New Honda City takes quantum leap

It may have arrived late to the UAE's compact saloon segment, but, with much improved looks, the new Honda City marks a welcome arrival

Hot on the heels of the new Jazz, Honda has launched a new version of the City. In its fifth avatar, the previously South-East Asia-only model is now sold worldwide.

The old City wasn't exactly a looker. Its quirky styling, disproportionate dimensions, limited utility and poor image meant that, despite solid mechanical underpinnings and bullet-proof powertrains, it received a lukewarm response.

However, the latest version represents a quantum leap in styling and packaging. Its looks are reminiscent of the sharp European Honda Civic hatchback.

In profile, it's better balanced, thanks to a the 100mm extension of the wheelbase, although the overall length remains almost the same at 4,395mm.

The rear design of the car is more German than Japanese. Honda's ‘arrowshot' lines, especially around the pillars, waistline and rear lights, which have apparently been inspired by the profile of an archer with a drawn bow. Hmm.

Despite retaining the cab-forward stance, the outward visibility has improved significantly, with the removal of the fixed quarterglass and by reducing the rake and thickness of the A pillar by 14mm.

Inside, there's more lateral space for occupants. The front seats are comfortable, but thinner padding means reduced lumbar support. The rear accommodation is surprisingly generous too.

This being a city runabout, the boot space is an adequate 506 litres but can be impeded by the rear light clusters. The instrument panel is staid and the multifunctional steering wheel is straight out of the Civic.

The excessive use of plastic and the outdated switches somewhat dampen the otherwise premium feel. Chevrolet's Optra, Suzuki's SX4 and the new Ford Fiesta have the edge in cabin style.

Creature comforts include front and rear armrests with cup holders, power windows, central locking with keyless entry and an iPod dock. However, some of the ergonomics aren't brilliant. For example, the front cup is unusable when the gearshift is in Park.

Like the Civic, the new City gets a single i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, displacing 1.5-litres. Rated at 118bhp at 6,600rpm, it offers 8bhp more than the outgoing model and is managed by drive-by-wire electronics.

Peak torque of 145Nm comes at 4,800rpm and a five-speed automatic transmission replaces the CVT as standard. For extra money, Honda will throw in a S sports pack, which gives you paddle shifters and liberates extra torque.

Driving

The powertrain is eager and more responsive than the 107bhp Optra, but is a bit noisy initially. Unlike the SOHC VTEC unit in the previous City, the new engine varies the valve timing and valve lift, though this is not a continuously variable system and instead switches over at pre-set rev points.

This is most noticeable as a torque dip between 3,300 to 3,500rpm. The City's rigid frame and revised suspension helps in cornering stability and minimising body roll, which, in turn, inspires confidence in you to push harder.

Although a delight to throw around corners, the electric power steering isn't as sharp as the looks. And the cabin is mostly quiet, but some tyre noise can seep into the cabin at high speeds.

There's some fun to be had though, by selecting the S mode. The paddle shifters are fun, but there is a short time lag between flicking the paddle and gear engaging, especially during upshifts.

This happens because the gearbox is controlled electronically and, unless the engine revs in the programmed band width, the gears won't engage.

The standard anti-lock brakes, with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, do the job well, but are a tad over sensitive at times.

Verdict

Compared to rivals, the City is an expensive proposal, but then it is an extremely well-rounded car. The price for the new City starts at Dh57,000.