Electric cars are no longer the future. They’re here. Every brand is trying to push something new, but Honda seems to be playing a slightly different game. At CES 2025, the company pulled the cover off its new Honda 0 SUV. This isn’t just another EV with fancy lights. Honda calls it the start of a whole new series. A fresh identity.
The “0” name itself is interesting. Honda says it represents “zero compromise, zero emissions, zero limits.” Big claims. But then again, this is Honda—a brand with decades of trust, engines that run forever, and cars that people buy without overthinking. Now they want to make the same mark in electric. Let’s see what the 0 SUV really offers.
The Design – Not a Regular SUV
First look. The Honda 0 SUV doesn’t really look like any other SUV in the market. It has this bold futuristic face, almost like something out of a concept sketch. But Honda says this is not just a concept, it’s going into production by 2026.
- Front design: Sleek LED strip running across, sharp headlamp units tucked neatly.
- Side profile: Smooth flowing lines, unnecessary bulk, flush door handles. Feels aerodynamic, almost coupe-like.
- Rear: Wide LED bar tail lamps, minimal badging, very clean.
It’s like Honda decided—enough with the safe boring designs, let’s go futuristic. But not weird futuristic, it still has that road presence of an SUV.
And one more thing—Honda says the focus was on “thin, light, and wise” design philosophy. Basically, they wanted it sleek, efficient, and smart. No overdesign. No random fake vents. Just clean electric aesthetics.
Interiors – More Like a Lounge Than a Car
Step inside, and the Honda 0 SUV feels less like a car cabin and more like a futuristic lounge. The dashboard is simple, stretched wide, with a massive infotainment screen at the center.
- Steering wheel—rectangular design, feels like gaming console.
- Instrument cluster—minimal, digital, shows only essentials.
- Seats—Honda claims they’ve used lightweight but premium materials, with extra focus on comfort during long drives.
- Space—flat floor, so rear passengers get more legroom.
It’s not overloaded with buttons. In fact, some might find it too minimal. But Honda is banking on tech to do most of the work here.
Performance – Power With Options
Now to the heart. Or should I say motor. The Honda 0 SUV will be available in both single-motor and dual-motor AWD setups.
- Single motor version expected to deliver around 241 hp.
- Dual motor AWD could go up to 480 hp.
- 0–100 km/h might be around 5–6 seconds for AWD.
Battery range? Early reports suggest close to 300 miles (480 km) on a single charge. Not ground-breaking, but decent for the segment. Fast charging should also be there—80% in under 45 minutes expected.
So, it’s not just about being green. It will also move quick. And Honda’s engineers are known for tuning suspension that feels natural, not artificial like some EVs.
Level 3 Autonomy – The Big Deal
This is the real highlight. The Honda 0 SUV will come with Level 3 autonomous driving (at least in some markets).
What’s Level 3? Let me break it down.
- Level 1: Basic stuff like cruise control.
- Level 2: Advanced driver assist, the car steers but you keep hands ready.
- Level 3: The car actually drives itself in certain conditions. You can take your hands off, maybe even check your phone (though not nap).
Honda already tested this tech in Japan with its Legend sedan. Now they’re bringing it to a mass-market EV. This means the 0 SUV won’t just be about electric driving, it will also push self-driving comfort to a new level.
But—big but—Level 3 depends on regulations. In India? Probably won’t come in full swing initially. In US, Japan, Europe—yes, more likely.
Tech & Features – Smart Inside Out
Apart from autonomy, the Honda 0 SUV is loaded with smart features.
- “ASIMO OS” – Honda’s new AI-based system (named after their famous robot). It handles infotainment, navigation, voice control, even predictive driving.
- Over-the-air updates—so your car keeps getting better.
- AR HUD (Augmented Reality Head-Up Display)—projects navigation and warnings on windshield.
- Connected car tech—remote start, vehicle tracking, smartphone integration.
Basically, Honda wants this SUV to feel alive, like a smart companion, not just a car.
Safety – Honda’s Never Ignored This
EV or not, Honda has always been strict about safety. The 0 SUV is no different. Expected features:
- 8 airbags.
- Honda Sensing suite—collision mitigation braking, lane keeping, adaptive cruise, blind spot detection.
- 360-degree cameras, parking assist.
- High-strength body structure built for 5-star crash safety.
If it launches in India, a lot will depend on cost. But globally, it should tick all boxes for safety.
Price & Launch Timeline
Honda has said production for the 0 SUV will start in 2026. India launch—maybe later, 2027 or beyond.
Globally, expected pricing could start around $45,000 for base trim. In India, if it ever comes as a CKD/CBU import, it might cost upwards of ₹40–50 lakh.
So clearly, it’s not going to compete with Nexon EV or XUV400. It’s more like Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, or even entry-level Tesla Model Y rival.
Honda’s EV Strategy – Why 0 SUV Matters
Honda has been a bit late in the EV game. Toyota, Hyundai, Tesla, even Chinese brands like BYD have gone ahead. So this 0 Series is Honda’s attempt to reboot.
The 0 SUV is just the beginning. Alongside it, they also showed the 0 Saloon (a sleek electric sedan). Both will be first models under the new EV lineup.
If this works, Honda will expand to more body styles—maybe hatchbacks, smaller SUVs—by 2030.
For India, Honda already announced plans for an Elevate-based EV by 2026. So the 0 SUV may remain a premium showcase product here.
Rivals – Who It’s Up Against
The 0 SUV won’t have an easy ride. Competition in premium EVs is already heating up:
- Tesla Model Y – global benchmark.
- Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Kia EV6 – already selling strong in India.
- BYD Atto 3 / Seal – Chinese EVs that undercut rivals on price.
- Toyota bZ4X – another Japanese EV coming soon.
Honda will have to position the 0 SUV carefully. Price too high, buyers jump to Tesla. Too low, margins suffer.
Final Thoughts – Should You Be Excited?
So here’s the thing. The Honda 0 SUV is not just another EV. It’s Honda’s reset button. New design philosophy. New tech. And an actual attempt at semi-autonomous driving.
For Indian buyers—it may feel distant because of pricing and launch timeline. But globally, this could put Honda back in the EV conversation.
If you’re someone who wants futuristic design, smooth performance, long range, and a car that can literally drive itself in some cases—the Honda 0 SUV might be the one to wait for.
It’s bold. It’s different. And it’s Honda finally saying—yeah, we’re ready for the EV race.
