Honda City
Encyclopedia
The Honda City is a subcompact car
manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer Honda
since 1981. Originally made for the Japanese, European and Australasian markets, the City was retired without replacement in 1994. The nameplate was then revived for use on a series of compact four door sedans particularly aimed at developing markets, mainly sold in Asia outside of Japan but lately also in Latin America and Australia.
From 2002 to 2008, the City was sold as the Honda Fit Aria in Japan at Honda Clio locations. The word "aria
" is a type of expressive melody, usually heard in opera
. Honda chose the word, continuing its musical naming tradition used with Honda Civic derived sedans and 5-door hatchbacks sold previously in Japan, called the Honda Ballade
, the Honda Quintet, and the Honda Concerto
, which preceded the Fit Aria. It is a subcompact sedan built on Honda's Global Small Car platform, which it shares with the Fit/Jazz
(a five-door hatchback
), the Airwave/Partner
(a wagon
/panel van
version of the Fit Aria/City), the Mobilio
, and the Mobilio Spike
—all of which share the location of the fuel tank under the front seats rather than rear seats. By mid-2009, cumulative sales of the City has exceeded 1.2 million units in over 45 countries around the world since the nameplate was revived in 1996.
In 2011, the City is sold as Honda Ballade in South Africa.
by 383 millimetres (15.1 in), but shorter than the Honda Civic
first generation by 171 millimetres (6.7 in).
In September 1982 a turbocharged version of the 1231 cc Honda ER engine was introduced. A Pininfarina
designed drop-top Cabriolet utilized the wider fenders and bigger bumpers of the Turbo II "Bulldog", but was only normally available with the naturally aspirated 67 PS engine. There was also a Pro-series of van versions with either two or four seats. A high-roof "R Manhattan Roof" version with a 10 cm taller roof also appeared.
Exports of the City were primarily to Europe (where it was renamed Honda Jazz
, due to Opel
having trademarked the City name), Australia (in two seater 'van' form, to circumvent Australian import restrictions on passenger vehicles at the time) and New Zealand (where it was locally assembled). Production ended in late 1986 with the introduction of the GA type City.
Honda replaced the original City in 1986 (designated GA1), with an update in 1989 (GA2). This model was produced until 1994. The Fit name also first appeared as a trim variant of the City. There was no convertible model. In most European markets, the City's market position was left open until filled by the Honda Logo
in 1999.
, Thailand, in April 1996. From the beginning, these Thai Citys had more than 70% local content. The bumpers were constructed in three separate pieces to allow for easier shipping from Japan. There were originally a lower grade LXi and a higher-spec EXi available. This generation vehicle was sold in Japan alongside the Honda Domani
at Honda Clio dealerships in Japan.
This City is still a subcompact slotting beneath the Honda Civic
, but a four-door sedan model instead for developing markets in Asia, and was built in Pakistan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and India. A revised, face-lifted
third-generation City was released in 2000, called the "City type Z" in some markets. By 2001 a model powered by Honda's 1.5 liter VTEC
engines (VTi) appeared, featuring a rear-stabilizer for better handling. The facelift model received new front- and taillights, as well as one-piece bumpers.
The third generation city had fuel injected SOHC 16-valve D-series engines, namely variations of the D13B and D15B. The original 1343 cc D13B produced 95 PS at 6,400 rpm for a claimed top speed of 171 km/h (106 mph) and 0–100 km/h in 11.3 seconds. This was later complemented by the 1.5 litre D15B, which was reduced in power for the Asian markets where the car was sold, but had a power-to-weight ratio superior to the competition nonetheless. The D15B engine also arrived in a version featuring VTEC
, with an output of 115 PS. The VTEC-engined City has a 0–100 km/h time of around 10 seconds.
The car had a sporty suspension set-up. In many of its intended markets it was one of very few sub-compacts with fully independent rear suspension (dropped in the later models due to its high cost) which allowed for greater feedback and enhanced handling.
version. It was imported from Thailand and launched as Fit Aria in Japan domestic market from December 20, 2002. In the People's Republic of China, the model got the name Fit Saloon and was sold from September 2003 to the December 2008.
The Honda City was initially launched with a twin-spark, lean burn ‘i-DSI’ engine producing 88ps that was primarily designed to provide outstanding fuel economy. The VTEC
version of the Honda city is launched later. The VTEC
trim of the Honda city is offered with 15 inch alloy rims compared to the 14 inch offered in the i-DSI. The rear brakes are solid discs instead of drums in the i-DSI.
In September 2005, a face-lifted version of the City was launched in Thailand
, Malaysia in October 2005, and Indonesia
in November 2005; it is known as the City ZX in Thailand, India, the New City in Indonesia and Malaysia, and City in Singapore and Pakistan. The most significant changes are a new exterior (new front grille
, new headlamps, new fog lights, new taillights and bumpers). The front end has been extended forward by 65 mm (2.6 in) while the rear has been extended by 15 mm (0.590551181102362 in). The side mirror is electronically foldable. Both the i-DSI and VTEC
trim levels have 15 inches (381 mm) alloy
wheels as standard equipment. Interior changes are minor but it does include an armrest for the driver and additional map lights. The interior colour tone of the VTEC variant is now black.
The L-series
engine remained but the intake manifold has been modified, resulting in a 10% temperature drop in the intake air temperature (IAT), the suspension
has been upgraded as well.
Honda City in India, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Pakistan, Singapore and Malaysia uses the CVT
gearbox for both i-DSI and VTEC variants. The CVT gearbox simulates a 7-Speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic style override using paddle shift buttons. This is very rare for a subcompact
of its class.
This model also saw limited availability in certain RHD markets outside Asia
such as Egypt
and GCC countries.
