Honda City

The 2023 Honda City's interior represents a remarkable blend of functionality, comfort, and technological sophistication, ensuring an enhanced driving experience for every Malaysian customer. Across its various variants, the City offers an array of interior features tailored to meet diverse preferences.

Starting with the base S variant, the interior boasts practicality and user-friendly features. It includes an 8-inch infotainment unit, which facilitates entertainment and connectivity. Moreover, the inclusion of eight speakers ensures an enjoyable audio experience. The cabin is appointed with colored illumination for the automatic air conditioning system, making the environment visually appealing and comfortable.

Stepping up to the E variant, you'll notice added conveniences. It introduces remote engine start, enabling drivers to prepare the vehicle before even stepping inside. In the E variant, two rear USB ports enhance rear passenger connectivity, ensuring everyone's devices stay charged. Additionally, this variant offers an eight-inch Display Audio touchscreen head unit, which supports both wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing seamless smartphone integration. Furthermore, the E variant showcases a dual-tone finish on its 15-inch alloy wheels, adding a touch of style to its appearance.

The V variant elevates the interior with more upscale features. Notably, it offers leather upholstery, enhancing both the look and feel of the cabin. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob add a premium touch, making driving a pleasure. The inclusion of Honda LaneWatch, a side-view camera system, enhances safety and convenience by providing a wider field of vision for lane changes and parking.

For those who opt for the petrol RS variant, an even more refined interior awaits. It features leather and ultrasuede upholstery adorned with red stitching, infusing a sporty and premium ambiance. The dashboard, center tunnel, and other key areas receive red stitching accents, creating a cohesive and stylish look. A seven-inch TFT high-definition digital display replaces the standard instrument cluster, offering modern visuals and information. Notably, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity reduces cable clutter while maintaining seamless smartphone integration. Sport aluminum pedals further enhance the RS's sporty character.

In the range-topping RS e:HEV hybrid variant, the interior's excellence extends to technology and convenience. It introduces the Low-Speed Follow function, enhancing the adaptive cruise control capabilities. The inclusion of an electronic parking brake simplifies parking, adding convenience to daily driving.

Passenger & Boot Space

Passenger & Boot Space: Inside, the Honda City provides a comfortable environment for passengers. The S and E variants feature fabric upholstery, while the V and RS models offer leather appointments for a touch of luxury. The cabin remains spacious, with generous legroom in both the front and rear. The rear seats can be split-folded in non-hybrid models, enhancing cargo flexibility. Boot space remains ample, with 519 liters in non-hybrid variants and 410 liters in the hybrid model.

Comfort & Entertainment

Honda has equipped the City with a range of comfort and entertainment features across its variants. Even the base S variant includes conveniences like keyless entry and start, paddle shifters, and a multi-angle reverse camera. Moving up to the E variant adds single-zone automatic climate control and an eight-inch Display Audio touchscreen head unit that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The RS models further enhance the driving experience with features like sports pedals, Honda Connect telematics, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.

The 2023 Honda City facelift introduces a refreshing exterior design that distinguishes it from its predecessors. Variants like the RS sport a black-finished chrome bar and honeycomb mesh grille, paired with unique design elements like a rear diffuser, boot spoiler, and side skirts. The dimensions have subtly increased, with the RS models being slightly longer at 4,589 mm. Non-RS models measure 4,580 mm. However, the width (1,748 mm), height (1,467 mm), and wheelbase (2,600 mm) remain unchanged. The boot space in non-hybrid models remains spacious at 519 liters, while the hybrid version offers 410 liters.

The 2023 Honda City facelift focuses on enhancing comfort and entertainment features across its variants, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for all passengers.

Starting with the base S variant, you'll find a range of standard features including 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic halogen projector headlamps, and LED daytime running lights (DRLs). Stepping up to the E variant adds more convenience with remote engine start. The V variant elevates the experience further with 16-inch alloys, automatic LED headlamps, front LED fog lamps, and the Honda LaneWatch side-view camera system for enhanced visibility.

What is the difference between City S and City RS variants?

The main differences between the City S and RS variants typically include features like sportier styling, larger alloy wheels, and additional tech options, with RS models often positioned as higher-end versions.

The fuel consumption figures for the new model are not yet available. However, the older 2021 Honda City 1.5 RS had an impressive fuel consumption rate, with a reported 5.4 L/100km in the city and an even more efficient 3.6 L/100km on the highway. This makes it a cost-effective choice for urban and long-distance driving. However, it's worth noting that fuel efficiency figures may vary for different variants of the Honda City.

Is the Honda City fuel efficient?

Yes, the Honda City is known for its fuel efficiency, with the 2021 City 1.5 RS achieving 5.5 L/100km.

The 2023 Honda City facelift offers a well-rounded driving experience that caters to a wide range of preferences. Regardless of whether you opt for the non-hybrid variants or the e:HEV RS, you can expect a reliable and comfortable ride.

