2020 Honda City: How Does The New Sedan Compare Against The Old One

Finally! After a very long delay, the India-spec 2020 Honda City has been unwrapped. It’s based on a new platform, comes loaded with features and will come with upgraded BS6-compliant engines. But how big of an improvement is it when compared to its predecessor which could be sold alongside its newer sibling? Let’s find out:

Size and Style!

A close look at the table reveals that the new City rides on an identical wheelbase and is a bit shorter in height. However, it’s a full 109mm longer and 53mm wider than its predecessor. This could result in the new City being a bit more comfortable and spacious on the inside.  

So the new City is larger. But what about looks? At first glance, the new car is instantly identifiable as a City thanks to a familiar chrome-laden Honda grille. However, the new LED headlamps and the more muscular bumpers make it look more like the bigger Civic, which is no bad thing.  

That said, the side profile makes the City look like a stretched Honda Amaze. Moving on to the rear, the City takes a more sleeker approach this time around and comes with new LED tail lamps that look similar to BMWs.

Interior:

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The redesigned interior of the 2020 Honda City comes with a minimalist and simple design language. However, unlike the current model, the use of piano black interior trim, which is prone to scratches, is kept to a bare minimum. This is a good thing as it’s easier to maintain the cabin in the long run and those who have OCD needn’t worry about scratches picking up and spoiling the design. 

Other highlights include a new semi-digital instrument cluster which now packs a large 7-inch display and climate control knobs that replace the current City’s touch-based controls. Also new is the updated steering wheel and leather seats which look more premium than before.

What About Features?

First, the common features. Both models come with a touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, cruise control, a sunroof, keyless entry with push button start and automatic headlamps. 

But considering its tough competition, the City needs to make a dent in this department. And Honda has gone all-l out by equipping it with features from higher-end models. Notable features include connected car technology, Alexa compatibility, Honda’s Lane Watch Camera (which feeds the view from the left ORVM camera) and a tyre pressure monitor.  

The new three-point seat belt for the middle occupant at the rear is a welcome addition. Also new is electronic stability control and hill launch assist. Other safety features like six airbags, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors with camera are present on both models. 

Identical Powertrains? 

The fourth-gen City is currently offered with a BS6-compliant 1.5-litre petrol engine. The new City gets a slightly revised version of the same that puts out 2PS more, at 121PS. Both cars have identical torque figures of 145Nm. Also new in the 2020 City is a 6-speed manual transmission while the older model comes with a 5-speed MT. Automatic variants of both models come mated to a CVT with paddle shifters.  

However, if you want a diesel City, you’ve got no other option but to go for the newer model. Honda has discontinued the diesel variants of the fourth-generation City while upgrading it to meet BS6 emission norms. The diesel engine in question is Honda’s 1.5-litre i-DTEC engine that develops 100PS of power and 200Nm of torque. A 6-speed manual gearbox is the only transmission on offer. An automatic variant will be sorely missed as the smaller Honda Amaze diesel comes with a CVT. 

Verdict And Prices:

	Fourth-gen City	2020 Honda City
Prices (ex-showroom)	Rs 9.91 lakh to Rs 14.31 lakh	Rs 11 lakh onwards (expected)

 

Considering the upgrades, the new City will definitely be on the pricier side of the spectrum. But which City should you choose if the fourth-gen model continues to be sold alongside? If you’re on a budget and want a no-nonsense sedan with a decent set of features, then the fourth-gen City could be a good pick. However, if you want a more premium sedan and can stretch your budget, the 2020 Honda City is the way to go.