Honda to develop Brio-based SUV

Japanese car maker, Honda is said to be evaluating the Brio platform for the production of a compact SUV for emerging markets. Honda has already used this platform for a compact sedan, the Amaze and the Mobilio MPV, which will be launched sometime in 2014.

While the platform has proved to be versatile, building an SUV on it will pose certain challenges. To accommodate an SUV-styled body, extensive modifications will have to be made to it. The wheel wells will have to be redesigned to take larger wheels. It is also unclear whether the SUV will be less than four metres in length or more.

The compact SUV segment in India is growing at a fast pace. The Ford EcoSport is leading the charge followed by the Renault Duster. No manufacturer can afford to ignore it.

Honda does have the Vezel SUV, which was displayed at the Tokyo Motor Show. However, bringing that to India does not seem economically viable. With the Rupee being devalued by a whopping 20 percent over the last two years, the Vezel, with its advanced features, would have to be priced at a premium and would pose no threat to its rivals. A Brio-based SUV would be inexpensive and put Honda in a better position to take on the competition. If Honda does go ahead and build it, the SUV can be expected in 2016.

Source: Autocar India