Honda Cars India is making waves in the SUV sector with the introduction of its new mid-sized SUV, the Elevate, which signifies the re-entry of this prominent, Japanese automobile manufacturer into the SUV market. Known as Honda WR-V in Japan, the latest offering has been unveiled as the Honda Elevate Field Explorer Concept, which exudes an air of grit and strength with a plethora of additional features.
Details of Honda Elevate SUV Launch Revealed
In the densely populated compact SUV segment in India, the new Elevate competes with Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, <a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/toyota-has-recalled-close-to-1390-units-of-its-glanza-and-hyryder-models-in-india.html#gsc.tab=0">Toyota Hyryder</a>,<a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/unveiling-the-new-skoda-kushaq-elegance-edition-features-add-ons-and-pricing-details.html#gsc.tab=0">Skoda Kushaq,</a> <a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/volkswagen-teases-special-sound-editions-of-taigun-and-virtus.html#gsc.tab=0">Volkswagen Taigun,</a>, <a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/introducing-the-mg-astor-black-storm-edition-a-premium-ride-at-an-affordable-price.html">MG Astor,</a> , <a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/citroen-c3x-sedan-a-sneak-peek-into-the-upcoming-tata-curvv-rival.html#gsc.tab=0">Citroen C3 Aircross,</a> , and <a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/kia-seltos-gtx-s-x-line-s-variants-launched-to-alleviate-waiting-periods-amid-supply-constraints.html#gsc.tab=0">Kia Seltos,</a>.. With the WR-V (known as Elevate in India), the Field Explorer Concept pushes the design caliber up a notch.
It is so impressive that Honda is being encouraged to introduce it in India, to compete with the special editions of opposing compact SUVs, a trend initiated by <a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/september-2023-discount-offers-by-tata-motors-for-entire-domestic-lineup.html#gsc.tab=0">Tata Motors,</a>. The <a href="https://www.cartopnews.com/honda-unveils-new-gen-wr-v-the-rebadged-elevate-suv-in-japan.html#gsc.tab=0">Elevate SUV ,</a> new design perspective differentiates it from the standard version, enhancing its appeal with a stronger, more masculine look, which compact SUV consumers in India rave about.
The Field Explorer Concept by Honda comes with darkened headlights for a striking, undercover look, giving the taillights the same treatment. The standard Elevate's unpainted body cladding is transformed into a matte-black finish that exudes style. The grille, as well as the lower bumper, is painted black, with the traditional Honda logo replaced by classic HONDA lettering. This edition also comes with three unique pilot lamps, accompanied by fog lights that emit a distinct yellow light.
While the Japanese variant of Elevate (WR-V) lacks a sunroof, the Honda Elevate Field Explorer Concept sports a black roof pouring over into its rear spoiler. The chrome Elevate insignia on the front right fender is turned black in the Field Explorer Concept edition, appearing on both sides of the vehicle. The alloy wheels are seen in a versatile, glossy black finish, paired with high-profile all-weather tires.
One distinctive feature of the Elevate Field Explorer Concept is its practical roof rails complete with a luggage carrier, perfectly presented in a glossy black finish. The general design and aesthetics of the Field Explorer Concept provide a massive upgrade when juxtaposed against the standard Elevate.
Interior and Features
Details concerning the interior modifications in the Honda Elevate Field Explorer Concept have not been shared yet. However, the standard model is equipped with a five-seater design, a 10.2-inch touchscreen setup with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, a semi-digital instrument panel, ventilated seats with a massage function (as an accessory), wireless phone charging, and cruise control among other features.
The SUV comes packed with safety features including up to six airbags, a 360-degree camera, electronic stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that include lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning.
The Indian version of the Elevate, following Honda's discontinuation of its diesel engine range, uses a 1.5L NA petrol engine comparable to the one in the City sedan. This engine produces 121 horsepower and torque of 145 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and CVT options. By late 2024 or even in 2025, an Elevate EV might be launched, as revealed by Honda.
Design Highlights:
Key Features:
Variant Pricing: The Ebony Edition is approximately ₹15,000 more than the standard AX7 and AX7 L variants.
