Honda City Review: The Sedan That Thinks Ahead
The Honda City has long been a benchmark in the premium sedan segment, and the latest iteration elevates that legacy by thinking ahead. Priced from ₹ 12,38,000~, it arrives with a groundbreaking, first-in-segment^ suite of Honda SENSING safety technologies, designed to read the road and mitigate collisions. Blending charismatic looks with luxurious comfort, the City is more than just a car; it’s a power that sees further and leads ahead. It is engineered for those who demand sophisticated design, intelligent technology, and an unparalleled driving experience in one comprehensive package.
Charisma that Leads, Looks that Excite
The Honda City is loaded with features that define its sporty and sensational character.
Honda SENSING Technology:
Drive with next-level confidence thanks to an advanced ADAS suite, including Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Seamless Connectivity:
Stay connected with a 20.3 cm (8″) Touchscreen featuring Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, plus Honda Connect with Alexa.
Luxurious Cabin Experience:
The cabin features premium leather upholstery, soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and a one-touch electric sunroof for an opulent feel.
Powerful i-VTEC Engine:
At its heart is a refined 1.5L i-VTEC DOHC engine, delivering 121 PS and 145 Nm of torque for a thrilling yet efficient drive.
Sporty & Sensational Design:
Features a Sporty Diamond Chequered Grille, Full LED Headlamps with 9-array inline shells, and R16 Dual-Tone Diamond-Cut Alloy Wheels.
Enhanced Safety Awareness:
The segment-first LaneWatch™ Camera and a multi-angle rear camera provide superior visibility and reduce blind spots for safer driving.
Advanced Driver Interface:
The cockpit features a 17.7 cm (7-inch) HD Full Colour TFT Meter that provides vital information, including a G-force meter, with intuitive controls.
Smart Key Convenience:
Features like Remote Engine Start (CVT), Walk Away Auto Lock, and keyless window/sunroof operation add a layer of modern convenience.
Premium Sound System:
Enjoy an immersive audio experience with the 8 Speaker Premium Surround Sound System, delivering rich and clear sound throughout the cabin.
Full Specifications (Top-end ZX Variant)
Engine & Transmission
- Engine Type:1.5L i-VTEC DOHC with VTC
- Displacement:1498 cc
- Max Power:89 kW (121 PS) @ 6600 rpm
- Max Torque:145 Nm @ 4300 rpm
- Transmission:7-Speed CVT with Paddle Shifters / 6-Speed MT
- Fuel Efficiency:18.40 km/L (CVT), 17.77 km/L (MT)
Dimensions & Weight
- Overall Length:4583 mm
- Overall Width:1748 mm
- Overall Height:1489 mm
- Wheelbase:2600 mm
- Boot Space:506 L
- Kerb Weight:1153 kg (Top Variant)
- Fuel Tank Capacity:40 L
- Turning Radius:5.3 m
Brakes, Tyres & Suspension
- Front Brake:Disc (Ventilated)
- Rear Brake:Drum
- Tyre Size:185/55 R16
- Wheel Type:R16 Dual-Tone Diamond-Cut Alloy
- Front Suspension:McPherson Strut with Coil Spring
- Rear Suspension:Torsion Beam with Coil Spring
Safety & Security
- Airbags: 6 Airbags System (Standard)
- Honda SENSING: CMBS, ACC, LKAS, RDM, Auto High-Beam
- Body Structure: Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE™)
- Driver Assists: VSA with Agile Handling Assist, Hill Start Assist
- Cameras & Sensors: Multi-Angle Rear Camera, LaneWatch™, Rear Sensors
- ABS with EBD: Standard with Brake Assist
The Driving Experience: Pros and Cons
Pros: What Makes the City a Leader
- First-in-Segment^ Honda SENSING: The comprehensive ADAS suite offers a level of safety that is unparalleled in its category, genuinely thinking ahead for the driver.
- Exceptional Cabin Space & Comfort: The ‘Man Maximum, Machine Minimum’ philosophy translates into a remarkably spacious and luxurious cabin with a massive 506L boot.
- Refined Performance & Efficiency: The 1.5L i-VTEC engine and smooth CVT offer a perfect balance of spirited performance and excellent fuel economy.
- Premium Fit, Finish, and Feel: From the leather upholstery to the click-feel AC dials, the City exudes a sense of quality and sophistication.
Cons: Points for Consideration
- No Diesel or Turbo-Petrol Option: Buyers looking for the high-torque characteristics of a diesel or turbo-petrol engine will have to look elsewhere.
- Rear Drum Brakes: While sufficient, the absence of rear disc brakes is a noticeable omission in a segment where competitors often include them.
- Infotainment Screen Size: The 8-inch screen, while functional with wireless connectivity, is smaller than the larger displays offered by some rivals.
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Honda City is an outstanding choice for:
- The Safety-First Buyer: For those who prioritize safety, the Honda SENSING suite and 6 standard airbags make the City a top contender.
- The Sophisticated Urban Family: Its blend of luxury, space, comfort, and advanced features makes it a perfect family sedan for city life and highway journeys.
- The Tech-Savvy Professional: With wireless smartphone integration, connected car tech, and a smart key system, it caters to those who value modern convenience.
- Drivers Seeking Reliability: The City is built on Honda’s legacy of bulletproof reliability and refined engineering, promising a hassle-free ownership experience.
Who Might Consider Other Options?
You might consider other options if:
- You Prioritize Punchy Performance: If you’re looking for the aggressive torque of a turbo-petrol engine, the City’s linear power delivery might feel too tame.
- You Want the Latest Comfort Gadgets: Buyers seeking features like ventilated seats or a 360-degree camera will find them missing from the City’s standard equipment list.
- You Prefer an SUV’s Stance: For those who need higher ground clearance or prefer the high-riding position of an SUV.
Competitive Edge: What Sets It Apart
The Honda City distinguishes itself in a crowded market with several key advantages:
- Leadership in Safety: The integration of Honda SENSING as a comprehensive suite across variants is a significant and unmatched safety proposition in its class.
- Mastery of Space: Honda’s ‘Man Maximum, Machine Minimum’ design philosophy gives the City a tangible advantage in cabin roominess and boot capacity.
- Legendary Powertrain Refinement: The i-VTEC engine is a benchmark for smoothness, reliability, and linear power delivery, offering a stress-free ownership experience.
- Brand Trust and Resale Value: The Honda City nameplate carries immense trust and has historically commanded strong resale value, making it a sound financial decision.
Final Verdict: The Intelligent Sedan That Sets the Standard
The Honda City continues its reign by not just keeping up with the times, but by thinking ahead. Its masterstroke is the integration of the Honda SENSING safety suite, making advanced driver-assistance features accessible and setting a new benchmark for its class. While it forgoes engine diversity, it perfects the petrol powertrain, delivering a supremely refined and reliable performance. With its blend of luxurious comfort, intelligent technology, and a commanding presence, the Honda City is a complete and compelling package. It is the definitive choice for the discerning buyer who seeks a sedan that is as safe as it is sophisticated.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)