Honda is back with the 2025 Elevate RS, a bold move aimed at reshaping the image of what a compact SUV can offer. While the original Elevate stood out for its practicality and balance, the RS variant takes things a step further—injecting a performance edge, enhanced styling, and a suite of intelligent tech. We got behind the wheel for an early drive to see if this upgraded package truly elevates the SUV experience, or if it’s just surface-level polish.
Honda Elevate RS 2025 First Drive
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Honda Elevate RS 2025 |
| Segment | Compact Urban SUV |
| Engine | 1.5L i-VTEC Petrol |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT / CVT |
| Power Output | 121 PS @ 6600 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4300 rpm |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 16.5 km/l (MT), 17.7 km/l (CVT) |
| Top Features | RS styling, 10.25” touchscreen, Honda Sensing ADAS |
| Price Range (Expected) | ₹13.5 – ₹16.5 lakh |
| Launch Timeline | Q4 2025 |
| Official Website | Visit Honda India |
Highlights:
-
Bolder design language with RS-exclusive elements
-
Recalibrated suspension and tighter steering
-
Enhanced infotainment and safety tech
-
Balanced performance for daily and weekend driving
First Impressions: Exterior and Presence
Honda’s RS badge is not just cosmetic this time. The Elevate RS makes an instant statement with a gloss-black grille, sportier bumper design, red highlights on the badging, and blacked-out 17-inch alloys. The dual-tone paint options, roof rails, and smoked rear lights add a distinctive edge that sets it apart from the standard Elevate.
It’s not just for show either. Small aerodynamic tweaks and a slightly lowered stance help give it a planted look without compromising ground clearance. It stands out in traffic without shouting.
Driving Performance: What’s Changed?
The Elevate RS retains Honda’s tried-and-tested 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine. On paper, the numbers remain unchanged—but the tuning and dynamics tell a different story on the road.
Throttle response feels crisper, especially in the manual version. Gearing is well spaced for both city runs and short highway sprints. The clutch is light, and gear shifts are fluid. For those who prefer convenience, the CVT version feels much improved, thanks to simulated gear shifts and improved throttle mapping.
The real differentiator is the suspension. Honda engineers have stiffened it slightly, improving body control in corners and high-speed stability. Steering feedback is more direct, giving the RS a sharper personality compared to its sibling.
Interior and Features: RS Identity Within
Inside, the Elevate RS continues its sport-forward narrative. Red stitching, contrast panels, and a flat-bottom steering wheel give the cabin a performance-inspired identity. The dashboard layout remains driver-focused, and material quality has seen minor upgrades, especially on touchpoints like door pads and the central console.
The 10.25-inch infotainment unit dominates the center stack, now running an updated interface that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There’s also a wireless phone charger, push-button start, automatic climate control, and rear AC vents—all standard on the RS.
Seats are well-bolstered and provide good support for long drives. Rear seat comfort remains one of the Elevate’s strongest suits, with ample space and a nearly flat floor.
Technology and Safety: Smarter, Safer
Honda’s ADAS suite, branded as Honda Sensing, is fully integrated into the RS. The system includes:
-
Collision Mitigation Braking System
-
Lane Keeping Assist
-
Adaptive Cruise Control
-
Road Departure Mitigation
-
Auto High Beam
Add to this the inclusion of a 360-degree camera, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring, and the RS becomes one of the most tech-loaded SUVs in its segment.
Connectivity features are strong, with voice command integration, OTA software update support, and customizable driver profiles.
Verdict: A Meaningful Upgrade?
The Honda Elevate RS 2025 is not a superficial update. It enhances the core strengths of the Elevate—space, efficiency, and usability—while layering on dynamic styling, performance upgrades, and better technology.
Is it the sportiest SUV in its segment? Not quite. But it offers a compelling middle ground: everyday comfort with just enough punch to keep things interesting. It may not redefine SUV excellence, but it certainly raises the standard for what a sportier, smarter compact SUV can be in 2025.
FAQ
What makes the RS variant different from the regular Honda Elevate?
The RS variant features unique styling, a sport-tuned suspension, flat-bottom steering, red interior accents, and an updated ADAS tech suite.
Is the Honda Elevate RS suitable for highway driving?
Yes, thanks to its stiffer suspension and improved steering feedback, the RS handles high-speed cruising and cornering better than the standard version.
Does it offer diesel or hybrid options?
No. The Elevate RS is available only with a 1.5L petrol engine in manual and CVT forms.
How does the ADAS system perform in Indian conditions?
It’s responsive and well-calibrated for Indian roads, offering real-time feedback and good lane-detection performance in most driving scenarios.
When can I buy the Honda Elevate RS 2025?
The SUV is expected to hit showrooms in India by the last quarter of 2025.
Click here to know more