Japanese Honda Plans to Export Its Largest SUV Models from the U.S. Overseas

Honda is rethinking its product strategy and considering exporting its larger models to right-hand-drive markets, including Australia.

Honda Australia CEO Jay Joseph said electrification is making global vehicle adaptation easier. Modular platforms allow engineers to design right-hand-drive versions with fewer constraints than traditional large gasoline powertrains. Currently, Honda Australia sells only the HR-V (marketed locally as the ZR-V) and the CR-V, and adding larger SUVs could strengthen the brand’s position against rivals like the Ford Everest and popular pickups such as the Ranger.

If Honda moves forward with exporting U.S.-market models, production would most likely remain at existing American plants rather than require new factories. Ford, Ram, and General Motors already follow a similar approach, exporting right-hand-drive versions of their vehicles from U.S. facilities.

That said, a shift to right-hand-drive configurations would only be feasible with all-new generations. As a result, any major changes are unlikely before the end of the decade, when new large-vehicle platforms from Honda are expected to debut — likely gasoline or hybrid models rather than fully electric ones.

If Honda ultimately pursues a more globalized lineup, some overseas models could also return to the U.S. market. Possibilities include the “international” version of the HR-V or even a revived Honda Fit.