Since the Indian auto market witnessed the unveiling of Honda City Diesel, huge buzz has been stirring as to how the car will finally perform in the country. The Japanese auto maker might have entered the already established market of diesel cars a bit late but this fact is unlikely to hinder plans of the company's wide customer base. According to experts, the diesel version of City will carve a niche in the Indian market as Honda has managed to register mammoth growth in 2013 and is likely to continue this performance in 2014 as well. Expectations are high from the car and it certainly will be cruising way ahead of the predictions.
The diesel version of Honda City is going to be powered by the same engine which is fitted in Honda Amaze. Some experts feel that 1.5-litre diesel engine will deliver power in excess of 100 bhp and peak torque better than 200 Nm. With a stylish chrome railing on the front grill, the car has a cutting edge appearance that is highly attractive. Amidst all the hype, one should not forget rivals eagerly waiting to give Honda City a run for its money. It is anticipated that Honda City diesel will face stiff competition from the likes of Volkswagen Vento, Maruti Suzuki SX4 and the dominating Hyundai Verna.
Coming to Maruti Suzuki SX4, the car has seen a moderate success among masses. Under the bonnet is a 1250 cc 16-valve engine producing 88 bhp at 4000 rpm and a peak torque of 200 Nm with a 5-speed manual transmission. The second contender turns out to be Volkswagen Vento, which has constantly proven its worth in the domestic market. The 1.6-litre diesel unit employed develops a torque of 250 Nm and power output of 104 bhp. This engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.
However, the biggest competitor of Honda City diesel will be Hyundai Verna, which has earned accolades from buyers and critics across the country. Verna has been largely accepted as a mid-range luxury sedan by a vast number of customers. Featuring a 1.6-litre VTVT engine, it is a powerhouse developing 121 bhp at 6300 rpm and maximum torque of 260 Nm. A sleek and sporty exterior of the car with a large boot space is alluring to the customers.
Considering the success of Amaze, it is largely speculated that Honda City diesel will turn out to be the game changer in mid-sized sedan segment. The i-DTEC engine has earned appreciation from all critics and customers, leading Amaze to touch almost 50000 bookings. The Earth Dreams diesel technology, single-handedly, has turned around Honda's fortunes in India. Add to that the popularity of City model; it is only certain that this car will register excellent sales figures in India. However, some experts feel Hyundai Verna will provide really stiff competition to new Honda City. To put things in a nutshell, the rivalry in the sedan segment of the Indian market is set to stiffen with the introduction of Honda City diesel.
