Today is an important day in the Indian automotive history. Renault will introduce the Duster SUV in the market. If this product is successful, it might just spell a doom for many beloved sedans of India.
Another popular Compact SUV - the Ford EcoSport - will join the race in early 2013. Many automotive manufacturers are developing compact SUVs to challenge the success of Duster, Yeti, Juke and the like.
And now you can add Honda to the list as well!
WHATCAR reports that the Japanese automaker is considering a Jazz based compact SUV to add to its future portfolio. The Jazz is a very versatile platform that already supports a hatchback, sedan (Honda City), a MPV and an EV. The Jazz based SUV will not be a hardcore off-roader like the Mahindra Thar but a front wheel drive soft roader for urban usage.
Similar rumors hit the web way back in 2008. At that point of time, Honda planned to plonk a 1.8-litre petrol engine. But considering many countries favor a diesel SUV, the plans may have changed. We could find the all new 1.6L i-DTEC engine with ‘Earth Dreams’ technology under the bonnet of this SUV.
WHATCAR has not reported on any ETA for the Compact SUV. However, Honda would like to keep the development cost and time low for the new SUV as its entry is already late. Basing it on the existing Jazz platform makes a lot of financial sense. Considering the Jazz is expected to be replaced entirely in the next 3 years, it is easy to believe that the compact SUV should be less than 3 years away.
[Source: Whatcar.com]
