Honda earlier this year announced plans for importing some of its premium models to India as brand builders. The models include the ZR-V SUV and the Prelude two-seater sports coupe. Meanwhile, existing models like the Elevate mid-size SUV and the City sedan will receive facelifts in the upcoming year. Here are all the details on Honda's upcoming launches in 2026.
- Elevate facelift to get minor exterior, interior updates and feature additions.
- City facelift's exterior design could look similar to that of the Civic
- Prelude and ZR-V models to be a CBU import
2026 Honda Prelude
Expected to launch in H1 2026; likely to be priced at Rs 80 lakh
Honda is already finalising E20 compatibility and tyre specifications for the Prelude, which will be brought in as a CBU in limited numbers. Powering the svelte 2-door coupé is a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle direct-injection petrol engine that powers two electric motors for a combined output of 200hp and 315Nm. It does not feature a traditional transmission with the electric motors driving the wheels directly, with Honda’s S+ Shift system simulating gear shifts. The Prelude also uses a few chassis components from the Civic Type R, but is aimed at being more of a GT car.
Elevate facelift
Likely to arrive in H2 2026; expected to be priced between Rs 11 lakh and 17 lakh
The Honda Elevate is set to get a mild mid-cycle refresh to help it stay competitive in the midsize SUV segment. Expect minor updates to the front and rear styling, a refreshed interior, and possibly a few new features. The 1.5-litre NA petrol will continue.
City facelift
Likely to launch in H2 2026 with an expected price ranging from Rs 12 lakh to Rs 20 lakh
The current fifth-generation Honda City is set to get a second facelift as a stopgap before an all-new generation arrives in 2028. It hasn’t been spotted testing yet, but updates are expected to be limited to soft parts, bringing it in line with global models like the Civic. The cabin may get a subtle refresh, too, with new trim and upholstery, though the layout and features are expected to remain largely unchanged. The 1.5-litre NA petrol and e:HEV powertrains, along with their respective transmissions, will continue as is.
ZR-V Hybrid
Expected to arrive in Q4 2026 and priced between Rs 50 lakh to 60 lakh
The ZR-V will come to India as a CBU and will serve as a brand-building model along with the 0 Alpha electric SUV that’s set to arrive in 2027. Globally, it sits below the CR-V in Honda’s line-up and is positioned as a premium crossover. For context, the ZR-V is 256mm longer than the Elevate, although the wheelbase is almost identical. The interior is fairly conventional, with a freestanding 9-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a unique push-button gear selector being the highlights. Higher trims in the UK are well equipped with a 12-speaker Bose audio system, a powered tailgate and a panoramic sunroof. Expect it to be powered by a 184hp, 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain with AWD, mated to an e-CVT, and capable of running on electric propulsion alone.
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