The new 2UA platform can accommodate bigger wheels which is a must for SUVs and the upcoming compact design will be in line with bigger SUV models
The compact SUV segment is currently led by Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza and premium compact SUV segment by Hyundai Creta. Even though Honda has WR-V at the entry level end which is basically a re-designed Jazz and it is doing well but it is not able to take on segment leader Brezza and same for BR-V which is doing very low numbers against Creta.
According to a report on Autocar India, the Japanese manufacturer is developing two new SUV models for India. The sub four metre model will take on Vitara Brezza and the 4.3-metre model is going to compete against Creta. Both these models will be based on new 2UA platform which debuted with second generation Amaze.
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The new platform is developed for SUV, sedan and hatchback models. In India, we won’t get the next generation BR-V but other Asian markets will certainly get it as the model is popular in those markets.
The new 2AU platform can accommodate bigger wheels which is a must for SUVs. The upcoming compact SUV design will be inline with bigger SUV models as the front will be upright to give a muscular look. The new platform is also much cheaper than the current platform of WR-V and this will help Honda to price this model competitively. Eventually the compact SUV will replace WR-V in Honda’s lineup.
The premium compact SUV will also continue the SUV design theme. But the company hasn’t confirmed whether it will be a 5 seater or 7 seater. The next generation Creta is going to be a 7 seater so we can expect Honda to also move in same direction.
The engine lineup for compact SUV is 1.2 L i-VTEC and new 1.5 L i-DTEC engine which will meet Bharat VI emission norms. The new diesel engine will debut in the next generation of City. Honda can also use 1.6 L i-DTEC engine from Civic and CR-V. Honda will launch Creta rival in 2020 and the compact SUV in 2021.
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