The Honda City has built a reputation as the country's most aspirational mid-size sedan since it was launched in India back in 1998. With attributes including
dependability, good fuel efficiency, and great looks held together by a design that has stood the test of time, the City soon graduated to become a status symbol among urban buyers. Over the years, it has seen several new generations, updating dramatically everything from design to performance and safety to technology. SUVs may have taken over the Indian car market these days but the Honda City is still a frontrunner for sedans. Have a look at how each generation of this country's favorite sedan fared. Also Read: New TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Apache RTR 200 4V Top Variants Launched - Price Starts From Rs 1.28 Lakh
First Generation (1998–2003)
The Honda City originally entered the Indian market in 1998 with 1.3 litre and 1.5 litre petrol-swilling engine options. It was a complete hit from day one as the design and driving dynamics flattered many. Later, the sporty “VTEC” version added more appeal among people.
Second Generation (2003–2008)
This generation displayed a more rounded design and improved cabin space. The City took in Honda’s clever i-DSI engine, significantly boosting fuel economy, and firming up its standing as a trusted family sedan. It also started drawing chauffeur-driven buyers, widening its market pull.
Third Generation (2008–2013)
Launched in 2008, this version adopted a sleeker, arrow-shot design. A 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol unit gave strong output and enhanced efficiency. Safety features like ABS and airbags were standard in most variants now.
Fourth Generation (2014–2020)
It was this generation that saw the Honda City being powered by a 1.5-litre i-DTEC engined diesel variant along with its petrol sibling. A touchscreen infotainment system, a sunroof, and better interior layout features made it extremely competitive in the market.Also Read: BMW iX3 Debuts As First Neue Klasse EV With 805 Km Range
Fifth Generation (2020–Present)
The fifth-generation Honda City came out in 2020 with a look that was more premium and features that were high in tech. It had BS6-compliant petrol and hybrid engines, Honda Sensing ADAS, connected car technology, and better safety features.
In March 2023, Honda launched the facelifted City with a price tag beginning from Rs 11.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The update carries a much aggressively styled front grille, new bumpers, refreshed alloy wheels, and a complete setup of LED lighting. In terms of features, it comes equipped with Level 2 ADAS Honda Sensing Suite, wireless charger, ambient lighting, and upgraded infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Also to note here is the fact that six airbags have now become a standard offering on all the variants, thereby making the car safer.
The market trend keeps evolving but in its segment, the Honda City has always been the setter!
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