Now that Honda and Nissan have formed an alliance, badge-engineered products will be spawned. The first of this bunch, is likely to be a Honda version of Nissan Patrol or Armada, a full size SUV. Also, probably even a luxury counterpart of it under the Acura badge to take on more premium rivals.
Honda Full Size SUV
The race for full-size SUVs is currently missing key players like Honda. The company is aware of the potential and status symbol of a full-size SUV and is eyeing this segment. The Honda-Nissan alliance will jointly develop new vehicles and powertrains including full size SUVs in the future.
In the meantime, we can expect a Honda full size SUV based on Nissan Patrol or Armada to fill in the gaps. Noriya Kaihara, Director & Exec VP at Honda Global, has hinted at the probability of short-term benefits of this new alliance, especially in the North American market, where they might launch a badge-engineered Nissan Armada.
Nissan Patrol, also called Armada in North American market, is a full size and burly SUV that has a cult following. The badge-engineered Honda full size SUV will take on the likes of GMC Yukon, Chevy Tahoe, Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia, among others. If there is an Acura version, it will rival luxury counterparts like Cadillac Escalade, Lexus LX and Lincoln Navigator.
What to expect?
Apart from these, there are other luxury full size SUVs like the Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7 and the likes. Where dimensions are concerned, Nissan Patrol or Armada measures around 5.3m in length, while Honda’s current largest SUV, the Pilot, measures under 5.1m in length.
When launched, it will be positioned above Pilot in Honda’s portfolio and it might be specific to North America. However, Honda might consider bringing it to other SUV markets like the Middle East, where Nissan Patrol is quite popular. In keeping with its image, Honda full size SUV might come with the more powerful 3.0L Twin Turbo V6, rather than other engine options offered with Patrol and Armada.
Honda might implement a unique design with a new sheet metal design, rather than just slapping a Honda badge in place of Nissan. When launched, it will be a unison of the best elements Nissan Patrol or Armada has to offer, but in Honda’s flavour. An Acura version will be premium still, with many luxurious trims and creature comforts.
