Honda unveiled an urban SUV concept at the 2013 Detroit auto show today, offering a sneak peek at a new small SUV production car that's scheduled to come to the U.S. in 2014 after it launches in Japan. From what we can tell so far, the Nissan Juke had better start worrying.
Built on the Honda's Global Compact Series, the new SUV will share the same platform as the Honda Fit and the Honda City subcompact sedan sold outside of the U.S. Slotting below the Honda CR-V, the small SUV is nine inches shorter at 169.3 inches, but longer than the Fit by 7.7 inches. In terms of interior space, we expect the small SUV offer more cargo volume than the Fit's 20.6 cu-ft, however, Honda's flexible Magic Seat will help to maximize cargo capacity.
The concept has a muscular stance, and wears big flashy wheels that remind us of those on the Accord PHEV. The headlights look like the Acura RLX's jewel-like headlights, while hidden rear door handles mimic those found on the Nissan Juke, giving it a more coupe-like appearance. Given Honda's record of debuting production-like concepts, the final production version of the Urban SUV concept may not deviate far from the concept aside from the addition of ordinary headlights, smaller wheels, chunkier front door handles, and larger side mirrors.
Although we're not sure which engine will be housed under the hood, we do know it will utilize Honda's Earth Dreams technology. Inside, Honda says the small SUV will be equipped with a next-generation infotainment system and modern interior. When Honda's newest North American plant opens up in Celaya, Mexico, the small SUV will be built there alongside the Fit.
While it's still too early to predict pricing, expect it to slot anywhere between the $16,215 Fit and the $23,625 CR-V.