Honda Elevate

Positives: The Honda Elevate features an impressively quiet and vibration-free (at idle) 1.5-iltre i-VTEC mill that makes 119bhp/145Nm. This naturally aspirated (NA) engine provides a predictable power delivery with strong low- and mid-range torque. There’s adequate power, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. As for the transmission options, it has a six-speed manual gearbox that offers smooth clutch travel and a satisfying gearshift action. There's a CVT option also in the fray. The manual gearbox effectively reduces the need for frequent downshifts on steep inclines, even in third gear. The steering provides good weight, offers adequate feedback, and returns to the original position after a U-turn. The well-judged suspension soaks up road irregularities, keeping the ride comfortable on uneven surfaces at low to medium speeds. The Elevate offers good overall stability and composure at triple-digit speeds. Negatives: One needs to rev the engine beyond about 4,000rpm to maximise performance for sporty driving or a quick overtake. The steering feels slightly less quick on winding roads, requiring more turn-in to maintain an engaging drive experience. Its occupants will experience some vertical motion at higher speeds over bumps before settling down eventually. Honda Elevate Key Specifications: Fuel Type Petrol Engine 1498 cc Transmission Manual & Automatic (CVT) Mileage (ARAI) 15.31 to 16.92 kmpl Power 119 bhp Torque 145 Nm Read more

Positives: It has a sunroof and a floating 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The well-bolstered seats provide ample cushioning and support for long drives. The Honda Elevate boasts superior ergonomics and outward visibility, making driving effortless. There’s ample rear legroom and headroom (scooped roof), large windows, and a comfortably reclined backrest, all enhancing second-row comfort. It has a bootspace of 458 litres, which can also be expanded through the 60:40 split-folding bench. Negatives: It misses high-end features like electric seat adjustments, 360-degree camera, and additional storage spaces for small items in the second row. The touchscreen is functional but lacks the advanced interfaces that are now seen on rival models. The absence of Honda’s ‘magic seats’ is seen as a miss since it could have enhanced interior versatility. Read more

Positives: It has an imposing front design with an upright grille, flat bonnet, and a distinctive squared-off SUV look. What’s nice is that the proportions are well-sorted, giving it a robust road presence without appearing oversized. The interior has a wooden insert on the dash and soft-touch materials that heighten the cabin’s upmarket feel. The single-tone colours are Phoenix Orange Pearl, Obsidian Blue Pearl, Radiant Red Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Golden Brown Metallic, Lunar Silver Metallic, and Meteoroid Gray Metallic. The three dual-tone shades are Phoenix Orange Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, and Radiant Red Metallic, all available with Crystal Black Pearl roofs. Negatives: The floating touchscreen design feels outdated in comparison to some competitors. Phone visibility on the charging tray is limited, and the storage slots inconveniently placed next to the handbrake are barely usable. The predominantly dark interior colour scheme might feel restrictive in terms of roominess, particularly in lower light. Read more

Positives: Honda Sensing ADAS offers features such as Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), adaptive cruise control, and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS). It is equipped with a multi-angle rear-view camera with guidelines, parking sensors, and an auto-dimming IRVM. Standard safety features include six airbags, stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, and brake assist. It gets a LaneWatch camera which effectively helps minimise blind spots and enhance safety. It has been tested by JNCAP authorities for a five-star crash test safety rating. Negatives: It has limited ADAS features such as the absence of rear cross-traffic alert. Read more