Honda Vision XS-1 concept

Honda has taken the wraps off a new seven-seat crossover SUV concept at the Delhi motor show in India, dubbed the Honda Vision XS-1.

The sporty-looking people mover features three rows of seats and sliding side doors to increase access to the interior, and could be a rival for the Nissan Dualis/Qashqai seven-seater.

Boasting a progressive style that takes a few design cues from the CR-V and upcoming Vezel mini SUV, it also incorporates the company's increasingly expressive "Exciting H Design" philosophy.

Although Honda already has the Odyssey people mover, the new model will fill a hole in the company's vehicle range for a high-riding compact crossover model. The Japanese company says the Vision XS-1's purpose was to show its "creativity in designing compact vehicles whose market is growing all around the world".

Although a compact seven-seat crossover  for emerging markets has potential, Honda was on record saying "there is no mass-production plan for this model at the moment". However its Delhi debut hints that Honda is interested in developing affordable but stylish vehicles for emerging markets.

The interior of the Honda Vision XS-1 is simple but stylish, with the cockpit featuring a minimal amount of controls, albeit finished in a striking manner. The second and third row bench seats appear to be basic in construction and can be folded down for loading larger objects.

It adheres to Honda's M/M ethos – man maximum, machine minimum – which dictates that passenger vehicles should maximise space for occupants while minimising it for mechanical components.

No engine type was linked with the vehicle, but a compact and efficient three- or four-cylinder petrol engine would be a likely candidate.

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