Hybrids have become the hottest buzz in town, as OEMs like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra & Tata are actively evaluating their hybrid strategies with the raising market demand. Honda Cars India, which already sells City e:HEV sedan, is also planning to expand its hybrid product lineup with three new SUVs including the ZR-V, Elevate and a three-row SUV.
The Honda ZR-V is currently under consideration for an India launch, while the Elevate hybrid is expected to arrive in the second half of 2026. Honda’s new flagship three-row hybrid SUV is slated to launch in 2027. Here’s a quick look at the key details of the upcoming Honda hybrid SUVs.
Honda ZR-V Hybrid
If the globally sold Honda ZR-V gets the green light for India, it’s expected to hit showrooms in late 2025 or early 2026. This hybrid SUV will be brought in as a fully imported unit, featuring a 2.0L petrol engine and two electric motors. Paired with an electric CVT gearbox, it delivers a combined power of around 180bhp.
As a premium offering, the ZR-V will come equipped with several advanced features such as a 9-inch touchscreen, Honda Connect navigation system, 12-speaker sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear AC vents, power adjustable driver seat with memory function, Honda Sensing (ADAS suite) and more.
Honda’s elevate hybrid
While there is no official word on Honda’s elevate hybrid launch, media reports suggest that Honda plans to introduce the model in the second half of 2026. If launched, the hybrid version of the midsize SUV might share its powertrain with the City e:HEV, which comes with a 1.5L Atkinson cycle iVTEC petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a battery pack.
No major cosmetic changes are expected, save for the ‘Hybrid’ badge. The cabin layout and features might also be identical to its petrol counterpart.
Honda 7-Seater Hybrid SUV
Honda’s new 7-seater hybrid SUV will be the brand’s first production model to be designed on the PF2 platform. In the company’s product lineup, it will sit above the Elevate and take on the upcoming Renault Duster, Hyundai and Kia’s upcoming three-row hybrid SUVs. The model is likely to enter production in October 2027. While it’s too early to confirm its powertrain details, the SUV is expected to be offered with a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol-hybrid setup.
