this upcoming Civic-based SUV as of yet, what is known is that Honda is looking to expand its SUV portfolio to tap into the ever-growing demand for SUVs. In terms of size, this upcoming SUV is expected to measure larger than the new-gen Honda HR-V, although it will slot in below the larger CR-V in the company’s line-up.
The new-gen HR-V (or Vezel) was unveiled in February this year, measuring just above 4.3m in length. Meanwhile, the CR-V measures just over 4.6m in length. The upcoming Civic-based SUV is expected to measure around 4.5m in length, thus slotting perfectly in between the HR-V and the CR-V.
This new SUV is expected to be styled differently from the likes of the HR-V and CR-V, which are urban SUVs, possibly with a more rugged and adventurous theme for design. Styling cues are still expected to be similar to the current crop of Honda SUVs, possibly even drawing inspiration from the recently unveiled Honda RS concept. What is certain is that it will be longer than the HR-V, opening up more space in the cargo area and rear legroom.
This upcoming SUV is expected to share its platform with the new-gen Honda Civic, suggesting that the engine options will also be shared between the two models. That means the upcoming SUV could be powered by the conventional 182hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine mated to a CVT gearbox. This 1.5-litre petrol engine is also available in a hybrid guise with Honda’s e:HEV strong hybrid technology, which too could be offered on the upcoming SUV.
Honda recently also showcased another midsize SUV concept – the RS Concept – that will be positioned below the HR-V in the carmaker’s global line-up; it measures less than 4.3m in length.
Upcoming Honda launches in India
While this Civic-based midsize SUV is unlikely to make it to India, Honda has a different midsize SUV on cards for our market. There aren't many details available on this model, but, as mentioned by us before, this new SUV for India will share its underpinnings with the City sedan. It will be positioned in the market to take on the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. Honda is also gearing up for the launch of the City Hybrid in India, sometime in early 2022.
What are your thoughts on Honda's upcoming lineup of SUVs? Let us know in the comments below.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
Lenny D'sa
