In the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment in India, staying relevant means constantly evolving. Honda Cars India has taken a smart step with the 2025 Honda Elevate, introducing subtle but impactful updates that enhance its appeal without altering the core identity that fans love. With new interior themes, a revamped signature grille, and retained advanced safety and technology features, the renewed Elevate is set to maintain its spot in the hearts of urban SUV buyers. This article delves into what’s new, what remains iconic, and why the refreshed Elevate continues to be a compelling choice for the discerning Indian consumer.
Celebrating Subtle, Smart Changes
Rather than an overhaul, Honda has opted for strategic, well-judged tweaks that breathe new life into the Elevate’s cabin and street presence. The changes differ based on variant levels, giving customers tailored options to suit their personal style and budget.
Interior Upgrades for Elevated Comfort
The most notable enhancements occur inside the cabin. The top-tier ZX variant introduces a fresh black/ivory interior theme, first seen on the special edition Elevate Apex. This addition expands an already versatile palette, which includes black/tan and the all-black layout exclusive to the Elevate Black Edition. The black/ivory scheme elevates the cabin’s ambiance with a modern, sleek balance of contrast and warmth, appealing especially to buyers who desire a premium feel without overwhelming flamboyance.
For the lower-spec V and VX trims, Honda brings a welcome change by replacing beige fabric seat upholstery with black fabric — a practical choice for Indian conditions, offering reduced maintenance and a sportier look. The cabin further gets an elegant ivory finish on the dashboard and doorpads for contrast and sophistication. These cabin touches align with growing consumer expectations for both aesthetics and durability.
Additionally, the Crystal Black exterior color is now offered for the lower V and VX trims, enhancing customization possibilities for style-conscious buyers.
A New Look at the Front: The Bold Grille
The subtle facelift extends to the front fascia where the Elevate receives an optional “Alpha-Bold Plus Grille.” Characterized by chunkier vertical slats and enhanced chrome detailing, this grille option injects a dose of assertiveness into the SUV’s front profile. It promises to capture attention on Indian roads, blending sophistication with a stronger personality.
This grille is optional on the ZX and Black Edition but becomes standard in the Signature Black Edition, equipped in an all-black finish to complete the vehicle’s darker, more aggressive aesthetic. This optionality allows buyers to personalize their Elevate’s look according to their taste.
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Retaining Key Features That Matter
While style is important, functionality and safety are paramount. The refreshed Honda Elevate maintains a comprehensive and well-received feature set, ensuring it remains competitive in a packed segment:
- A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, placing connectivity at the fingertips.
- A 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster that balances modern design with practical readability.
- A single-pane sunroof, catering to those who enjoy an airy, open cabin feel.
- Automatic climate control for consistent cabin comfort in all seasons.
- A wireless phone charger, easing the frustration of cable management in busy commutes.
- A powerful 8-speaker sound system delivering quality in-car entertainment.
Safety and Advanced Assistance
Safety remains a strong focus for the Honda Elevate, with a comprehensive suite designed for confidence on urban streets and highways alike:
- Six airbags standard across variants.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) for stable braking.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) enhancing vehicle control in tricky conditions.
- Rear parking sensors aiding in tight urban parking.
- A set of Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), bringing semi-autonomous capabilities like adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation, enhancing driver confidence and safety.
This combination of active and passive safety tech positions the Elevate as one of the safer choices in its segment.
Powertrain and Performance
Maintaining its well-loved engine offering, the 2025 Honda Elevate continues with a single, yet versatile powerplant:
- A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing 121 PS of power and 145 Nm of torque.
- Transmission options include a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual and an efficient Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), catering to both driving enthusiasts and comfort-focused commuters.
This reliable powertrain delivers balanced performance for city traffic and occasional highway cruising, combining fuel efficiency with peppy response.
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Pricing and Market Context
With prices ranging from ₹11.91 lakh to ₹16.81 lakh (ex-showroom across India), the refreshed Elevate competes aggressively against other segment stalwarts, including:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- Volkswagen Taigun
- Skoda Kushaq
- The upcoming Maruti Escudo and Victoris
This lineup reflects a highly competitive market where style, features, and safety must blend seamlessly to sway buyer decisions.
Why Choose the Updated Honda Elevate in 2025?
The 2025 Honda Elevate strikes a balance few compact SUVs manage—offering aesthetic freshness without unnecessary complexity, retaining its strong safety credentials, and delivering functional tech that complements modern lifestyles. Its variant-wise upgrades and optional styling choices mean buyers get more choice and personalized appeal without paying a premium for features they might not value.
Furthermore, Honda’s reputation for reliability, backed by an extensive dealer and service network across India, ensures peace of mind long after purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the key interior updates in the 2025 Honda Elevate?
The ZX variant introduces a black/ivory interior theme, expanding options alongside black/tan and all-black. V and VX trims now have black fabric seats with an ivory dashboard and doorpad finish.
2. What is the “Alpha-Bold Plus Grille” offered with the updated Elevate?
It is an optional front grille with chunkier vertical slats and more chrome, available on ZX and Black Edition variants, standard on Signature Black Edition in all-black finish.
3. Does the updated Elevate have new safety features?
No new safety tech has been added, but it retains six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, rear parking sensors, and level-2 ADAS.
4. What engine options does the 2025 Honda Elevate offer?
It is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 121 PS and 145 Nm, with a choice of a 6-speed manual or CVT.
5. How does the 2025 Elevate compare with rivals on price?
Priced from ₹11.91 lakh to ₹16.81 lakh ex-showroom, it competes closely with models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara.
6. Are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available?
Yes, wireless connectivity comes standard with the 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen.
7. Can I get the updated grille on all Elevate models?
No, the bold new grille is optional on ZX and Black Edition trims and comes standard in the Signature Black Edition.
8. What colors are newly available on the lower trims?
The Crystal Black exterior color is now offered on V and VX variants.
Final Takeaway: Fresh Yet Familiar
The 2025 Honda Elevate updates demonstrate how thoughtful refinements can preserve a vehicle’s essence while keeping it fresh in a crowded segment. With enhanced style, choice in interiors and trims, and a competitive price, the Elevate is well positioned to continue its winning streak among India’s compact SUVs.
Its combination of safety, technology, and trusted performance means both current Honda fans and entry-level SUV buyers alike have every reason to consider the new Elevate as their next car.