If rumors around the internet are to be believed in, Honda might be ready to bring in a new Mid-size SUV to the Indian market. Media reports have claimed that the Japanese automaker would bring in a new mid-size SUV in the market by 2023.
Honda has also confirmed as well as there have been news of the car coming in the market with the new Hybrid drivetrain that we have already seen on the Honda City e:HEV.
In terms of the drivetrain, the automaker might give the car the same engine as seen on the Honda City. The system in the Honda City uses two electric motors, a battery, and a 1.5-litre petrol engine.
Engine Specifications
The hybrid system in Honda City produces around 126PS and 253Nm of torque, which is comparable to a turbocharged petrol engine but far more efficient. So we can probably expect similar figures or Honda might bring in a new engine with the same hybrid tagged on to it, or might provide the Honda City’s engine with a different tune that would help in keeping the power to weight ratio of the SUV in line.
The upcoming SUV might resemble the N7X concept that was revealed by the Japanese automaker in Indonesia last year. Honda would also bring in all the safety as well as the creature comforts to compete with the current cut throat competition in the mid-size SUV segment.
The Competition in the market
The upcoming car can disrupt the competition in the segment in a profound manner if it ticks all the boxes in Indians’ lists. The segment as of now is being ruled by Korean automaker with cars such as the Hyundai Creta as well as the Kia Seltos and others. The Japanese automaker would need a perfect offering to gain a place of attention in the crowd.
Pricing
In terms of pricing, the automaker would have to bring the deal at a competitive price as the market is already jam-packed of brilliant cars in the segment. So, the car would have to be priced somewhere in between Rs 11 to 18 lakhs. The hybrid drivetrain might drive the price of the offering up but if the company still brings the vehicle in the price range, the brand might gain a chunk of the market for themselves.
Recently the company started the production of the new sedan at its Rajasthan facility. Mr. Takuya Tsumura, President & CEO, Honda Cars India Limited said, “It’s a delight to share that we are commencing the production of the City e:HEV from our Tapukara facility in the state of Rajasthan. The milestone also marks our commitment to bring advanced technologies for Indian customers and beginning of our electrification journey in India.”
He further went on to add, “As a company, we have always been aligned with the Government of India’s vision of Make in India as well as bringing environmentally friendly technologies. We have received an overwhelming response to the City e: HEV since its unveil earlier this month. The trust and passion exuberated by our customers highlight their preference for a strong hybrid from Honda. Honda City e:HEV is a very practical and stress free solution for our customers who are seeking electrified mobility.”
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