In this in-depth conversation, Kunal Behl, Vice President – Marketing & Sales at Honda Cars India Ltd, speaks with Hormazd Sorabjee, Editor of Autocar India, about the shifts shaping India’s passenger vehicle market and Honda’s upcoming launches. Behl explains how sub-4m hatchbacks and sedans are shrinking, why SUVs above 4m are gaining traction, and how macro factors such as GST, GDP growth, low inflation and bank rate cuts could lift demand in the months ahead.
Sub-4-metre hatchbacks and sedans have seen a -4% CAGR over the past five years even as larger SUVs above 4 metres continue to rise. The overall industry outlook remains moderate at 3–4% growth. Honda’s Amaze continues to perform strongly, with 60% of sales coming from its top variant and 55% from CVT versions, while new entry-level models are under consideration.
Behl says that the Elevate faces headwinds in a crowded segment with 24 competing models and 38% petrol share, though its top variants still drive 65% of sales and Tier-1 CVT penetration stands at 77%. Looking ahead, Honda plans to launch its first EV SUV (above 4 metres) in FY27. Hybrid vehicles already account for 14% of Honda’s city sales and as much as 47% in Uttar Pradesh, helping the company meet CAFE norms alongside its upcoming EVs.
Watch the full interview to understand how Honda Cars India is positioning itself for the next phase of growth, balancing SUVs, hybrids and its first EV SUV.
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