2026 Honda Elevate Facelift Spied: Panoramic Sunroof, New Features And Hybrid On The Cards?

Honda is expected to launch the facelifted Honda Elevate later this year, and the updated SUV has now been spotted testing. Recently, Honda launched the facelifted Honda City, and some of its upgraded features could now make their way into the Elevate.

India's four-wheeler market is currently dominated by compact SUVs, and Honda has only one product in this highly competitive segment - the Honda Elevate. Despite being one of the better-driving SUVs in its category, sales have remained relatively slow due to pricing and value concerns.

The Japanese automaker is currently lagging behind competitors in terms of design, features, and overall package. With rivals offering more premium features and aggressive pricing, Honda needs to make the Elevate stronger to stay competitive.

2026 Honda Elevate Facelift Expectations

The Honda City facelift now got refreshed styling, better features, and improved cabin technology. Now, the Elevate is also expected to receive similar upgrades. The facelifted model could feature a redesigned front end with updated headlamps, bumpers, grille, and new alloy wheels. At the rear, it may get a revised tail lamp setup for a more modern and distinctive look.

Refreshed Cabin

The interior of the Elevate is already one of the strongest in its segment in terms of space and practicality. However, the facelift could bring a new 10-inch infotainment system similar to the updated City. The sound system could also become more premium with the addition of tweeters.

To improve passenger convenience, Honda may finally add a panoramic sunroof, which is now common among rivals. It could also offer sunroof and alloy wheels even on lower trims. Features like powered and ventilated seats, ambient lighting, and refreshed cabin materials are also expected.

Powertrain Expectations

Mechanically, the SUV is likely to continue with the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 121 PS and 145 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual and CVT gearbox. However, a hybrid version similar to the Honda City e:HEV would be a strong addition, especially as hybrid SUVs are becoming more popular in India.

More potential for Hybrid's

A hybrid powertrain could improve mileage and increase competition in the segment, which is currently dominated by Toyota and Maruti Suzuki. Honda already sells hybrid city which is a mid size sedan. It could bring the same e:HEV to the elevate and provide more engine options to the buyers.

Increase Price to Value Proposition

More importantly, Honda may also revise the trims and feature distribution, as many buyers feel the lower variants currently do not offer enough value for the price. The current Elevate starts at Rs 11.59 lakh (ex-showroom), and the facelifted version could be priced at around Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

The Honda Elevate rivals the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Tata Sierra, and Renault Duster.In the coming months, it may also face new competition from the upcoming Nissan Tekton and the next-generation Hyundai Creta.