The Indian auto market is crowded, at present, with a number of compact Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) making inroads. Crucial reason for the same is availability of commodious features in these cars at a competitive price. In present day world, where fuel prices are increasing constantly and economy is unstable, compact SUVs provide an opulent charm to all genres of the society. All well-established auto makers are venturing on new projects in this segment and are creating innovative designs in a bid to lure prospective buyers. One fine example of such creativity is Honda Vezel, a unique concept brought alive by the Japanese auto major. Speculations are rife that the car will be showcased at Auto Expo 2014 and will be later available for sales. This compact SUV includes some distinctive features, which cartrade.com has brought to limelight.
Primarily, Honda Vezel is an anomalous blend of the company's exclusive technology and craftsmanship. This car is believed to be based on Honda Jazz's platform and interestingly, carries some attributes of CR-V as well. The company describes its design as a framework constituting flamboyance of a coupe, utility of a minivan and characteristics of an SUV. These statements looks astonishing and somehow intrigues a car fanatic to explore more about Honda Vezel.
This compact SUV was recently showcased at Tokyo Motor Show and auto enthusiasts from all over the world could not keep their hands away from capturing the especial moment. From all angles, Vezel's exteriors comprise a rigid looking body, with a sleek front grille similar to that of Honda CR-V. Roofline slopes down like a coupe, enhancing the sturdy outlooks of the car. From the rear, it looks more astonishing and features a protruding back holding elongated rear lamps. Wheels constitute multi-spoke alloys and the car is supposed to have a decent ground clearance to traverse on uneven turfs.
Honda's engineering is impeccable at interiors which, flaunt a multitude of technical features, lumped on the main panel. Finely stitched fabric upholstery is perfectly combined with snazzy dials of its consoles. Touch-screen infotainment system is believed to be provided for utmost amusement. Furthermore, steering mounted controls are also expected to be available on high-end models of this car. The 5-seat arrangement looks capacious to carry a full load of passengers and efficient amount of luggage space is also provided.
Under the hood, Honda Vezel is expected to be incorporated with company's standard 1.5-litre petrol engine, along with an option of a 1.5-litre “Earth Dream” diesel technology. Notably, this car is already being sold in the international markets and in its native country Japan, the car comes with a petrol and a hybrid version. It will be interesting to see if this compact SUV is brought to India with an option of electric motor. Along with, a 5-speed manual gearbox is basic in Honda Vezel with the option of a 5-speed automatic transmission available on higher models.
Honda has been presiding in the Indian auto market since late nineties and has incessantly grown up to attain a spot in the country's top 5 car manufacturers. It is renowned globally for its advanced technology and the same is lauded by auto aficionados. Experts are of a view that Honda Vezel will be priced competitively, in a bracket of Rs. 7 lakh - Rs. 12 lakh to keep up with the range of ongoing compact SUVs like Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster. This would ultimately lead to a stiff rivalry between the trio and the recent declaration of Ford to cease bookings for its compact SUV would open a window of opportunity for the other two. Renault Duster has already been encashing on this fortuity and it will be compelling to see how Honda Vezel utilises the same to inflate its company's market presence.
