Honda Cars India is preparing a major brand revival plan for 2026–2027. As part of its 10-model product roadmap, the company will import three important models — the Prelude hybrid coupe, ZR-V hybrid SUV and the fully electric Honda 0 SUV. These halo products are intended to rebuild Honda’s premium image and restore the engineering-driven identity the brand once enjoyed.
Why Honda Needs to Rebuild Its Brand Pyramid
For years, Honda’s India lineup followed a strong hierarchy: Accord and CR-V at the top, Civic in the middle and City as the entry point. But the shift toward mass-market models like the Amaze, Brio, WR-V and Jazz reversed this structure. Reduced investments, localisation priorities and the Greater Noida plant shutdown further diluted Honda’s premium appeal.
Honda now aims to reintroduce aspirational products that showcase global technology, hybrid leadership and advanced engineering. These CBUs will not be high-volume models — but their branding impact will be significant.
Prelude Hybrid Coupe – Emotional Halo Product
Launch: First half of 2026
The iconic Prelude is set to return as a stylish hybrid coupe producing 200hp from a 2.0-litre petrol-hybrid setup. With simulated gear shifts and sporty dynamics, it will act as an emotional flagship for enthusiasts.
Honda is currently testing E20 compatibility for India. Expected pricing around Rs 80 lakh means the Prelude will be a niche import but an important brand shaper.
ZR-V Hybrid – Honda’s Practical Premium Import
Launch: End-2026
The ZR-V hybrid will likely be the most relevant of the three imports. The crossover sits between the City and CR-V globally and uses a 180hp 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain with AWD and an e-CVT.
Priced around Rs 50–60 lakh, the ZR-V will highlight Honda’s hybrid expertise until locally produced strong-hybrids arrive later in the decade.
Honda 0 SUV – India’s Most Advanced Honda EV
Launch: Mid-2027
The all-electric Honda 0 SUV will be the technology flagship for the brand in India. Developed on the new 0 Series architecture, it features a minimalist design, next-gen software stack and high-efficiency battery systems.
Expected highlights:
- 80kWh–100kWh batteries
- ~500km real-world range
- Honda’s latest EV software and control systems
- Advanced battery management
With pricing above Rs 80 lakh, the 0 SUV will compete in the luxury EV segment.
Honda will locally assemble the smaller 0 Alpha SUV in India from 2027, while the larger 0 SUV will remain a CBU import.
A Long-Term Strategy, Not a One-Off
Honda’s premium revival depends on sustained execution. Limited CBU bursts won’t rebuild brand equity. But consistent halo imports — combined with future local hybrid and EV models — can restore Honda’s aspirational identity in India.
If implemented correctly, the Prelude, ZR-V and 0 SUV could mark the beginning of Honda’s strongest comeback in over a decade.
check out:Honda India To Import Prelude, ZR-V And 0 SUV As Brand Builders
