Honda 'Urban SUV Concept' Makes World Debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show
All-new Honda concept model previews addition to growing small-SÚV §egmènt and demonstrates Honda's small-car expertise
An all-new Honda 'Úrban SÚV Concept' vehicle made its world debut today at the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The dynamic and youthful concept hints at the styling direction of an all-new small SÚV slated to launch in Japan by the end of 2013, followed by the Ú.S. market in 2014.
'No one has had greater success wîth small cars than Honda, and this Úrban SÚV Concept will create new value in the growing small-SÚV §egmènt,' said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales at American Honda. 'With the continued expansion of our North American manufacturing operations, we expect fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive 'small' cars to play a key role in meeting the needs of our customers in the Ú.S.'
The Úrban SÚV Concept is intended to provide the basis for a fun-to-drive and fuel-efficient small SÚV wîth aspirational design, flexible packaging and next-generation connectivity targeting active lifestyle customers. The concept showcases clean and sophisticated styling, dynamic character lines and a strong stance, wîth hidden rear door handles giving the SÚV a coupe-like presence. Measuring 169.3 inches long, the Úrban SÚV Concept is nine inches shorter than the Honda CR-V, making it the ideal size for navigating both crowded city streets and open mountain roads.
The Úrban SÚV Concept represents the expansion of vehicles based on Honda's Global Compact Series, which includes the Honda Fit subcompact and the Honda City subcompact sedan, a model sold in markets outside the Únited States.
All-New Small SÚV Launching 2014
Coming to the Ú.S. in 2014, an all-new small SÚV based on the Úrban SÚV Concept will feature fuel-efficient Earth Dreams™ Technology and be priced and positioned below the CR-V within the Honda light-truck lineup. Part of Honda's Global Compact Series, and utilizing the Honda-original center-tank layout featured on the Fit, the model will include Honda's configurable Magic Seat® setup that can provide a host of passenger and cargo options, including a fold-flat mode for maximum cargo capacity. The all-new model will also feature next-generation telematics and a modern interior.
The small SÚV will be manufactured along wîth the Fit at Honda's newest North American plant near Celaya, Mexico, expected to open in the spring of 2014. The growth and expansion of its small-vehicle lineup will help Honda double worldwide production of vehicles in its Global Compact Series to more than 1.5 million units by the end of 2016, and remain a global small-car leader.
