Small and cheap, is it also cheap enough to succeed here? (Photo: manufacturer's website)
Against the background of Honda Israel's supply shortage, high prices and limited range of models, the relative success of the Honda City stood out over the past year: a cheap sedan manufactured in India for third world countries. The City is not marketed in Europe or the United States, but managed to overcome the hurdles of the Vehicle Division of the Ministry of Transport and obtain import approval to Israel through parallel import channels. According to Ministry of Motor Vehicles records, 511 units were sold in Israel in the past year.
A new model unveiled by Honda in India yesterday could become a similar story if it replicates the rescue. It is based on the City's engine, gearbox and platform, and will be manufactured alongside it at its factory in Rajasthan. The Elevate is a family crossover, similar in size to the Kia Seltos, with the same tough design: 4.31 meters long, 1.79 meters high, 1.65 meters high, 2.65 meters wheelbase and ground clearance of 22 centimeters.
10.25-inch multimedia screen and 7-inch integrated dashboard (Photo: manufacturer's website)
The engine is the same atmospheric 1,500cc petrol unit with the City's 121 hp, with the same sequential automatic transmission. Drive is front-wheel drive.
Amenities include 17-inch wheels, a 10.25-inch multimedia screen, and a 7-inch screen integrated into the dashboard, compatible with Apple and Android devices. Unlike many first-world models, Honda India does not deny global warming and noted the Alveit in an air conditioner exit for the rear seat. The luggage compartment has a generous volume of 458 liters.
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458 liters in the luggage compartment (Photo: manufacturer's website)
Beyond the added height, the new crossover has a significant advantage over the sedan: active safety systems that include autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
Production will begin in the coming months, and if the City, without modern safety systems, managed to be sold in Israel and at a price approaching NIS 150,<>, there is no reason why the Alveit should not also reach the parallel import agencies next year.
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Tags
- Honda
- Crossover
- Jeepon
- Parallel import