Honda’s lean product portfolio in India currently includes the Amaze (second and third generations), City, Elevate, and the City e:HEV hybrid. This streamlined lineup has kept Honda focused on reliable, efficient models in the sedan and compact SUV segments. However, change is on the horizon as the Japanese automaker ramps up its ambitions in one of the world’s fastest-growing auto markets.
Honda Cars India has outlined an aggressive roadmap to launch 10 new models by 2030, with a strong emphasis on SUVs—seven of the ten are expected to be in this category—and a significant push toward electrification. Hybrids, in particular, form a cornerstone of this strategy, building on the success of the City e:HEV while addressing India’s growing demand for fuel-efficient, lower-emission vehicles without fully committing to pure EVs in the mass market just yet.
Here’s a closer look at five Honda hybrids poised to arrive in the Indian market in the coming years, based on recent announcements, industry reports, and Honda’s global electrification plans adapted for local needs.
1. Honda Elevate Hybrid (Expected: Second Half of 2026)
The Elevate, Honda’s popular mid-size SUV, is set to become the next hybrid addition to the Indian lineup. Launching around the festive season in late 2026, it will feature Honda’s proven e:HEV strong hybrid system paired with a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine and electric motors. This setup, similar to the City e:HEV, promises excellent fuel efficiency (likely exceeding 25 km/l) and smooth performance in urban and highway conditions.
The Elevate Hybrid will be locally produced, helping keep costs competitive against rivals like the Toyota Hyryder and Maruti Grand Vitara hybrids. It could
2. Honda ZR-V Hybrid (Expected: Late 2026 or 2027)
Positioned as a premium, brand-building import (likely as a CBU), the ZR-V is a stylish compact crossover already available in global markets with strong hybrid powertrains. In India, it is expected to debut with a 2.0-litre hybrid system delivering around 180-200 hp, offering all-wheel-drive options in higher trims and refined driving dynamics.Priced in the Rs 50-60 lakh range, the ZR-V Hybrid will target aspirational buyers seeking something more upscale than the Elevate, while showcasing Honda’s advanced electrification tech. It could serve as a stepping stone for premium hybrid adoption in India.
3. New 7-Seater SUV Hybrid (Expected: 2027)
Honda is developing a new three-row SUV for India, likely positioned above the Elevate and aimed at family buyers in the growing large-SUV space. This model, potentially built on a localised platform, is expected to offer hybrid variants alongside petrol options.With seating for seven and a focus on practicality, it could compete with models like the Toyota Innova HyCross or upcoming Mahindra offerings. The hybrid powertrain—possibly an evolved 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre e:HEV setup—will emphasize efficiency for city commutes and long family trips.
4. Honda Prelude Hybrid (Expected: 2026-2027
The iconic Prelude nameplate is making a comeback as a sleek coupe-like model, expected to arrive in India as a CBU import in the first half of 2026 or early 2027. It will feature a potent 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain producing around 200 hp, blending sporty styling with efficient hybrid performance.Priced around Rs 80 lakh, the Prelude Hybrid will serve as an aspirational halo model, boosting Honda’s premium image and appealing to enthusiasts who want something distinctive beyond mainstream SUVs and sedans.
5. Next-Generation Honda City Hybrid (Expected: 2028)
The beloved City sedan will receive a full generational update around 2028, shifting to a new platform (possibly PF2) with an enhanced e:HEV hybrid system. This next-gen model is expected to incorporate design cues from Honda’s radical 0 Series concepts, improved efficiency, and advanced features.The City Hybrid will continue as a flagship offering in the mid-size sedan segment, with localised production ensuring competitive pricing. It will build directly on the current City e:HEV’s success while introducing fresher styling and better tech integration.
These five hybrids represent Honda’s strategic pivot toward a balanced portfolio of ICE, hybrid, and eventual EV models in India. With India identified as a key growth market alongside the US and Japan, the company is deepening localisation, strengthening supplier ties, and prioritising hybrids as a practical bridge to full electrification. The upcoming launches, starting with the Elevate Hybrid in 2026, signal Honda’s intent to reclaim momentum and capture a larger slice of the hybrid and SUV boom in the country.
