Next generation Honda City was recently spotted testing in India, suggesting that the popular C Segment sedan is slated to make its world premiere towards the end of this year. A Malaysian publication has come up with a speculative rendering of the new City based on the spy shots.
The prototype shows that the new model more or less retains its shape in profile but the front and rear fascias have been subjected to significant redesign. The rendering seems to have captured the changes with reasonable accuracy.
Lets start with the rear. The heavily contoured boot lid and split-LED taillights remind us of the Audi A3 sedan but the lighting signature is unique. The pronounced character lines on the sides do render the mid-size sedan a sporty appeal.
The front fascia will comply with Honda’s latest design philosophy which involves an edgy nose with massive chrome element, sleek LED headlamps, LED foglights and razor sharp chin. Overall, the 2020 Honda City would emerge to be more modern and sportier compared to its predecessor.
We expect the interior too to feature brand new design and color theme. It goes without saying that the latest Honda will feature state-of-the-art connectivity and infotainment features.
Underpinned by the improved version of the existing platform, we expect the 2020 City to be slightly larger (so far, the City has gotten bigger with every generation). Of course, a comprehensive safety kit will be standard and the body structure will be strong enough to pass the new BNVSAP (Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program).
Honda India has previously stated that it will upgrade both its petrol and diesel engines to BS-VI standards despite dwindling demand for diesel versions. The City’s existing 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol and i-DTEC diesel motors would be carried forward.
Currently, the petrol motor develops 119 hp and 145 Nm of torque while the oil burner is good for 100 hp and 200 Nm of torque. The petrol engine is available with a 5-MT or a CVT while the diesel engine comes with 6-MT. Honda is likely to introduce a mild-hybrid system with its petrol engine.
The 2020 Honda City will be launched in Thailand first. Launch date as per KeyAuto is Nov 2019. India launch is expected at the 2020 Auto Expo, in Feb 2020.
