New Honda City analysis

Honda has launched their bread and butter model, the all new 2014 Honda City, in its latest avatar. Going into its fourth generation, the car has a lot to take forward from its legacy of being the best and most adorable entry level premium sedan in India for Rs. 7.42 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

WordPress’s initial analysis:

Looks:
Honda has always been known to create revolutionary designs and create a stir with an all new generation of their cars to be showcased. All the cars in their latest iterations never looked similar to the models they replaced, a perfect example being the last 3 generations of the City. All were radically different from the model they replaced, so be prepared to be disappointed if you’re looking for something radical or revolutionary.

Inside:

Yet again, Honda’s “Man Maximum and Machine Minimum” has done wonders inside the car. You get acres of space inside with everything simply functional and ergonomically falling right into place. The rear bench is a real delight since there is plenty of leg space.

Features:

Honda has added a new 5” touch screen interface in the top of the line model. Just beneath the music interface there is a touch screen panel instead of your regular AC knobs. Features like leather seats, sunroof and cruise control have been retained in the top of the line model, which was introduced during the facelift of last generation.

Engines:

The highlight of the new generation is the introduction of diesel power. The engine is the same Earth dream unit, which was introduced in the Amaze sedan and produces the same 100 Ps @ 3,600 RPM, Honda claims this unit of being the most fuel efficient car in the nation with an ARAI-certified 26kmpl. The petrol unit is carried forward from the old generation but with slightly different setup to be more fuel efficient and more responsive at lower rpm’s. The diesel is gifted with a 6-speed transmission, while the petrol unit uses the same old 5-speed transmission or a CVT automatic gearbox.

Variants:

The new City is offered in 5 trims ranging from the base E to VX in top guise (E, S, SV, V and VX) in diesel and petrol offerings plus 2 versions, the SV and VX in the petrol automatic only.

Pricing:

Petrol version starts at 7.42 lakh for the base line and goes up to 10.98 for the top automatic petrol, while the diesel base is offered at 8.62 lakh and goes up to 11.10 lakh for the top VX diesel trim

What will work in new City’s favour:

• Enjoys cult status, City moniker itself is good enough to pull customers
• Addition of diesel engine gives it armour against competition, which was long missing
• Loaded with features

What can go against new Honda City:

• Capable competition in form of Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Rapid
• India’s latest love for urban SUV’s in form of Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster
• Same diesel being shared in Honda Amaze sedan, which competes in a segment below