The all-new, fifth-generation 2020 Honda City has been revealed for the Thailand market and the mid-size sedan will eventually make its way into India next year. In terms of changes, the new model is 100 mm longer than the outgoing version though the wheelbase has shrunk. The cabin width is up by 53 mm but the overall height of the 2020 model is 28 mm lower than before.
Honda hasn’t tinkered with the silhouette and despite cosmetic changes manifesting in the form of the redesigned grille and large wrap-around projector headlamps, the overall form of Honda City is instantly recognizable. In the profile, the highlight of the sedan is its sleek character line that originates from the front fender and goes all the way back to merge with tail lamps. 15” alloys feel a tad small though we are sure for the Indian market, Honda will use bigger tires. Among other key design elements, worth mentioning include steeply raked windscreens, dynamic rear with LED tail lamps, and bulbous, high-set boot.
The ambiance inside the 2020 Honda City cabin is plusher and more up-market, thanks to the use of high-quality material, brushed aluminum, and minimalistic design theme. The Thailand-spec model features all-black interiors; however; for the India-bound variants Honda will offer a dual-tone color scheme.
The central attraction of the 2020 Honda City inside is an 8” touch screen infotainment system and the new model has ditched the virtual air-con controls in the favor of most conventional rotary knobs. As before, the three-spoke steering wheel comes equipped with audio, telephony and cruise controls. The dual-pod analog instrument cluster contains a host of information and its large-size is something that is hugely appreciated among the City owners.
In terms of engine and transmission, Thai-spec City comes powered by a 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine putting out 122 bhp and 173Nm. The engine is mated to a CVT with higher variants getting the convenience of paddle shifters. The fuel efficiency number for the turbocharged model stacks at an impressive 23.8 kmpl. In addition, a 1.5-liter petrol engine with Honda’s mild-hybrid technology is also on offer although specifications are not out yet. For India, Honda is expected to include the 1.5-liter diesel motor for the City model range and the new oil-burner will be compliant with stringent BS6 requirements.
On the safety front, 2020 Honda City will come equipped with six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-start assist function, and vehicle stability control. The India launch is expected in mid-2020 and upon its arrival, new City will continue to take on the likes of Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Varna, Volkswagen Vento, and Skoda Rapid among others.
