New Honda compact-SUV spotted testing again

Gajanan Kashikar Updated: March 23, 2023, 04:18 PM IST

Honda's upcoming Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Kia Seltos rival, a new compact SUV, has been spotted undergoing tests in India once again. This upcoming offering from the Japanese automaker is likely to be available in a choice of a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and 1.5-litre petrol strong hybrid powertrain options.

Upcoming Honda compact-SUV: Design
As seen in the spy pictures, although Honda's upcoming compact-SUV prototype is wearing a full-body camouflage, it appears to be near production-ready. The spy shots offer glimpses of what seems to be production-spec headlamps and taillamps. Not to mention, the 360deg camera is also on the cards.

In terms of design, the new compact SUV is likely to feature an upright front end with DRLs integrated into LED headlights, LED fog lamps, and probably a partly closed-off large grille. At the back, the SUV could feature somewhat J-shaped LED taillamps. Other design highlights may include door-mounted outside rear-view mirrors, roof rails, and a roof-integrated spoiler.

Upcoming Honda compact-SUV: Interior
While the details about Honda's new SUV are unavailable at the moment, it is expected to bear a large tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, ventilated seats, powered driver seats, and a wireless charging pad, among others.

Upcoming Honda compact-SUV: Features
Honda is likely to equip its upcoming compact SUV with a bunch of features, such as a panoramic sunroof, 360deg camera, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car features with smartwatch connectivity, USB Type-C ports, six airbags, hill ascent and descent control, ESP, brake assist, multi-collision brakes, drive modes, and so on. Since it offers ADAS in the 2023 City, the SUV may also get advanced driver assistance features.

Upcoming Honda compact SUV: Powertrain
It has been speculated that the upcoming Honda compact SUV could share its powertrain with the on-sale Honda City and City e:HEV. However, the official details about the engine specs are yet to be announced.

Upcoming Honda compact-SUV: Launch and Rivals
The automaker is likely to launch the new compact-SUV sometime later this year. Upon launch, Honda's new SUV will compete against the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, and MG Astor.