Key highlights
- The upcoming Elevate facelift appears to share several styling elements with Honda’s WR-V TrailSport HRC Concept.
- The similarities include the three-part LED lighting treatment, bonnet-mounted Honda badge and connected rear lighting.
- The updated Elevate will be revealed in India on October 6, with bookings already open.
Honda’s upcoming Elevate facelift could have a more interesting design story than a conventional mid-cycle update. Teaser images of the India-spec SUV suggest that Honda has taken inspiration from the WR-V TrailSport HRC Concept showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year.
The concept was part of Honda’s TrailSport HRC display, which brought together SUV designs influenced by Honda Racing Corporation’s off-road racing experience. Honda says these concepts were created around a more dynamic and adventure-focused design direction.
Three-section lighting and a new badge position
The strongest connection is visible at the front. The WR-V concept featured three horizontal illuminated sections between its slim headlamp signatures. The new Elevate teaser shows a remarkably similar three-section treatment.
The Honda badge also moves from the grille to the leading edge of the bonnet, another detail shared with the concept. The facelift gets a redesigned glossy-black grille, revised bumper detailing and new segmented daytime running lights.
There are similarities at the rear too. The concept featured two horizontal illuminated lines running across the tailgate towards the outer lamps. The Elevate facelift appears to adopt a similar connected lighting signature around the centrally mounted Honda logo. The concept itself had orange accents, chunky tyres and roof-mounted hardware, although there is no indication that these elements will make it to the production Elevate.
More features inside
Honda has also teased a refreshed cabin with lighter upholstery, revised dashboard and door-pad trim, visible stitching and amber ambient lighting.
The facelift is expected to add features such as ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, an electrically adjustable co-driver seat, rear sunblinds and a 360-degree camera. Honda has not confirmed every feature yet.
The existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is expected to continue, paired with manual and CVT options. Pre-bookings are already open for Rs 21,000, with India becoming the first market to launch the updated Elevate on October 6.
Also read: Honda Elevate facelift bookings open ahead of October 6 launch
