Honda Avancier Review - The Premium Chinese Market SUV

The Honda Avancier is a mid-size SUV developed specifically for the Chinese market, first introduced in 2016 and refreshed in 2021. Positioned above the CR-V in Honda's Chinese lineup, the Avancier offers premium features and spacious accommodations tailored to Chinese consumer preferences.

Model Overview

The current second-generation Avancier (2021-present) is based on Honda's global platform but features unique styling and interior treatments for China. With its bold chrome grille and coupe-like roofline, the Avancier presents a more upscale appearance than typical Honda SUVs.

Technical Specifications

• Engines:
  • 1.5L turbocharged VTEC (193 hp)
  • 2.0L turbocharged VTEC (272 hp)
• Transmission: CVT (1.5L) or 9-speed automatic (2.0L)
• Length: 4,858 mm
• Width: 1,942 mm
• Height: 1,670 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,820 mm
• Seating: 5-seat configuration

Interior Features

The Avancier's cabin showcases Honda's attention to Chinese luxury preferences with premium materials throughout. Notable features include:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment with Baidu CarLife
• 12-speaker premium audio system
• Quilted leather seats with ventilation/massage functions
• Ambient lighting with multiple color options
• Panoramic sunroof
• Rear entertainment displays (executive package)

Driving Experience

The 2.0L turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration (0-100 km/h in ~7.5 seconds) while maintaining respectable fuel efficiency. The suspension tuning favors comfort over sportiness, making the Avancier ideal for China's highway-focused driving conditions. Noise insulation is particularly impressive, creating a serene cabin environment.

Safety and Technology

Honda's Sensing safety suite comes standard, including:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keeping assist
• Automatic emergency braking
• 360-degree camera system

Unique to the Chinese market, the Avancier also offers:

• Gesture-controlled sunroof
• Wireless phone charging with cooling fan
• AI-powered voice commands in Mandarin

Market Position

The Avancier competes directly with other China-specific premium SUVs like the Volkswagen Tayron and Toyota Crown Kluger. Its combination of Honda reliability, premium features, and localized design has made it one of the brand's most successful models in China, with over 500,000 units sold since its introduction.

Conclusion

The Honda Avancier represents how global automakers are creating region-specific vehicles to meet local preferences. While not available in other markets, the Avancier showcases Honda's ability to deliver premium experiences tailored to Chinese consumers' expectations for technology, comfort, and prestige in the mid-size SUV segment.