Honda City Hatchback Facelift : Calling all hatchback enthusiasts! The wait is finally over. Honda has unveiled the much-anticipated facelift for its popular City Hatchback at the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show 2024.
This sporty refresh boasts a combination of aesthetic enhancements, functional upgrades, and the exciting introduction of a new e:HEV hybrid variant. Buckle up as we delve into the details of this exciting update.
Sharpened Design: A Visual Feast for the Streets
The first thing that grabs your attention is the City Hatchback’s revamped front fascia. The chrome bar has undergone a sleek transformation, appearing slimmer and sporting a brand new mesh insert design.
The front bumper also receives variant-specific accents, with the RS variants featuring a honeycomb mesh on the lower intake for a more aggressive look. Fog lamp garnishes are more prominent on the RS variants, adding a touch of distinction.
Move around to the rear, and the RS variants continue to impress. They now flaunt a sportier diffuser, along with black side mirror covers and special emblems that vary depending on the chosen variant. Non-RS models get a revised lower apron featuring a new black valance and a body-colored panel strip for a cleaner aesthetic.
Color options have received a refresh as well, but exclusively for the RS variants. Gear up to turn heads with two exciting new choices: Ignite Red Metallic and Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic with a Black Roof.
Existing color options like Meteoroid Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Sonic Gray Pearl, and Platinum White Pearl (available on select variants) are still available, along with Tafetta White for the base S+ variant.
Interior Refinements: Comfort with a Touch of Tech
While the interiors haven’t undergone a major overhaul, there are some subtle yet thoughtful improvements. Notably, the e:HEV variants now boast USB-C charging ports for rear passengers, replacing the earlier 12V power outlet.
Another minor yet convenient addition is a small inner pocket installed behind the front seats, perfect for storing your smartphone within easy reach.
Enhanced Safety: Confidence on Every Drive
Safety remains a top priority for Honda, and the City Hatchback facelift reflects that commitment. The inclusion of an electronic parking brake adds convenience and control.
Additionally, a new Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN) keeps you alert, ensuring you don’t miss a beat on the road. Standard Honda Sensing features, available across all variants, provide a comprehensive safety net.
These include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) for effortless highway cruising, Auto High-Beam (AHB) for improved nighttime visibility, Road Departure Mitigation System with Lane Departure Warning (RDM with LDW) to keep you centered in your lane, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) for gentle steering correction, and Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) to prevent potential collisions.
Powertrain Options: Take Your Pick
The City Hatchback facelift caters to a diverse range of drivers with its selection of powertrains. The base-spec S+, SV, and RS variants come equipped with a 1.0-litre gasohol-compliant turbo petrol engine that delivers a punchy 122 PS of max power and 173 Nm of peak torque. This engine is mated to a CVT for a smooth and responsive driving experience.
For those seeking an eco-friendly option, the new e:HEV hybrid variants offer an exciting alternative. The e:HEV lineup welcomes a new SV variant, providing more choice for hybrid enthusiasts. The top-spec e:HEV RS variant gets a price cut, making it even more attractive.
Honda’s advanced Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) hybrid system sits at the heart of the e:HEV variants. This innovative system combines a primary electric traction motor with a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine.
The electric motor generates a substantial 109 PS and 253 Nm of torque, transferred via a single-speed transmission for a seamless driving experience. The petrol engine acts as a generator, recharging the battery and providing additional power when needed at high speeds.
Honda City Hatchback Facelift: A Compelling Package
The Honda City Hatchback facelift emerges as a compelling proposition for hatchback buyers in India. With its stylish design refresh, improved technology features, enhanced safety systems, and the introduction of the e:HEV hybrid variants, this updated model offers a well-rounded package that caters to both style and substance.
Whether you’re a driving enthusiast seeking a sporty and powerful ride or an eco-conscious driver looking for a fuel-efficient option, the City Hatchback facelift has something for everyone. Stay tuned for further updates on the official launch date and pricing details for the Indian market.
