Picture this: You’re cruising down a wide expressway, the sun setting in your rearview mirror, while your Honda City glides effortlessly over the tarmac. There’s something special about this sedan that has captured the hearts of Indian car buyers for over two decades. Today, I’m going to take you through everything you need to know about the Honda City, from its impressive features to real-world performance.
Why the Honda City Continues to Rule Indian Roads
I remember my first encounter with a Honda City – it was back when the dolphin-shaped model had just hit the market. Fast forward to today, and the City has evolved into a sophisticated sedan that perfectly balances luxury with practicality. What makes it truly special is how it has consistently adapted to Indian needs while maintaining its core DNA of reliability and performance.
Power Under the Hood: Engine and Performance
The heart of any car is its engine, and the Honda City doesn’t disappoint. The current model comes with a refined 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine that puts out a respectable 121PS and 145Nm of torque. But numbers don’t tell the whole story – let me break down what this means for your daily drive:
Transmission Options
You get two choices:
- A smooth 6-speed manual transmission for those who enjoy complete control
- A sophisticated CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for hassle-free city driving
Fuel Efficiency That Makes Sense
In a country where fuel prices make headlines, the City delivers impressive mileage:
- Manual Transmission: 18.4 kmpl (ARAI certified)
- CVT: 17.8 kmpl (ARAI certified)
Pro tip: I’ve found that maintaining steady speeds between 80-90 kmph on highways gives the best fuel efficiency.
A Deep Dive into Features That Matter
Safety First
Honda hasn’t cut corners when it comes to safety:
- Up to 6 airbags in top variants
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
- Hill Start Assist
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Advanced braking system with EBD
Comfort and Convenience
The City shines when it comes to creature comforts:
- Single-pane sunroof (in select variants)
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Full LED headlamps with distinctive H-shaped DRLs
- Connected LED taillights
- Spacious 506-liter boot capacity
The Honda City e:HEV Hybrid: A Glimpse into the Future
If you’re environmentally conscious or just tired of frequent fuel stops, the City e:HEV hybrid variant deserves your attention. With a claimed mileage of 26.5 kmpl, it’s setting new benchmarks in the segment. The hybrid system seamlessly switches between pure electric and petrol power, making it ideal for both city traffic and highway cruising.
How Does It Compare to Rivals?
Let’s look at how the City stacks up against its main competitors:
Comparative Analysis
| Feature | Honda City | Hyundai Verna | Maruti Suzuki Ciaz | Skoda Slavia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Size | 1.5L | 1.5L | 1.5L | 1.0L/1.5L |
| Power Output | 121PS | 115PS | 105PS | 115PS/150PS |
| Boot Space | 506L | 480L | 495L | 521L |
| Claimed Mileage | 18.4 kmpl | 18.6 kmpl | 20.65 kmpl | 18.1 kmpl |
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership
One of the City’s strongest suits is its reliability. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining one:
- Regular service intervals: Every 10,000 km or 1 year
- Average service cost: ₹5,000-8,000 per regular service
- Major service (40,000 km): ₹12,000-15,000
Making the Right Choice: Which Variant Should You Pick?
If you’re considering buying a Honda City, here’s my recommendation based on different needs:
For the Budget-Conscious
The V variant offers the best balance of features and value. You get essential safety features and comfortable interiors without breaking the bank.
For the Tech-Savvy
The ZX variant is your best bet, coming loaded with all the bells and whistles including the sunroof and advanced safety features.
For the Environmentally Conscious
The e:HEV hybrid variant, though pricier, offers the best fuel efficiency and lowest carbon footprint.
Tips for City Owners
- Break-in Period
- Keep speeds under 100 kmph for the first 1,000 km
- Avoid harsh acceleration and braking
- Get the first service done on time
- Fuel Efficiency Tips
- Maintain tire pressure at recommended levels
- Use the ECO mode in city traffic
- Regular air filter cleaning/replacement
- Smooth acceleration and braking
The Verdict
The Honda City continues to be a compelling choice in the Indian sedan segment. Its blend of comfort, performance, and reliability makes it suitable for both city commutes and long drives. While it may not be the cheapest option in its segment, the quality and features justify the premium pricing.
For those considering a City, I’d recommend taking a test drive to experience its refined nature firsthand. Pay special attention to the seating comfort and handling characteristics – these are areas where the City truly shines.
