The Indian automobile market has seen a remarkable rise in the popularity of SUVs over the last decade. Recognizing this demand, Honda introduced the Honda Elevate, a mid-size SUV that aims to compete in one of the fastest-growing and most competitive segments. With its bold design, premium features, and reliable Honda engineering, the Elevate has quickly become a topic of discussion among car enthusiasts and families alike.
This blog takes a detailed look at the Honda Elevate, covering its design, performance, features, safety, and overall appeal in the Indian market.
Bold Exterior Design
The Honda Elevate has been crafted with modern urban customers in mind. It features a tall stance, wide grille, and muscular body lines that give it a confident road presence. The large LED headlamps, LED daytime running lights, and sleek tail lamps add a touch of sophistication.
Its high ground clearance and 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels enhance its SUV character, while the sculpted bonnet and sporty bumper give it a youthful appeal. Honda has clearly designed the Elevate to stand tall against competitors like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.
Spacious and Premium Interiors
Step inside the Elevate, and you’ll notice Honda’s focus on comfort and practicality. The cabin offers a spacious layout with premium materials that blend elegance with durability. The dashboard is neatly designed, featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system placed at the center, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless).
The SUV comes with a 7-inch digital driver’s display, automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery in higher variants, and a multi-functional steering wheel. The rear seat offers excellent legroom and a flat floor, making it comfortable for three passengers. With a 458-litre boot space, the Elevate is practical for families and long road trips.
Engine and Performance
The Honda Elevate is powered by the company’s proven 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine. This engine delivers around 121 PS of power and 145 Nm of torque, making it suitable for both city drives and highway cruising. Customers can choose between a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic gearbox.
While the Elevate does not yet come with a diesel or hybrid option, Honda is expected to introduce an electric version in the future as part of its global electrification plan. For now, the petrol engine balances performance and efficiency, with a mileage of around 15–16 km/l (manual) and 16–17 km/l (CVT) depending on driving conditions.
Ride and Handling
True to Honda’s DNA, the Elevate offers a smooth and comfortable ride quality. The suspension is tuned for Indian roads, absorbing potholes and bumps effectively. The steering feels light in city conditions but remains stable on highways.
Its high ground clearance (220 mm) makes it ideal for tackling rough patches and uneven terrains, which is a big plus for Indian buyers. The Elevate may not be the sportiest SUV in its segment, but it offers predictable and balanced handling, which appeals to family-oriented customers.
Safety Features
Honda has always emphasized safety, and the Elevate continues this tradition. It comes equipped with the Honda Sensing ADAS suite, which includes:
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Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
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Road Departure Mitigation System
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Lane Keep Assist System
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Adaptive Cruise Control
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Auto High-Beam Assist
In addition to ADAS, the Elevate also offers 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist, a reverse camera, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. With these features, the Elevate is designed to provide peace of mind to both drivers and passengers.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Modern car buyers expect connected technology, and Honda has ensured that the Elevate meets these expectations. The 10.25-inch touchscreen system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The SUV also offers Honda Connect, a connected car technology with more than 37 features including remote engine start, vehicle tracking, and emergency alerts.
Other convenience features include a wireless charger, push-button start/stop, keyless entry, and an electric sunroof in higher trims.
Competition in the Market
The Elevate enters a crowded segment dominated by models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and Volkswagen Taigun. While most competitors offer petrol, diesel, or hybrid options, Honda is betting on the reliability of its petrol engine and premium brand appeal.
What sets the Elevate apart is Honda’s strong reputation for reliability, spacious cabin, and safety features. It may not have the widest range of engine options, but its combination of practicality, comfort, and brand trust makes it a strong contender.
Price and Variants
Honda has priced the Elevate competitively, starting from around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom) and going up to ₹16 lakh for the top variants. This positions it well within the mid-size SUV segment, making it an attractive choice for customers who want a feature-rich SUV backed by Honda’s after-sales service.
Conclusion
The Honda Elevate marks a significant step for Honda in India, especially in the booming SUV category. With its bold design, premium interiors, advanced safety suite, and reliable petrol engine, it caters to the needs of modern Indian families. While it faces stiff competition from established players, the Elevate’s blend of comfort, safety, and Honda’s trusted brand image gives it a strong edge.
For buyers seeking a dependable, stylish, and feature-rich mid-size SUV, the Honda Elevate stands tall as a promising choice in 2025 and beyond.