The fine folks at Honda Car India sent over the Honda City, in its naturally aspirated CVT avatar. Having grown up with a Honda City in the family — I was no stranger to this car’s charm. The Honda City has always been synonymous with a smooth and rewarding driving experience, and stepping into the latest version felt like reconnecting with an old friend.
The fourth-gen City at home is now approaching its eighth year, and I’ve spent countless hours behind its wheel, getting thoroughly acquainted with its free-revving 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine, effortless drivability, and signature comfort. So, as soon as I slid into the driver’s seat of this new-gen model, there was a strong sense of familiarity — the kind that brings a smile to your face, as if nothing had changed, yet everything had improved.
Over the past few months, I’ve logged nearly 2000 kilometres with this car, and it has only reinforced my admiration for the City’s timeless appeal. The first thing that struck me was how easy it is to drive, even in chaotic city traffic. The CVT transmission is seamless, making daily commutes or long highway stretches feel like a breeze. The 1.5-litre i-VTEC still feels eager to rev, delivering power smoothly and linearly.
Comfort has always been one of the City’s strongest suits, and this model is no different. The spacious cabin, soft suspension, and well-cushioned seats make it feel more premium than many other sedans in its class.
However, as much as I’ve enjoyed my time with the City, there’s a nagging thought that’s been creeping up lately. It has to do with the condition of our roads. In the past few years, the deterioration in road quality, with potholes and uneven surfaces becoming the norm, has started to make me wonder whether an SUV might be a better fit for these conditions. The City, despite its inherent refinement, is still a sedan — and sedans aren’t exactly known for their high ground clearance or rugged suspension setups. While the City handles most imperfections well, there are moments when you wish for that extra bit of height and suspension travel that only an SUV can offer.
That said, I’ve never felt like the Honda City left me wanting more in any major way. It’s practical, comfortable, and reliable — traits that Honda has built its reputation on. The 2000 kilometres I’ve spent with it have only solidified what I’ve known all along: the Honda City is a car that transcends generations, continuing to be an excellent choice for anyone who values comfort and ease of driving.
So, while the lure of an SUV for our rugged roads grows stronger, the Honda City remains a strong contender in its own right — a sedan that’s more than capable of handling the challenges of urban life, with just enough versatility to keep you smiling on the open road.
