The pioneer of technology in Indian auto market, Honda, launched its new generation City sedan on 7th January in national capital. Post this launch, the iconic sedan was launched in Mumbai on January 8 and the car maker is extremely elated with successful advent of its new creation. The company did not leave any stone unturned to make the arrival of fourth generation Honda City a grand event and same was perceived by it after both the launch ceremonies.
All new Honda City is incorporated with options of 1.5-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines. Interestingly, the diesel trim has been launched for the first time in this sedan and is expected to be deemed much success in its on-road performance. The iVTEC variant is coupled with option of a 5-speed automatic or manual transmission and belts out 119 bhp with maximum torque of 145 Nm. The iDTEC variant on the other hand is assisted with a 6-speed manual gearbox and churns out impressive 98 bhp at peak torque of 200 Nm. Also, the fuel economy of both the variants are impressive, where the petrol mill delivers an Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) tested mileage of 18 kmpl and diesel trim records a steep 26 kmpl. It is believed to be the best statistics by any car in mid-level sedan segment.
At exterior, the car looks much more dynamical than its old model. The chrome plating in the front is much more extensive along with the iconic H logo of the company enclosed between the front grille. Multi-spoke alloy wheels enhance the looks of this car with a sporty angle. Rear is also tweaked a bit and perfectly compliments the whole body layout. At interiors, latest innovations can be witnessed ranging from touchscreen infotainment pane providing multimedia and navigation features, height adjustment driver seats, finely stitched leather and fabric upholstery, and new compartments for small luggage. Also the options of sunroof and steering mounted consoles are provided in higher models.
The pricing of all fuel trims of new Honda City has been done competitively keeping in mind the price bracket of its rivals like Volkswagen Vento, Skoda Rapid and Hyundai Verna. The base petrol model starts of fourth generation Honda City starts from Rs. 7.42 lakh and reaches till Rs. 11 lakh whereas, the diesel variants are priced in the bracket of Rs. 8.60 lakh – Rs. 11.10 lakh. All its rivals fall in a similar price range and have been performing efficiently on road, at present. One obstacle that is mounting on the heads of Honda is a swamp of pre-bookings for its top-notch sedan.
With the priority bookings commenced even before the official launch of new Honda city, company's dealerships have registered almost 9,000 bookings of this car. At present, the car is expected to witness a waiting period of 2-3 months and Honda needs to deal with such a situation efficiently. Not long ago, similar circumstances arose with Ford EcoSport and the company had to eventually cease bookings of its iconic compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). However, experts are of a view that Honda is much more reliable brand and will find a solution to make duly deliveries of its car. The stage has been set for fourth generation Honda City's success and it will be compelling to see how much time the car takes to overhaul its rivals and become indomitable in its respective segment.
