Honda has always been known for making some of the most practical and reliable automobiles for the longest time. Even though they began their long and successful journey in India with petrol power, it took them almost 18 years to bring in their first diesel engine.
The 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine in the Amaze sedan is an important milestone for Honda Car India, as it will spawn a number of variants across their range and even lead to the introduction of new models altogether. One such model is something for a segment in which they’ve not had a presence in yet – that of MPVs.
Honda’s only offerings in the country so far have been hatchbacks, sedans and a crossover. But now, Honda is readying the Jade MPV for a possible launch in many South-East Asian markets, India included. While the concept, showcased at Auto Shanghai 2013, was said to be a China-only model, it looks very likely that it will become a popular addition in their portfolio for many other markets as well.
The Jade MPV Concept looks typically Honda with its Civic-ish front design together with generous proportions. It will in all probability be a 5+2 seater, competing with the likes of the Maruti-Suzuki Ertiga, Chevrolet Enjoy, and the long-standing segment favourite, the Toyota Innova. The Jade Concept is 4,645mm long, 1,775mm wide and 1,500mm with a wheelbase of 2,760mm, and Honda did mention that the production car would be almost identical to this concept. While the Chinese market gets the option of a 1.8-litre and a 2.0-litre petrol, the Indian market will definitely receive the 100-PS, 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel. It does seem to be just the product to complete their line-up in the country and with their reputation, it won’t have trouble finding its place in the growing MPV market.
