The Honda Elevate has arrived as a game-changer in India’s compact SUV market, offering a perfect mix of style, safety, and value. Priced from ₹11.91 lakh (ex-showroom), this five-seater SUV brings premium features like a sunroof and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) at a budget-friendly price. Launched in September 2023, the Elevate has quickly gained popularity, selling over 1 lakh units globally by February 2025. With its bold design, spacious cabin, and reliable performance, it’s a strong rival to the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara.
Stylish Design and Roomy Interiors
The Elevate stands out with its bold, boxy look that screams SUV. Its large gloss-black grille, sleek LED headlights, and 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels give it a commanding road presence. The 220mm ground clearance, the highest in its class, ensures it handles rough roads with ease. Inside, the cabin feels premium with soft-touch materials, a dual-tone dashboard, and plenty of legroom. The 458-litre boot space is segment-leading, perfect for family trips or daily errands. A single-pane sunroof adds a touch of luxury, though some rivals offer panoramic options.
Packed with Smart Features
Honda has loaded the Elevate with features that make every drive enjoyable. The 10.25-inch touchscreen supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, keeping you connected on the go. A 7-inch semi-digital driver’s display, wireless charger, and automatic climate control add convenience. The top variants include an 8-speaker sound system and ambient lighting for a premium feel. While it misses out on ventilated seats or a 360-degree camera, the Elevate’s feature list is strong for its price, especially in the VX and ZX trims.
Smooth and Reliable Performance
Under the hood, the Elevate is powered by a trusted 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, delivering 119 bhp and 145 Nm of torque. This engine, shared with the Honda City, is known for its smooth and fuel-efficient performance. You can choose between a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic, with the CVT offering a relaxed driving experience, especially in city traffic. The claimed mileage is 15.31 kmpl for the manual and 16.92 kmpl for the CVT. While it lacks the punch of turbo-petrol rivals, the Elevate’s refined engine is perfect for everyday driving.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L i-VTEC Petrol |
| Power | 119 bhp @ 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4300 RPM |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual / CVT |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 15.31 kmpl (MT), 16.92 kmpl (CVT) |
| Ground Clearance | 220 mm |
| Boot Space | 458 litres |
Top-Notch Safety with ADAS
Safety is a highlight of the Elevate, with features like six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist standard across all variants. The Honda Sensing ADAS suite, available in higher trims, includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and auto emergency braking. The Elevate, exported as the WR-V in Japan, earned a 5-star Japan NCAP rating, showcasing its strong build. However, the ADAS can feel slightly jerky in Indian traffic conditions, and there’s no tyre pressure monitoring system, which is a minor miss.
Competitive Pricing and Variants
Starting at ₹11.91 lakh, the Elevate is a value-for-money choice in the compact SUV segment. The base SV variant is well-equipped, while the VX and ZX trims add premium touches like the sunroof and ADAS. The new Apex Summer Edition, priced at ₹12.39 lakh, offers extra features at a lower cost. The Black Edition, starting at ₹15.51 lakh, brings a stylish all-black look. With discounts up to ₹76,100 in July 2025, the Elevate is an attractive buy. Its EMI starts at ₹26,237 for a ₹12.41 lakh loan, making it affordable for families.
The Honda Elevate delivers a practical, safe, and stylish SUV experience at a price that undercuts many rivals. While it lacks a diesel or hybrid option, its refined petrol engine, spacious interiors, and advanced safety features make it a smart pick for urban buyers. Whether you’re navigating city streets or planning a weekend getaway, the Elevate is a reliable companion that balances cost and comfort perfectly.