Recognising almost 40% of new cars currently sold in South Africa fall into the compact or crossover SUV categories, Honda have launched the all new Honda Elevate as their contender in the segment.
Also interesting is the fact almost all the models in these segments are built in either India or China, and the Elevate carries the distinction of being the first Indian assembled Honda that is exported to Japan.
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The Indian market has an interesting tax bracket that favours cars with overall length of less than 4m. However, Honda have eschewed this restriction with the Honda Elevate measuring 4,3 m thus creating much appreciated interior and boot space advantages over many competitors.
While staying within the limitations on design determined by the body type, the front end is very distinctively Honda and features LED head and tail lights. Overall, I consider the design to be neat and effective.
There are two models in the current range both using the 1,5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that Honda has used in many other models. Powering the front wheels it delivers 89 kW and 145 Nm.
The entry spec Comfort model is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and the Elegance model is exclusively available with a CVT automatic. There were only Elegance models available to drive at the launch event.
On the road, remembering we were at coastal altitude in the Cape, the engine delivers very adequate power that allowed for a number of safe overtaking manoeuvres during the drive. Personally (although many people may differ) I have no issue with the CVT automatic transmission.
It was smooth and comfortable throughout and matched the style and demeanour of the car very much to my liking. CVT’s have come a long way in the last decade or so.
The ride is smooth and comfortable and generally very relaxed. Perfectly suited to the role required in this market segment.
Besides the fact the CVT is only available on Honda Elevate Elegance spec, this also adds six crash bags instead of the two on the Comfort, a larger 9-inch infotainment screen with wireless connectivity and charging plus artificial leather trim on the seats . Alloy wheels also form part of the Elegance spec.
Prices are R369 900 for the Comfort manual and R429 900 for the Elegance CVT which places it very well compared to the market segment.
Dare I end by saying that I predict the Elevate will definitely Lift Honda sales in SA.
Alan Rosenmeyer
Proudly CHANGECARS.
