New Delhi: Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL) has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 1 lakh cumulative sales of its bold and stylish global SUV, the Honda Elevate. The model has seen remarkable success in both domestic and international markets, reinforcing Honda’s strong presence in the SUV segment.
Exclusively manufactured in India at HCIL’s Tapukara plant in Rajasthan, the Honda Elevate has registered 53,326 units in domestic sales, while 47,653 units have been exported to key international markets such as Japan, South Africa, Nepal, and Bhutan as of January 2025.
A Strong Contender in the SUV Market
Launched in September 2023, the Honda Elevate has swiftly positioned itself as a strong pillar of HCIL’s business, garnering over 20 prestigious automobile industry awards. Recognitions such as Car of the Year, Viewer’s Choice Car of the Year, and SUV of the Year from leading media houses underscore the vehicle’s widespread appeal. The Elevate’s growing customer base has contributed to its high recommendation rate, further strengthening its market reputation.
Expanding Global Reach
In a landmark achievement, the Honda Elevate became HCIL’s first-ever Made-in-India model to be exported to Japan, marking a significant step in the brand’s global expansion. This has resulted in a 65% growth in exports during FY 2023-24, followed by an impressive 92% surge in the ongoing financial year (April 2024 – January 2025).
Speaking on this achievement, Kunal Behl, Vice President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd., stated, “Reaching the 1 lakh sales milestone for the Elevate is a proud moment for us. It has not only solidified Honda’s standing in India’s SUV market but also expanded our strong export business. The Elevate’s bold design, comfortable in-cabin experience, fun-to-drive dynamics, and advanced safety package have resonated well with customers worldwide. Its export to Japan further highlights India’s manufacturing prowess and global competitiveness.”
Designed for the Modern Adventurer
Built on the concept of the ‘Urban Freestyler,’ the Honda Elevate caters to customers with active lifestyles and a global mindset. Combining cutting-edge aesthetics with functional versatility, it offers a thrilling yet comfortable driving experience. Honda’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) – Honda SENSING – ensures enhanced safety, making it a preferred choice for discerning customers.
In response to customer preferences, HCIL introduced the Apex and Black editions of the Elevate, both of which have been well received. Furthermore, the SUV’s compliance with E20 fuel (20% ethanol blend) highlights Honda’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly mobility solutions.
Key Consumer Trends & Preferences
- Top-Grade Preference: 53% of customers opt for the ZX variant, featuring Honda SENSING technology.
- Transmission Choice: 79% of buyers prefer the CVT variants across the V, VX, and ZX grades.
- First-Time Buyers: 22% of customers are first-time car buyers, indicating a shift toward advanced technology and premium SUVs.
- Additional Car Purchases: 43% of Elevate owners purchase it as a second or third vehicle in their household.
- Popular Color Choices:
- Platinum White Pearl – 35.1%
- Golden Brown Metallic – 19.9%
- Meteoroid Gray Metallic – 15.4%
- Obsidian Blue Pearl – 15.3%
- Others (Lunar Silver Metallic, Radiant Red Metallic, Phoenix Orange Pearl) – 14.3%
- Cumulative Distance Covered: Elevate owners in India have collectively driven over 32.6 crore kilometers.
Looking Ahead
The Honda Elevate continues to cement its reputation as a formidable competitor in the global SUV market. With its blend of robust design, advanced safety features, and sustainable technology, HCIL’s landmark achievement of 1 lakh cumulative sales is only the beginning of a promising journey ahead.
