The Honda SUV RS Concept will scare off the Ativa and here are 25 photos to prove it
CY Foong · Jan 6, 2022 01:15 PM
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As the SUV market expands, it’s not surprising to see many carmakers trying to appeal to a more urban crowd with smaller models that suit their active lifestyle. Honda is one of them and the Honda SUV RS Concept previews its latest addition to its SUV line-up.
The SUV RS Concept made its global premiere at Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2021 (2021 GIIAS) a couple of months ago.
Sure, it might have the ‘concept’ name for now but this is essentially a preview of Honda’s upcoming subcompact crossover rival to the likes of the Perodua Ativa/Toyota Raize/Daihatsu Rocky as well as the Kia Sonet.
Even the overall design appears ready for production with no fancy camera wing mirrors, suicide doors, or oversized wheels. Recall Honda’s other notable concepts that debuted in Indonesia like the N7X and Small RS Concept which grew into the all-new BR-V and second-gen Brio respectively.
Like the SUV RS Concept, those concept cars were close to being production-ready and interestingly their launches were held mere months after the concepts were shown.
However, we suggest to hold your excitements (and cancelling your orders for the Ativa) first because Honda is still very much quiet on its littlest SUV. Indonesian media speculated that it would be launched in the second half of 2022.
Details like the powertrains, dimensions, and safety equipment are still being under wraps for now. Even the name is still a mystery – could it be called the WR-V which in turn replaces the GK Jazz-based crossover, or will it be called the ZR-V?
Either way, the SUV RS Concept which sits below the HR-V looks the part against its rivals. From the rugged trim pieces and body cladding to the faux roof rails, it has "active" written all over it.
Our colleagues from AutoFun Indonesia managed to take a closer look at this upcoming Ativa fighter and just on looks alone, we think the SUV RS Concept is a winner.
In front, the concept features a very sporty and futuristic Honda front grille that appears to be inspired by the FE Civic’s design as well as the all-new HR-V. Yet, kudos to the designers for giving it a very distinct look that is still recognisable as a Honda.
Going round the back, the SUV RS Concept gets a design that is similar to the all-new HR-V with a light bar that stretches across the tailgate. We dig the unique LED taillight clusters design but perhaps the production version might go for a conventional approach to keep costs low.
After all, Honda Indonesia has mentioned that this crossover will eventually be sold in the ASEAN region, perhaps including Malaysia, as well as developing markets like South America.
Over on the side, the SUV looks very much compact but knowing Honda, it wouldn’t be surprising if the interior is spacious. The big H is known for its man maximum, machine minimum (M/M) philosophy that emphasizes on passenger space as seen on the Honda City and the outgoing HR-V which are among the most spacious in their respective class.
Though the interior isn't revealed during the concept’s unveiling, we are expecting something modern and perhaps closely similar to the BR-V.
Speaking of the BR-V, the SUV RS Concept was originally teased back when the 7-seater crossover made its global debut back in October. Perhaps the Ativa rival could be built on the same platform as the BR-V but we’ll have to wait and see till launch day to get more details.
So, what do you think of the Honda SUV RS Concept? Is it convincing enough against the Perodua Ativa or will you still stick with the spiritual successor to the ever-loving Kembara?
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.