Honda already has a wide range of crossovers available worldwide. From the top of our heads, we can name the WR-V, the BR-V, HR-V, CR-V, Passport, and Pilot. Then there are the models sold specifically for the Chinese market, along with other country and region-specific models. It’s a dizzying array, for sure, but Honda isn’t showing signs of slowing down when it comes to building crossovers.
If you recall a few months ago, Honda released a dark, shadowy photo that hinted at another subcompact model. The teaser was released by Honda Cars India, and so far, we’ve ruled it out as being a different kind of WR-V or HR-V. Since then, Honda has not revealed any information, but a report from Autocar India sheds some light on the mystery crossover.
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According to the Indian publication, it carries the codename 3US and will by revealed on June 6, 2023. The publication also says it could be called the Elevate, a break from the usual ‘-RV’ naming convention Honda uses for most of its crossovers. A quick check at the World Intellectual Property Organization does support this claim. Honda filed for a trademark way back in March 30, 2021, and is now a registered name.
Based on spy photos, the crossover appears to be larger than the WR-V and slots in between the HR-V and BR-V. It is said to be based on Honda’s global subcompact car platform that underpins models such as the Jazz, City, BR-V, and HR-V. It might also use the familiar 1.5-liter i-VTEC that powers most of Honda’s subcompact models, and hybrid (e:HEV) versions are expected.
Once it’s released, Autocar India says the Honda crossover will be up against the likes of the all-new Suzuki Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, and Volkswagen T-Cross. Prices range from “Rs 12 lakh to 19 lakh”, which is around P810,000 to P1,300,000 at current exchange rates.
