The next most anticipated release in the India car market, at present, is the diesel version of Honda City. Since the announcement made by Japanese car maker to introduce diesel City in India by early 2014, the whole country is abuzz with the development. In fact the kind of talk it has generated speaks about the reception that it will receive in the country post launch. Experts have already predicted that with the availability of both petrol and diesel fuel options, the next generation Honda City has a huge potential to overturn the market on its own. As confirmed by the company officials, the next generation model of this mid-size sedan shall be unveiled on 25th November, 2013 while its deliveries shall start from January 2014. Some of the exciting new things that might make way on the upcoming Honda City are mentioned below.
One of the main highlights in the upcoming Honda City is the availability of diesel engine. As reported, the car would be powered by the 1.5-litre i-DTEC engine, which also performs in Amaze. However, the respective outputs given in the engine of City and Amaze might be entirely different. It is reported that the diesel engine of City will be equipped with a Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) that will render the engine to produce a power output of 120 bhp while attaining maximum torque of 225 Nm. Talking about the transmission options, the car would be initially offered with a 5-speed manual gearbox, while later on, the possibility of an automatic drivetrain cannot be ruled out.
Other than the engine and performance, it is said that the next generation Honda City would bear a different size as compared to incumbent model. Experts are saying that the car would be longer and wider as the Japanese auto maker would be trying to fill the void left in the segment of Civic, which was earlier discontinued by the company. However, till now Honda has not released any information regarding the dimensions of the car. Also to mention, the upcoming City would have the best-in-class features like premium leather upholstery, automatic air conditioning system and tilt steering wheel. Reports further state that the a new multimedia touch screen system with audio-visual navigation, might make way on the car.
The safety equipment given in Honda City is expected to be of a better quality. Features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), dual front SRS airbags and rear parking sensors are almost certain to feature in diesel Honda City. According to industry experts, Honda City diesel might offer a superior mileage as compared to the same segment cars. With its i-DTEC engine, the car would give return an fuel economy of 12 to 15 kmpl during normal driving conditions. Most important factor is the price of car, and Honda City is anticipated to carry an aggressive tag. Reports have suggested that the base variant might be offered from Rs. 8 lakh to Rs. 9 lakh while the top-spec trim can be priced around Rs. 12 lakh.
