KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Honda Elevate hybrid spied testing overseas
- Ethanol based mill in testing
- To offer plenty of modern features including ADAS but is an Indian launch possible? Read details below
The Honda Elevate has been a late entrant to the compact SUV scene in India, but has managed to put forward an SUV that is robust on its fundamental, mechanics, and the feature set on offer. However, the buyers do miss out on a diesel mill that has somewhat remained the backbopne of this segment. And even if not, a strong hybrid has been there like that with the Maruti Grand Vitara, and others, but the Elevate missed out on both of these. Now, elating the masses, a hybrid Elevate has been spied testing in Brazil and does this means an imminent Indian launch? Let's explore some more details while reinstating some facts about the hybrid Elevate, but before that, make sure you are a part of our 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel, specifically curated for all the avid petrolheads to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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Honda Elevate Hybrid Spotted In Brazil
The Brazilian version of the Honda Elevate shares many exterior features with the India-spec model. Despite the heavy camouflage on the test mule, some differences are noticeable, such as the new alloy wheels. Other elements like the lighting, front grille, and overall shape remain largely unchanged. The rear profile of the Brazilian WR-V also closely resembles that of the India-spec Elevate. This makes it obvious that this is very much the Indian Elevate, albeit with some specific changes for the Brazilian market.
The rear profile of the test mule although under heavy wraps, reveal the Elevate chracteristic with a familiat ytail lamp assembly, tailgate structure and the lower bumper, reinforcing the nature of the vehicle. As for the interior of the Brazilian Honda Elevate, it will closely mirror that of the India-spec model. It will feature a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument panel. Additional highlights include a premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, and a wireless smartphone charger. Users can also expect conveniences like walk-away auto lock, auto-folding ORVMs, ambient lighting, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The 2025 Honda Elevate Hybrid will come equipped with the Honda Sensing ADAS package as well which includes a list of advanced safety features.
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Engine Details
As for the powertrain details, the mechanics generally differ between those offerd in Asian markets when compared to the other continents, basically owing to varied requirements and local mandates. The e:HEV system, commonly used in Asian markets, combines a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with two electric motors. The petrol engine produces 98 hp and 126 Nm of torque, while the electric motors add 108 hp and 253 Nm. Similar to the Civic Hybrid, the internal combustion engine (ICE) powers the electric motors and also recharges the batteries through regenerative braking. Hondas e:HEV vehicles can operate in electric-only mode for short durations. This is the one that the Indian markets could get, but is it coming to India?
India Launch Possible Soon?
While Honda gives an option for a strong hybrid with the City sedan, the same has been omitted from the Elevate line-up until now. Even though the Elevate hybrid has been spied testing internatonally, the brand has confirmed that it has to introduce this mechanical set-up here in India, at least for now. They have the Eleavte EV next in line, which aims to catch-up quick on the electric SUV trend in the country. However, I think that it could be introduced at a later date, considering the fact that hybrid SUVs are also doing quite well and gaining traction gradually.
Verdict
Even though the Electric Eleavte in earlier in the pipeline, I think the hybrid Eleavte makes more sense for the Indian market. Firstly, while the EV adoption is slowly picking up pace, it still has a lot to overcome to make it a success and worthwhile model to push. On the other hands, the hybrids are a success alreadyt as it counters the range anxiety and the sales of Grand Vitara and Innova Hycross hybrid are clear indicators for the same.
