The first generation Honda City was introduced in 1996, quickly responding to the growing needs for automobiles in Asian markets associated with economic growth in the region. The Honda City which is produced in seven countries and enjoyed by customers in 39 nations around the world has been given a new lease of life. A product of Honda Siel Cars India Ltd, the third-generation City is a hot favourite as the luxurious sedan offers a lot to its potential buyers - new engine, new design, more grandeur, increased cabin space, and of course, top-notch performance. Honda City has been regarded a prestigious brand in India since its launch in 1998. It maintains a significant market share in its class and the latest model has taken it popularity to a much higher level.
Exterior
The front is definitely inspired by the likes of the European Honda Civic and the Honda FCX Clarity. The headlamps feature reflector lense instead of the more expensive projector type, which is expected at this price range. The Rear of new city looks like a mini-ish BMW 3-series with aggresive looking bumper and tail lights. The refined aero-dynamics of Honda City heighten its presence wherever it goes. The new car is longer, wider and sturdier as compared to its previous model. The height of the new City has been lowered by 15 mm, with ground clearance remaining the same. The sleeker and sturdier body shape is enticing.
Interior
Everything is laid out nicely, and there is a quality feel to all the controls. The plastics are hard, but in a solid and chunky sort of way. The steering wheel is now adjustable for reach as well as height, which is a really excellent feature for this segment of the market. Another nice touch is the iPod compatible USB connector. Although the Jazz already has this, the City has a very nicely integrated system. The display section of the audio system is hinged, opening to reveal a short USB cable which will accept your iPod cable.
There is a little felt-lined compartment for your iPod. Once installed, you can control your iPod via the car's audio system. The City doesn't have a CD player, so you need an iPod, or other compatible MP3 player to take your songs with you. Still, it's nicely done.
Engine
The brand new edition of Honda City is powered by highly developed 1.5L, 4 cylinder new generation i-VTEC engine, which assures class-leading output and excellent fuel economy. The engine churns out a power of 118 PS @ 6600 rpm and a maximum torque of 146 Nm @ 4800 rpm. The engine is E10 compliant and has Euro IV emission levels, which reduce the negative impact on environment.
Ride and Handling
In the automatic model of city the unique Paddle Shift gear option allows you to switch gears without using the clutch pedal. The 5 gear automatic trasmission allows you to change gear ratios automatically-freeing you from having to shift gears manually. The right paddle is for shifting up while the left paddle is for shifting down, which is the same as for an F1 machine.
In D-range mode, the driver can shift up and down by using the paddles, while automatically returning to normal AT driving mode when a sensor determines the car is cruising. On the other hand, in S-range, the mode does not revert automatically to AT driving mode, which allows the driver to enjoy a manual transmission-like driving feel.
Intake valve timing and valve lift settings switch to meet both low- and high-speed driving requirements. Optimized valve overlap in the low-, mid- and high-speed ranges enhances intake and exhaust efficiency for excellent performance with plenty of torque throughout all speed ranges.
Safety
Honda City comes fully loaded with all active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) with Brake Assist, Dual SRS airbags, pre-tensioner seat belts andG-Force Control Technology body with a crush-proof survival zone. The front body structure ensures advanced pedestrian safety features. With the new City, these safety features are now a standard offering across the entire range of Honda in the Indian market.
The brand new Honda City is available in three variants - 1.5E (MT), 1.5S MT and 1.5S AT. It comes in a range of spectacular colors, including Habenero Red Pearl, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Bold Beige Metallic, Tafetta White and Crystal Black Pearl.
Verdict
The Honda City is regarded as a prestigious brand in India and the luxurious sedan has lot to offer its potential buyers after the revamp, in the form of a new engine, new design, more grandeur, increased cabin space, and not to mention top-notch performance.