Safety Update:
Rear Seat Belt Reminders: All Mahindra XUV700 variants now come standard with rear seat belt reminders, enhancing passenger safety.
The XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition is now available for bookings, offering customers a unique blend of style and performance.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2025 CLA, introducing both electric and hybrid variants to its lineup. This move signifies a shift from developing separate electric models to integrating diverse powertrains within a single model range.
Electric Variant:
Porsche is working on an all-new SUV that will be available with both petrol and hybrid powertrains, expanding its portfolio beyond its existing electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings. This upcoming model is expected to provide customers with a blend of performance, efficiency, and adaptability to evolving market trends.
New Model Strategy and Market Positioning
Engine Specifications:
New Turbocharged Engine: The foundation of this hybrid system is a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the G20E. This engine is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid configurations.
Compact Design: Featuring a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction, the Toyota G20E engine is optimized for hybrid integration without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight.
Performance Expectations:
Power Output: In standard road versions, the G20E engine is anticipated to produce over 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. For motorsport applications, outputs exceeding 600 horsepower are projected.
Motorsport and Production Integration:
Versatile Application: The G20E engine is designed for both competitive motorsport and consumer vehicles, aligning with Toyota's strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions across its performance lineup.
Prototype Testing: The engine has been showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, indicating ongoing development and testing efforts.
Future Outlook:
By integrating hybrid technology into its GR sports cars, Toyota aims to balance high performance with environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards in various markets.
As development progresses, more detailed specifications and launch timelines for these hybrid-powered GR models are expected to be announced.
Aston Martin is set to introduce its latest flagship grand tourer, the 2025 Vanquish, to the Indian market on March 22.
This new model succeeds the DBS Superleggera and positions itself as a direct competitor to the Ferrari 12Cilindri.
Performance and Powertrain:
At the heart of the Vanquish lies a formidable 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 835 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the rear wheels, the Vanquish accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 345 km/h.
Design and Features:
Exterior:
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish is anticipated to be priced above ₹6 crore (ex-showroom) in India, excluding optional features. This pricing positions it as a premium offering in the luxury sports car segment.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Vanquish aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive landscape.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by submitting homologation applications for its Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles (EVs). This crucial step ensures that the vehicles comply with India's regulatory standards before their official launch.
Progress Towards Indian Market Entry:
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on specific EVs from the previous range of 70%–110% to 15%. This reduction aims to encourage foreign manufacturers like Tesla to enter the Indian market. However, to benefit from these concessions, manufacturers are required to commit to domestic production by investing at least $500 million within three years.
Implications for the Indian EV Market:
Tesla's potential entry is poised to invigorate the Indian EV sector, offering consumers advanced electric mobility options. The Model 3 and Model Y are expected to appeal to a broad audience, aligning with India's push towards sustainable transportation solutions.
As Tesla progresses through the homologation and certification stages, further details regarding the official launch dates and vehicle specifications tailored for the Indian market are anticipated.
Design and Dimensions:
Despite the heavy camouflage, the Tata Sierra's distinctive boxy silhouette is reminiscent of the original model. When observed next to the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra's larger dimensions are evident, suggesting a more spacious interior and commanding road presence. The test vehicle was equipped with alloy wheels, indicating a focus on both style and functionality.
Powertrain Options:
The upcoming Tata Sierra is expected to offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants:
ICE Version: Anticipated to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently powering the Harrier and Safari models, may be available, producing 168bhp and 350Nm of torque.
EV Version: Set to utilize Tata's Gen2 EV platform with the acti.ev architecture, the Sierra EV is expected to debut later this year, aligning with Tata's commitment to sustainable mobility.
Market Positioning:
The Tata Sierra aims to blend nostalgic design elements with modern features, targeting consumers seeking a robust and versatile SUV experience. Its availability in both ICE and EV formats reflects Tata Motors' strategy to cater to a diverse customer base in the evolving automotive landscape.
As testing progresses, more details regarding the Tata Sierra's specifications, features, and launch timeline are anticipated, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
