Japanese carmaker Honda has officially confirmed plans to launch a new sub-4-metre SUV for the Indian market in 2028. This will mark the brand's return to one of the country's most competitive and fastest-growing vehicle segments. The upcoming SUV is expected to take on established rivals such as the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and more. The announcement was made during Honda's latest global business briefing, where the company also outlined its future strategy for the Indian market.
Honda's Re-entry into Compact SUV Space
Honda's re-entry into the compact SUV space will happen nearly five years after the discontinuation of the Honda WR-V in 2023. The WR-V was eventually phased out due to stricter emission regulations. Since then, the segment has grown significantly, with manufacturers continuously introducing new features, powertrain options, and technology upgrades.
Honda currently has limited presence in the mass-market passenger vehicle space, with the Amaze being its only sub-4-metre offering. The company said it will launch new models in two key categories by 2028: sub-four-metre vehicles and the mid-size segment. The company is also aiming to expand its customer base by targeting buyers upgrading from motorcycles to cars. Honda currently sells close to six million motorcycles annually in India and plans to increase its two-wheeler production capacity to around eight million units by 2028.
Honda's New Sub-4-Metre SUV: What to Expect
While Honda has not yet revealed detailed specifications of the upcoming SUV, the new model is expected to sit below the Honda Elevate in the brand's India lineup. Under the hood, Honda could use the familiar 1.2-litre NA petrol engine currently offered with the Honda Amaze. However, with rivals already offering turbo-petrol, CNG, and multiple transmission choices, Honda may also consider bringing its 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine to India. The engine is already available in some international markets with the Honda City and City Hatchback. Hybrid options cannot be ruled out by the time the SUV arrives in 2028.
Expanding Product Portfolio
Honda's strategy includes not only the sub-4-metre SUV but also other models in the mid-size segment. The company aims to strengthen its presence in India by leveraging its strong two-wheeler customer base. With a focus on innovation and meeting evolving customer preferences, Honda is expected to introduce advanced features and powertrain options in its upcoming vehicles.
Competitive Landscape
The compact SUV segment in India is fiercely competitive, with key players like Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, and others. Honda's new SUV will need to offer a compelling combination of design, performance, features, and pricing to carve out a niche. The company's experience in manufacturing reliable vehicles and its extensive dealer network could work in its favour.
As Honda gears up for the 2028 launch, automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers will be keenly watching for more details on specifications, design, and pricing. The company's commitment to the Indian market signals a renewed focus on capturing a larger share of the passenger vehicle segment.
