Honda Vezel to Enter a New Generation: What We Know About Its Design, Engines, and Debut Date

Honda’s SUV lineup includes a compact crossover that is popular both at home and abroad. This vehicle is called the Vezel. The company is preparing a new generation of the crossover, which is expected to retain its familiar body concept while undergoing major changes to its design, powertrain, and chassis.

The current-generation Honda Vezel went on sale in April 2021, and the model received a significant update in 2024. The facelift brought changes to the crossover’s design and equipment. Today, this SUV is also widely available in Russia. More than 20 listings for these crossovers can be found on the parallel-import market, with prices ranging from 1.6 million to 2.9 million rubles.

The next-generation Vezel is expected to retain the model’s key concept, with a substantial lower body and a coupe-like upper section. The changes will affect not only the exterior but also the powertrain and chassis. Honda also intends to preserve the vehicle’s practicality, and the centrally located fuel tanks could remain part of the layout in the next generation.

The biggest change is expected under the hood. Honda is developing a new e:HEV family with direct-injection engines and the Atkinson cycle. Compact vehicles will get a 1.5-liter engine, while midsize vehicles will receive a 2.0-liter engine. The Vezel will most likely use the compact version of the new hybrid system.

Another important development will be an electric all-wheel-drive system. Unlike a conventional setup with a driveshaft, it should control torque at the front and rear axles independently. For the Vezel, this could improve its driving and off-road capabilities without using the traditional mechanical connection between the axles.

The hybrid powertrain’s operating characteristics could also change. Honda plans to gradually introduce the S+ Shift system in next-generation e:HEV vehicles, starting with the Prelude. The technology does not use a conventional transmission, but it synchronizes engine speed with vehicle speed, creating the sensation of shifting gears. At the same time, the system synchronizes the engine sound during these virtual shifts.

For the Vezel, the addition of S+ Shift would mark a noticeable change in the vehicle’s character. Traditionally focused on fuel efficiency and ease of use, the model could offer a sportier driving experience through the new electronics and electric all-wheel-drive system.

Honda has already announced its transition to next-generation Vezel models starting in 2028, so the new generation is expected after that point.

Details about the next-generation Honda Fit compact car recently emerged. Its debut is expected around the end of 2027. The car is expected to grow in size and also get a hybrid system.