Honda might launch the Civic sedan, diesel CRV and the HRV crossover in the Indian market. The company is currently evaluating these models for an India launch based on the feedback from the prospective buyers.
Honda Civic HRV diesel CRV might be launched in India
The Civic was taken off from the market a few years ago due to poor sales. The sedan was good, however, the sales of the D-segment as a whole was decreasing as buyers preferred SUVs over large sedans. Honda’s big SUV, the CRV, was always sold in the petrol avatar. Assembling the diesel motor for the CRV was a costly affair and the sales didn’t justify the investment. But it looks like, the company is now ready to take the plunge and sell the diesel CRV in India. The top honcho also talked about another vehicle, which is an SUV but didn’t divulge the name. We believe this SUV is the HRV which is currently being sold in other markets. If the HRV comes, it will be placed below the CRV and compete with the Hyundai Tucson and the upcoming Jeep Compass.
This latest launch strategy is the result of decreasing sales in the country. Honda has been a victim of wrong brand perception. The Indian market always perceived Honda to be a premium brand, however, cars like the Brio, Amaze and the Mobilio failed to attract buyers due to lack of features and premium feel, especially on the inside. So now, with the premium models, Honda wants to strike a balance between affordable and premium cars.
