Honda's EcoSport rivaling Urban SUV caught on video for the first time

05/09/2013 - 10:38 Honda,   Anjan Ravi

The Honda Urban SUV Concept was shown at this year's Detroit Auto Show in January. The production version of the Urban SUV is due to be launched at the Tokyo Motor Show in November this year. Thanks to YouTube user 'KlumpfussProduktion' however, we are able to watch a video of a camouflaged prototype being tested on Germany's Autobahn.

[Head to YouTube if you're unable to watch the video above.]

It appears as though the overall profile of the Urban SUV remains true to its concept. The roof and window line especially are nearly identical to the Detroit show car. Even the overall shape of the taillights bear some resemblance to the concept vehicle, though to gauge the exact transition from concept to production, we would like to see the car sans camouflage!

We can clearly see that the external handles for the rear door are placed on the window line (just like the concept and something similar to the Chevy Beat, Sonic).

Honda Urban SUV spied rear
Pistol-inspired taillights and sharp reflector elements on the bumper are clues leading to its identity.

Honda Urban SUV Concept rear fascia
Also check the crease lines of the prototype visible through the camouflage. It's the same as the concept!

The Urban SUV is built on the same platform as that of the 2014 Honda Jazz (which is being launched in Japan today). Rumored to be about 4.3 meters in length, the Urban SUV will sport a new name and would be sold in Asia, Europe, South America and even North America.

Honda Urban SUV spied front
The front fascia is unmistakably from the NAIAS concept.

Honda Urban SUV Concept at NAIAS 2013 (13)
Front three quarter view of the concept Urban SUV included for comparison.

Following the Brio MPV and the new Jazz, the Urban SUV could be launched in India late next year or in early 2015. Expect to see a 1.5-liter petrol and a 1.5-liter diesel engine powering the compact crossover.

Honda Urban SUV spied rear three quarter
Rear door handles seem to be a part of the window line itself, like in the concept.

Needless to say, the Urban SUV will compete with the likes of the Ford EcoSport, Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano and the upcoming Hyundai crossover.

Hat tip to keen-eyed reader Amit Sarangal!

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