2026 Honda Elevate Facelift
Honda is quietly preparing one of its most important years in India. While many expected an all-new Elevate, 2026 will instead mark a strategic evolution—with a facelifted Elevate, a long-awaited strong hybrid SUV, and an all-new electric SUV arriving on a dedicated platform.
Rather than chasing volume with frequent model changes, Honda appears focused on efficiency, electrification, and long-term relevance.
2026 Honda Elevate Facelift: Subtle but Necessary
Launched in 2023, the Honda Elevate entered a fiercely competitive mid-size SUV segment dominated by feature-heavy rivals. By the second half of 2026, Honda is expected to roll out a mid-cycle facelift to keep the Elevate fresh.
The updates are expected to be evolutionary rather than dramatic. On the outside, buyers can expect a revised grille, updated front and rear bumpers, and refreshed LED headlamps and taillamps. These changes are likely aimed at giving the SUV a more premium and modern road presence without altering its core identity.
Inside, the cabin layout will largely remain unchanged, but Honda may introduce new interior trims, updated upholstery, and possibly a 360-degree camera system, addressing one of the Elevate’s most common feature-related criticisms.
Petrol Engine Continues, Hybrid Joins the Lineup
The existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine will continue unchanged, producing 121hp and 145Nm. It will remain available with a 6-speed manual and a 7-step CVT automatic, offering the smooth and reliable driving experience Honda is known for.
The bigger news, however, is the expected launch of the Honda Elevate e:HEV hybrid around the festive season of 2026.
This strong hybrid SUV is likely to use the same powertrain as the Honda City e:HEV, pairing a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with two electric motors. The combined output is expected to be 126hp and 253Nm, with fuel efficiency estimated at over 26 km/l—a major advantage in urban traffic conditions.
Honda’s All-New Electric SUV: A Clean-Slate EV
Beyond the Elevate, Honda has confirmed an all-new electric SUV for India, expected to launch on August 15, 2026. Crucially, this will not be an electric Elevate, but a brand-new model built on a dedicated EV platform.
The upcoming electric SUV is expected to feature a 40–50 kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed range of over 400 km, along with DC fast charging support. Production will take place at Honda’s Tapukara plant in Rajasthan, which will also serve as a global export hub.
The Bigger Picture
With a facelifted Elevate, a fuel-efficient hybrid, and a ground-up electric SUV, Honda is laying the foundation for a balanced and future-ready portfolio—one that blends reliability with electrification rather than rushing into change.
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