In an increasingly globalised auto industry, the Honda Elevate, manufactured in India, has earned a 5-star safety rating by Japan’s New Car Assessment Program (JNCAP). The Elevate, rebadged as the Honda WR-V in Japan, is a symbol of what efficient manufacturing and good old Japanese engineering can deliver when executed right.
Design
Visually, the Elevate opts for assertive styling without going overboard. The front wears a broad chrome grille, flanked by LED headlights and DRLs. The wheel arches are squared-off and muscular, complemented by roof rails and a clean rear profile. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and sits on a 2,650 mm wheelbase and is decently proportioned for a compact SUV. At 4,312 mm in length, it offers decent street presence while remaining city-friendly. For the Japanese market, Honda kept the design largely intact, save for a badge change and minor regional tweaks.
Powertrain
Under the hood, the Elevate houses the iconic 1.5-litre i-VTEC naturally aspirated petrol engine, producing 121 BHP and 145 Nm of torque. It’s a familiar setup with no turbo, no electrification, just a refined, reliable workhorse. Paired with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic, it offers a smooth driving experience. The Elevate is rated for 16.92 KM/L on the Japan WLTC cycle fuel efficiency test.
Interior
Inside, Honda plays it safe. Dual-tone black and brown upholstery, a leather-wrapped dashboard (on higher trims), and a 10.25-inch infotainment display form the cabin’s core. The Japanese model sees slight software changes to accommodate local norms, and an additional panoramic sunroof. It offers a spacious and well-made interior.
Safety
The Elevate has “elevated” Honda’s reputation for safety, both in the Indian market and in the Japanese market. The vehicle shares the same platform and chassis as its Indian counterpart, and hence it can be said with complete confidence that the Elevate likely shares the same 5-star safety rating. Six airbags, Honda’s ADAS suite (including collision mitigation and lane-keep assist), and a high-strength steel frame helped secure the 5-star JNCAP rating. For a product originating from a market where safety ratings are only just becoming a mainstream concern, this is a significant achievement.
Exports
Between April and June 2024, Honda exported 10,659 units of the Elevate to Japan, nearly double its domestic sales in the same period (5,435 units). It’s the first made-in-India Honda model to be sold in Japan.
