Honda Elevate hybrid launch in 2026? — Change of plans for Honda

Honda—the Japanese carmaker who has been moving away from electric and increasing its presence in the hybrid segment—is said to be working on the Elevate hybrid. At the launch of the Elevate, Honda ruled out the hybrid powertrain for the SUV and committed to an all-electric Elevate for the future. However, a new media report suggests otherwise. Read the story to know more about the Honda Elevate hybrid launch possibility and other important details.

Honda Elevate hybrid in the works? 

The Honda Elevate is currently the only SUV in the brand’s rather slim portfolio, consistent with other models like the City and Amaze sedans. The Honda Elevate is only offered with a 1.5-litre normal petrol engine with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT. A new media report from Moneycontrol reveals that Honda is planning to introduce the Elevate hybrid in the Indian market, in order to combat its diminishing sales and reducing market share.

Also Read: Honda shifts focus back to hybrids — New generation Honda hybrids

Honda already offers a strong hybrid option, in the form of the City e:HEV hybrid, which currently accounts for over 12% of City sales. If the new report stands correct, the Elevate hybrid will make use of the City e:HEV’s powertrain and lock its horns with the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder—the only two affordable hybrid SUVs currently on sale in the Indian market.

Powering the Honda City hybrid is a 1.5-litre petrol engine that is mated to a couple of electric motors and a small Li-ion battery pack. Its combined system power and torque output stands at 126PS and 253Nm of torque. The engine transmits the power to the front wheels only via an e-CVT transmission. Thanks to its strong hybrid powertrain, its fuel efficiency stands at 27.26kmpl. The same powertrain is likely to be used in the upcoming Honda Elevate hybrid.

Honda Elevate hybrid launch timeline

As per the media report, Honda aims to launch the Elevate hybrid in the second half of the year 2026, benefiting from the festive season boom in sales. By the year 2026, we expect the affordable hybrid SUV segment to grow further, with new introductions in the form of the next-gen Kia Seltos hybrid, next-gen Hyundai Creta hybrid and the MG Astor replacement with a hybrid powertrain. With the hybrid SUV segment growing the market, it becomes crucial for Honda to launch the Elevate hybrid, until the all-electric Elevate-based EV hits the Indian market.

Also Read: Honda Elevate electric India launch in 2026 — Top things to know

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