Honda has announced its plans to introduce a new sub-4 metre compact SUV in the Indian market by 2028, marking the company's return to the most popular segment after the WR-V was discontinued in 2023.
The announcement came during Honda's recent global financial results briefing, with the carmaker describing India as a priority market for future growth. It will develop the new model with Indian customer needs, preferences, and local market conditions in mind.
Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President and Representative Executive Officer at Honda, said,
“We will develop specifications that fully match the market conditions and customer needs in India.”
Also Read - 2026 Honda City Facelift Revealed Fully Before Debut
Powertrain details are unknown, but we expect it to get a 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, paired to a manual and CVT - seen on the Amaze. Given that most compact SUVs offer a turbo petrol option, Honda could introduce the same with this model, which could be power more cars in its lineup.
Honda continues to sell the WR-V in international markets such as Malaysia and Thailand. It remains to be seen whether the carmaker revives it in India, or comes up with a new model entirely.
Also Read - Punch Leads Top 5 Best Selling Compact SUVs in April 2026
Upon launch, it will compete with popular models like the Maruti Brezza, Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet.
The new compact SUV forms part of Honda's bigger strategy to launch 10 new models in India by 2030, with seven of them being SUVs. Along with this, the company also plans a new mid-size model, likely an electric SUV, around the same period.
Image Credits: Honda Malaysia (WR-V shown for representation only)
Join the Conversation
Trending
Best Diwali Offers On Most Popular Cars
Carmakers and dealers are rolling out festive deals. We pick the best Diwali 2026 offers on India's most popular cars and keep this list updated as new deals arrive.
Arjun Nair
October 8, 2026
Maruti Suzuki Nexa Navratri and Diwali Season Offers in October 2026
Maruti Suzuki’s October 2026 Nexa offers go up to Rs. 1.36 lakh on the Grand Vitara, with benefits also available on the Invicto, XL6, Jimny, e Vitara and Fronx.
Anmol Kumar
October 8, 2026
Every Dark/Black Edition Car On Sale From 8 to 35 Lakhs
Here is every dark and black edition currently on sale in India under Rs 35 lakhs, with prices, key styling changes and the features that set them apart.
Arjun Nair
October 8, 2026
Featured
Citroen C3 Review: Who Should Consider This Car?
A few days ago, I took the Citroen C3X out for a spin in the city and on the highways. I travelled long distances and checked its fuel efficiency, features, comfort, and other factors. Today, I’ll briefly share my overall experience with the C3X and will tell you whether you should consider it or not and which is the most value-for-money variant of the lot.
Vatsal Agrawal
May 19, 2026
Tesla Finally In India Officially. Why Now And What Does It Mean For EVs?
The much-anticipated 2025 Tesla Model Y has officially arrived in India, marking a pivotal moment for the nation's burgeoning electric vehicle market. Launched on July 15, 2025, the Model Y Juniper facelift offers cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and signature Tesla performance. Positioned as a premium electric SUV, its entry will intensify competition and reshape consumer expectations for EVs across the subcontinent.
Author
July 17, 2025
Here Are 10 Things The Harrier.EV Offers That The Mahindra XEV 9E Doesn't
The Harrier.EV is an incredible new offer from Tata. Its most popular competitor would be the Mahindra XEV 9E, priced similarly. With these two incredible offerings from home grown brands available, here is a list of everything the Harrier.EV offers that the XEV 9E doesn't.
Author
June 13, 2025
Write a comment
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!