Introduction
Honda has finally unveiled the prices for the Elevate. The Elevate is entering the extremely competitive mid-size SUV segment and will be directly competing against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor and the Citroen C3 Aircross. How does the Honda Elevate fare against its established mid-size SUV rivals on paper? Let’s find out.
For the comparison, we will focus exclusively on the base-level engines of each rival since the Elevate is equipped with only a single naturally aspirated petrol engine.
Dimensions
Regarding its dimensions, the Honda Elevate measures approximately 4,312mm in length, 1,790mm in width, and 1,650mm in height, with a wheelbase spanning 2,650mm. This puts it in a competitive position within its segment. Notably, the Honda Elevate boasts a 220mm ground clearance, the highest among its competitors.
In terms of its rivals, the Maruti Grand Vitara and the Toyota Hyryder are the longest in length, while the MG Astor stands out as the widest. On the other hand, the Citroen C3 Aircross is the tallest and features the longest wheelbase. It's worth noting that the Citroen C3 Aircross is unique among these vehicles, as it offers a 7-seater option, explaining its extended dimensions.
Engine Options
The Honda Elevate is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which can also be found in the City sedan. This engine produces 119bhp and 145Nm of torque. You can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 7-step CVT automatic transmission. Currently, there are no other engine choices available for the SUV in its various variants. It's worth noting that the absence of alternative powertrain options may limit the appeal of the Elevate to certain buyers. Honda has also confirmed that the Elevate will not feature the City's e:HEV strong-hybrid technology.
In comparison to the base engines of its competitors, the Elevate has a larger engine displacement and higher power output. However, it falls behind the C3 Aircross, Taigun, and Kushaq in terms of torque. Among these SUVs, most feature a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, and the majority offer a 6-speed manual transmission. The exceptions are the Grand Vitara, Hyryder, and Astor, which have different transmissions. Additionally, all of these SUVs provide automatic gearbox options except for the C3 Aircross.
Prices
The Honda Elevate has been launched at Rs 11 Lakh for the base SV MT variant. This price point puts the Elevate in the mix with all its rivals, which are all similarly priced except for the Citroen C3 Aircross. However, the top-spec ZX CVT variant is priced at Rs 16 Lakh, which makes it the most affordable top-spec variant amongst its rivals. This could be an important buying factor and could increase the appeal to buyers against its competitors in this ever so competitive mid-size SUV market.