- Likely to be launched within the next 12 months
- Could get a hybrid version
The Honda City facelift or new Honda City as they are calling it will be launched in India on 22 May, and with it will come some major updates that the car needs to go up against some refreshed competition. Spy images reveal new things like a 360-degree camera, new alloy wheels, a new lights package and a new face. These updates have given us an idea of what we can expect in the upcoming Elevate facelift.
Updated design elements
The Elevate will move to the Japanese automaker’s latest design language, which can be seen on cars like the Pilot, CR-V and ZR-V. Characteristics include visibly larger overhangs, blacked out grille, black wheels, slimmer headlamps and connected tail lamps.
New Features
This list is expected to include a bigger infotainment screen, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera and an updated instrument cluster. Honda is also expected to update the ADAS package and include features like rear cross-traffic alert and a more detailed automatic emergency braking package. Given the Elevate’s positioning above the City, we also expect to get a powered driver’s seat and ambient lighting as a part of the deal.
Time for Hybrid Power
When Honda launched the Elevate in 2023, it hinted at an Elevate-sized EV that would come along in 2027. But with Honda backtracking on its EV plans and now India getting its version of the 0 Alpha EV, a hybrid Elevate will open new doors for Honda. It will make use of the same hybrid 1.5-litre engine found in the City e:HEV and will go up against cars like the Maruti Grand Vitara, Maruti Victoris and future hybrid versions of the Kia Seltos and Kia Carens. This is a new front opening up in this part of the market, and Honda would be jumping into this pool at just the right time!
