Honda to Launch Five New Models in 2026 for Indian Market, Electric Cars to Hybrids

JAKARTA - Honda is preparing for one of its biggest transformation phases in India. After several years of relatively calm movement, the Japanese manufacturer is ready to appear aggressive by expanding its product range and introducing new technologies, ranging from electric vehicles to the latest hybrid and SUV models.

Currently, Honda's portfolio in India is still limited to five models, namely the second and third generation Amaze, Elevate, City, and City e:HEV. However, the map is soon changing, as reported by Cartoq, Tuesday, January 6.

Until 2030, Honda is projected to launch at least 10 new models, six of which have the potential to be present starting this year. If the plan goes smoothly, 2026 will be Honda's biggest revival momentum in the market.

The crucial step begins with the launch of Honda's first electric vehicle in India in 2026. This model is an electric SUV developed from the Honda Series 0 family, and production is scheduled to take place in the first half of 2026, before finally being marketed in India in the same year.

The electric SUV will use the latest dedicated EV platform and is expected to carry an 80-90 kWh NMC battery, with a thickness about six percent thinner than that of its rivals. The range is claimed to reach about 482 kilometers on a single charge.

Honda is also said to be preparing a rear-wheel drive option as well as all-wheel drive, with the latest ASIMO OS software-based vehicle operating system. However, because it will be imported in its entirety or CBU, the price tag is predicted to be at a premium level.

For the global market, the specifications include ADAS Level 3 technology, although it is still a question mark whether the feature will be fully available in India. In addition to pure electric, Honda also puts a big focus on hybrid technology.

In 2026, a hybrid version of the Elevate SUV is scheduled to launch. This model combines an Atkinson cycle 1.5-liter gasoline engine with a more efficient electric motor and a lighter battery pack.

The configuration is claimed to be more affordable and easy to maintain than the system used by City e:HEV. This approach is an important part of Honda's strategy, in which hybrid cars are positioned as a bridge of transition between conventional gasoline-powered vehicles and the era of full electric vehicles.

Not stopping there, Honda also plans to introduce the ZR-V SUV. This model relies on a 2.0-liter gasoline hybrid engine combined with an e-CVT transmission, producing around 180 hp and equipped with all-wheel drive.

Imported in CBU, this SUV is estimated to be priced at around 50 lakh before taxes and is more directed as an image product than volume. Another iconic model that is awaited is the Prelude Coupe, and is planned to be launched in the first half of 2026.

Prelude will return as a CBU with a 2.0-liter direct-injection Atkinson cycle gasoline engine, producing around 200 hp and 315 Nm of torque. Instead of a conventional transmission, this car uses Honda's S+ Shift system and shares a number of chassis components with global performance models such as the Civic Type R.

In the volume segment, Honda also prepares the all-new WR-V. This subcompact SUV will be Honda's gateway back into a very competitive class, the WR-V is said to use the Amaze platform, with a 1.2-liter i-VTEC gasoline engine and a choice of manual and automatic transmissions.

When launched, this model will face direct competition from popular names such as Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, Kia Sonet, and Hyundai Venue. Meanwhile, Honda City is also not spared from an update, this legendary sedan is scheduled to receive a second facelift as a transition solution before the new generation arrives in 2028.

The refresh includes revisions to the exterior design, cabin quality improvements, to the potential addition of modern features such as 360-degree cameras. With a combination of electric SUVs, hybrid models, iconic coupes, to volume products, 2026 is projected to be Honda's turning point in India.