Honda is preparing a new model called the Avancier, a crossover that could introduce the automaker’s latest design direction and hybrid technology. Based on recent spy photos and an official teaser, the upcoming vehicle appears to have a wagon-inspired design, raising the possibility that it could compete with the Subaru Outback.
Honda Brings Back the Avancier Name
Honda has a history of retaining established model names rather than frequently replacing them with entirely new ones. The Avancier, however, is a name that may be unfamiliar to many buyers outside Japan and China.
The original Avancier was a midsize station wagon based on the sixth-generation Japanese-market Honda Accord Wagon. It was sold exclusively in Japan between 1999 and 2003 before the name was later reused for a flagship crossover in China.
Honda has now confirmed the return of the Avancier name through a teaser released across its Asian social media platforms. The announcement follows earlier sightings of a crossover-style vehicle testing on Japanese roads.
Could the Honda Avancier Challenge the Subaru Outback?
Previous spy photos suggest the new Honda Avancier could look more like a raised station wagon than a traditional SUV. Its slightly increased ride height could position it as a potential competitor to the Subaru Outback.
The Subaru Outback has yet to make its Japanese premiere, creating a potential opportunity for Honda to attract current Outback owners who are not interested in the latest version.
The teaser also provides an early look at Honda’s developing design direction. Visible details include slim front and rear lighting, a sharply angled tailgate, and chrome exterior trim.
Although the preview reveals relatively little about the vehicle, the Avancier appears positioned to showcase design elements that could influence Honda models in the coming years.
The Rumored Honda Accord SUV Connection
The upcoming Avancier could also be connected to plans for a new Accord-based SUV. Reports have pointed to the possibility of an “Accord-type SUV,” with an Accord Crossover potentially arriving by mid-2029 alongside the next-generation Accord sedan.
The rumored SUV is expected to use Honda’s new hybrid system, and Honda has confirmed that the Avancier will feature the same technology. This adds to the possibility that the Avancier is the vehicle previously described.
There has also been discussion of a new all-wheel-drive system for Honda’s midsize models. The proposed technology would use an electric all-wheel-drive system, known as e-AWD, instead of a traditional mechanical driveshaft.
The combination of the new hybrid system and the reported e-AWD technology makes the Avancier a possible match for the previously described Accord SUV.
Could the Honda Avancier Reach the United States?
If the Avancier is indeed the vehicle connected to the upcoming Accord SUV, a U.S. launch could be possible. However, the Avancier name has limited recognition outside Japan and China.
Honda could therefore introduce the vehicle in the United States under an Accord-related name to make it more familiar to American buyers.
Honda has not announced an official launch date for the new Avancier. Further details about its design, positioning, and availability have yet to be revealed.