The non-hybrid versions are powered by a proven 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated inline-four DOHC i-VTEC engine. This engine delivers a respectable 121 PS (119 hp or 89 kW) at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,300 rpm. The power is smoothly delivered to the front wheels through a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This combination provides a balanced mix of performance and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for daily commutes and long highway drives.

On the other hand, the e:HEV RS variant features the Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system, known for its efficiency and responsiveness. It employs an electric motor with an output of 109 PS (107 hp or 80 kW) and a robust 253 Nm of torque. This electric motor is complemented by a lithium-ion battery that's charged by another electric motor connected to a 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, operating on the Atkinson cycle.

The hybrid powertrain's petrol engine contributes 98 PS (97 hp or 72 kW) and 127 Nm of torque. This engine primarily functions as a generator to charge the battery, but it can also directly drive the wheels at higher speeds when optimal. This hybrid setup offers not only impressive fuel efficiency but also excellent low-end torque and responsiveness, making city driving a breeze.

The 2023 Honda City boasts a robust set of specs and a meticulously engineered powertrain. Built on a sturdy platform, this B-segment sedan exhibits excellent chassis dynamics and ride comfort. Under the hood, it houses a 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, delivering 121 PS (119 hp) at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,300 rpm. This powerplant is mated to a CVT automatic transmission with an ECON mode, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery. The City's precise handling and comfortable ride are a testament to its well-crafted platform, chassis, and powertrain, making it an ideal choice for the discerning Malaysian driver.

Is the Honda City RS gas or diesel?

The Honda City RS typically runs on gasoline (petrol), not diesel, offering decent performance and commendable fuel efficiency.

Is the Honda City RS gas or diesel?

The Honda City RS typically runs on gasoline (petrol), not diesel, offering decent performance and commendable fuel efficiency.

Safety is a priority in the 2023 Honda City. Honda Sensing, featuring advanced driver-assistance systems like Forward Collision Warning and Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist System, and Adaptive Cruise Control, is now standard across all variants. Notably, six airbags are included in all models, enhancing overall safety. The hybrid e:HEV RS additionally features Low-Speed Follow and Lead Car Departure Notification, ensuring comprehensive safety for all occupants.

In terms of braking, it's noteworthy that the non-hybrid V and RS models are equipped with rear brake discs, a feature absent in the previous V and V-Sensing models. However, the e:HEV RS stands out with an electronic parking brake, while other variants retain a conventional handbrake.

How many airbags does the Honda City e:HEV RS have?

The Honda City e:HEV RS typically comes with six SRS airbags, providing enhanced safety for occupants.

Value for Money

The 2023 Honda City facelift presents a compelling value proposition. While the prices have seen increases compared to the pre-facelift model, the range of features and improvements justifies the cost. The S variant starts at RM84,900, with the E, V, and RS variants offering additional features for slightly higher prices. The hybrid e:HEV RS, priced at RM111,900, combines efficiency with advanced features.

Considerable attention is given to ownership costs, including insurance and maintenance. The 2023 Honda City facelift provides a reassuring ownership experience with a standard five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty. This comprehensive coverage ensures protection for the vehicle over an extended period, a significant benefit for buyers.

Which is better, the City RS or e:HEV RS?

The choice between RS and e:HEV RS depends on your priorities. RS offers sportier styling, while e:HEV RS is a hybrid with improved fuel efficiency and environmental benefits.

Warranty

Honda Malaysia includes a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, offering peace of mind to buyers. Maintenance costs are further eased with a free labor service applicable up to five times within 100,000 km or five years. Additionally, the hybrid variant comes with an eight-year, unlimited-mileage warranty for its lithium-ion battery, enhancing the overall value proposition.

Furthermore, for those seeking additional peace of mind, an extended warranty option is available. Although specific pricing details for the extended warranty are not available, this option allows customers to tailor their coverage to their preferences and driving habits. It's a valuable choice for those who plan to keep their vehicle for an extended period and want to mitigate potential repair costs in the future.

Honda City vs. Toyota Vios

In the Malaysian market, the Honda City and Toyota Vios are closely matched rivals. Both start at similar price points, offering similar power and safety features. However, the City's RS variant distinguishes itself with advanced connectivity options like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, setting it apart from the Vios.

Honda City vs. Nissan Almera

Comparatively, the Honda City and Nissan Almera offer different value propositions. While the City and Almera have competitive starting prices, the Almera is known for its spacious interior. However, the City boasts advanced tech features like wireless connectivity, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing connectivity and modern amenities.

Verdict

The Honda City offers a compelling package with its updated design, improved safety features, and efficient powertrains. Its competitive pricing makes it an attractive choice in its segment. However, potential buyers should consider factors like personal preferences, budget, and specific requirements before making a final decision.

Is the 2023 Honda City worth buying?

Yes, the 2023 Honda City is worth buying due to its updated design, advanced safety features, and competitive pricing. It offers a well-rounded package for those seeking a reliable and efficient compact sedan, making it a solid choice in its segment.