It was the year 2023 when Honda introduced the Elevate in India, and now, forward to 2026, the carmaker is preparing to give its midsize SUV a much-needed facelift. The Elevate has been part of Honda’s SUV line-up for the past few years and has taken on models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. The updated SUV is expected to make its debut on October 6, 2026, with changes to its design, cabin and equipment.
The new version has already been spotted during testing in camouflage. Honda has also updated the City earlier this year, and some of those changes could be seen on the Elevate facelift.
Expected Exterior Changes
The test vehicles have been seen with heavy camouflage, so the exact design is still not clear. However, the front and rear sections are expected to get most of the changes.
The possible exterior updates include:
- Grille: A redesigned front grille is expected.
- Headlamps: Revised LED lighting elements could be added.
- Bumpers: Both front and rear bumpers may get a new design.
- Alloy wheels: New 17-inch alloy wheel designs are likely.
- Colours: Honda could also add or revise the available colour options.
The changes should give the SUV a fresher look without making it completely different from the current model.
Cabin Could Get More Features
The Elevate already has a fairly clean cabin layout, but there are a few areas where Honda could add more equipment. The facelift may bring a new interior theme and different seat upholstery.
Some expected additions are:
- Ventilated seats: This feature could be borrowed from the updated City.
- 360-degree camera: It may become a factory-fitted feature instead of a dealer accessory.
- Powered co-driver seat: Could be added on higher variants.
- Dual-zone climate control: Another feature expected to be considered.
- Panoramic sunroof: Honda could add this feature to make the SUV more competitive.
- Rear sunblinds: These may also be offered on the updated model.
The dashboard design itself is not expected to see a major change. The current Elevate already gets physical controls, a touchscreen infotainment system and a practical cabin layout.
Engine and Gearbox
The mechanical package is expected to be carried forward with the facelift.
| Specification | Honda Elevate |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol |
| Power | 121hp |
| Torque | 145Nm |
| Manual | 6-speed |
| Automatic | 7-step CVT |
| Hybrid | Not confirmed |
There has also been talk about Honda bringing the City’s strong-hybrid setup to the Elevate. The City uses a 1.5-litre petrol hybrid system producing a combined 126hp and 253Nm. However, Honda has not confirmed a hybrid Elevate yet.
Expected Price and Rivals
The facelift is likely to cost more than the current SUV. The existing Elevate is priced from around Rs 11.81 lakh to Rs 16.36 lakh, ex-showroom, according to the information available.
The updated SUV will continue to compete in the crowded midsize SUV segment against:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Maruti Suzuki Victoris
- Toyota Hyryder
- Tata Sierra
- Renault Duster
- Nissan Tekton
Conclusion
The Elevate facelift looks like a useful update for Honda’s midsize SUV. New styling and extra features could make the SUV more attractive to buyers. The petrol engine is expected to continue, while the hybrid option is still uncertain. More details should be clear when Honda unveils the updated Elevate in October.