Honda has confirmed plans to introduce a new sub-4 metre SUV in India, signalling its re-entry into a segment it exited after discontinuing the Honda WR-V in 2023. The upcoming model is expected to arrive around 2028 and will serve as a key addition to the brand’s mass-market portfolio.
The Japanese carmaker has indicated that the new SUV will be tailored specifically for Indian buyers, with a stronger emphasis on cost competitiveness and practicality. Company leadership acknowledged that previous global product strategies may not have fully aligned with local expectations, suggesting a more market-focused approach going forward.
The new SUV will join the Honda Amaze as Honda’s second offering in the sub-4m category. This segment benefits from tax advantages in India and remains one of the most competitive, driven by high demand for compact, feature-rich vehicles.
Once launched, the SUV is likely to compete with established players such as the Tata Nexon and the Mahindra XUV 3XO. These models have set strong benchmarks in terms of features, safety and pricing, which Honda will need to match or exceed.
While detailed specifications are yet to be revealed, the SUV could share components with existing models. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine currently used in the Amaze is a potential candidate, although the possibility of electrified options cannot be ruled out at this stage.
Honda’s current lineup in India has limited representation in high-volume segments. The absence of products like the Brio, Jazz and WR-V has narrowed its reach, impacting overall sales performance. A new compact SUV could help the brand regain traction in a segment that continues to see strong growth.
The upcoming SUV is part of Honda’s larger roadmap to introduce 10 new models in India by 2030, with a significant focus on SUVs. Among these will likely be the all-electric Honda 0 Series SUV, expected to arrive in the latter half of the decade.
In the near term, Honda is also preparing to update its sedan lineup with a facelift of the Honda City, which is expected to launch soon.
