Top 5 Reasons Why Honda Must Bring The Elevate Hybrid To India Now

Updated: Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 12:29 [IST]

The Honda Elevate is currently the only SUV offered by Honda in India, and it is now the right time for the brand to expand the lineup with hybrid technology. Since the SUV is available only with a naturally aspirated petrol engine, introducing a hybrid option would make it far more competitive against rivals, including the Renault Duster.

Top 5 Reasons To Bring the Elevate Hybrid SUV

Honda remains one of the most trusted brands in the Indian automotive market. However, its four-wheeler sales have not been very strong in recent years due to a limited product portfolio and fewer options for buyers. Many of its offerings now feel slightly outdated or less competitive in features and pricing. As an SUV, the Elevate has the potential to change this and drive growth for the brand with hybrid technology. Here are our reasons.

1. Emerging Hybrid Technology

Maruti Suzuki and Toyota currently dominate the hybrid segment, with the Grand Vitara and Urban Cruiser Hyryder witnessing strong demand. Honda, too, has proven hybrid technology, but it is currently limited to the City e: HEV.

There were expectations that the Elevate would debut with a hybrid option when it launched in India, especially after Honda discontinued diesel engines. However, that did not happen, and even now, the brand appears to be delaying its hybrid plans.

2. High Demand for Hybrid

The hybrid market in India is steadily growing, as more buyers are beginning to prefer hybrids over fully electric vehicles. Even the newly introduced Renault Duster has made this shift by offering both mild-hybrid and strong-hybrid powertrains.

Notably, the strong-hybrid variant has already seen overwhelming demand, with bookings effectively sold out ahead of its official launch during Diwali 2026. This clearly highlights rising consumer interest in hybrid technology. Honda should act quickly, or it risks falling behind once again, as it did with its delayed entry into the SUV segment.

3. Hybrid Improves Efficiency

For a relatively large SUV like the Elevate, fuel efficiency has been a key concern. A hybrid powertrain can effectively address this issue by combining an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, significantly improving overall fuel efficiency and extending driving range.

Some reports claim Honda Elevate delivers 15-17 kmpl, while the Grand Vitara and Hyryder return 25-28 kmpl. Hybrids are particularly effective in city driving conditions, where stop-and-go traffic allows better utilization of electric power, resulting in lower fuel consumption.

4. Expands Powertrain Options

The Honda Elevate is currently offered with a single 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 121 PS and 148 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT gearbox. While this engine is reliable and shared with the Honda City, it limits performance.

Introducing a hybrid variant would not only enhance performance but also provide a more refined and efficient driving experience. More importantly, it would expand the powertrain lineup, giving customers the flexibility to choose between a conventional petrol engine and a more advanced hybrid option.

5. Stay Ahead of the Competition

The compact SUV segment is currently dominated by the Hyundai Creta, which offers multiple engine options, including petrol and diesel. In contrast, hybrid technology is still limited to a few players, making it an untapped category. Since Honda already has a proven hybrid technology, introducing it in the Elevate could position the brand ahead of competitors and help capture a larger share of the growing hybrid market.