Guangzhou Honda
started selling the Honda City in China from 12 December 2008 onwards. Unlike other markets where the largest engine option is a 1.5 liter, the Chinese market Honda City will have an R18A 1.8 liter engine option.
Guangzhou Honda
is also developing a Honda Civic-sized sedan based on the Honda City chassis for the Chinese market. It will have a new name and a new shape but will use the City's underpinings and a R18 1.8 litre engine. This new car will compete against Dongfeng Honda's Civic and FAW Toyota's Corolla.
The Thai market Honda City comes in three variants – S model, V Model and SV model. The Indonesian market was offered with two trims, the lower-spec S and the higher-spec E with reclining seats. Both are powered by a 1.5 engine putting out 120 PS, and both are available in manual and automatic transmissions.
Honda launched the new City in the Philippines on 7 January 2009 with four variants; the 1.3 A with manual transmission, 1.3 S with manual and automatic transmissions and the 1.5 E, whose automatic gearbox is equipped with paddle shifts that promotes a more sporty driving experience. All variants are now equipped with a SOHC, 16-valve i-VTEC L-series engines, creating an all-i-VTEC roster for Honda Cars in 2009. The Thai built model will also be sold in South Africa as the "NEW" Ballade, to fit below the Civic and above the Jazz (Fit) sold there.
It was launched in Malaysia on 18 December 2008. It is scheduled to arrive in Singapore by the end of September. Honda launched the new City in Pakistan on 31 January 2009. It is being produced at the Honda plant in Lahore and is available in two variants; 5 speed automatic and 5 speed manual. Both models feature the 1.3 liter i-VTEC engine, producing 73 kW at 6,000 rpm.
In February 2009, Honda Australia have released the Thai-made City into the Australian market in two 1.5 litre variants (VTi and VTi-L). According to Honda Australia's boss, Yasuhide Mizuno, the City will compete with other light sedans such as the Japanese built Toyota Yaris
, the Korean-made Holden Barina
and the Nissan Tiida
(also Thai). This will be the first City released in Australia since the 1980s. It replaces the formerly smaller-sized Civics.
In July 2009, the City was for the first time to be built and marketed (in large numbers) outside Asia, with production in Sumaré, Brazil. The car was available for sale in the Brazilian market first, with exports to Mexico and other markets in Latin America beginning from September 2009. For 2011, there are four trim options (DX, LX, EX and EXL), all of them with the i-VTEC 1.5-liter flex-fuel engine that is shared with the Brazilian Fit. The power output is 115 hp with petrol and 116 hp using ethanol
. Manual and automatic gearboxes are available.
This Honda City is also available in India with the engine of the 1.5 i-VTEC. This car is available in four variants, namely E, S, V, and the V AT (automatic). The E variant was launched recently based on customer feedback asking for changes to the interior colour and the cost. Since it was launched in November 2008, Honda City became the best selling model of the company in the country, with sales volume even surpassing that of Thailand, previously the best selling market for the City. There are also two accessories packages, Elegance and Inspire. In India Honda City has been awarded as the "Car of the Year".
About It is reported that Honda City has been the leader in the premium mid-sized sedan segment for a decade, with 35% market share in 2010.
The Honda City is sold in México with the same 1.5 litre four cylinder engine. It is sold in two trims: LX and EX both available with either an automatic or manual transmission.
Since March 2011, with the opening of a new factory, the Honda City also began to be manufactured in Argentina. It is the first car built by Honda in Argentina (and the first Japanese passenger car made in Argentina) and will be exported to the all countries of South America alongside with Citys built in the Brazilian Sumaré plant.
It is sold as the Honda Ballade in South Africa from March 2011.
Facelift
In September 22nd, 2011, Honda Automobile (Thailand) Ltd are reveal the revamped Honda City, with new front grille design that change to glossy style, new front and rear bumpers, new taillamps design, new cloth fabric, small chromium decoration for interior, new meter design that change from orange in old models to blue in new models, new alloy wheels, eco driving indicator, dual front airbags to every models lineup and new 2 color Carnalion Red metallic and Sparking brown metallic
Available in 3 lineup, S are the low-end models, available in manual or automatic, have a power equipment (windows, locking and mirrors), USB radio, keyless entry, steel wheel cover, ABS and dual front airbags ; V, available with added of audio switch control, vanity mirror for driver and passenger, alloy wheels, auto door lock and top model ; SV ; available with electric retractable mirrors with side repeater lamps, electro-chromic rear mirror, height adjustable rear headrest, split fold seat, rear armrest with cup holder, tweeter speaker, 16" alloy wheels and exclusively in class of reclining rear seat
Honda City Models in India
HONDA CARS Philippines Inc. announced a voluntary safety recall of Jazz and City, explaining that small engine components in the models could create problems and stall their engine. Four pieces of the lost-motion-spring retainers had to be in the cylinder head of the 1.5-liter Honda Jazz(distributed from September 2008 to April 2010) and the 1.5 liter Honda City(distributed from January 2009 to April 2010) had to be replaced right away.The Honda Jazz subject of recall was imported from Thailand while the City is a complete knock-down unit assembled in the Philippines
. The recall targets 5,468 units of both distributed at the time. Also, no crashes or injuries were reported.
appeared in a Japanese TV ad campaign for the Honda City. The jingle was written by the entire band, which also appeared in the TV ad, doing its famous "nutty walk". The band apparently liked the jingle so much that they expanded it into a three minute pop song and released it as a b-side (B/W "Cardiac Arrest
") that reached #14 in the UK charts. It was also included on Complete Madness
, the band's best-selling greatest hits compilation from 1982. The track version of "In The City" replaced the repeated brand name "Honda Honda Honda..." with the more generic "doomba doomba doomba". The TV advertisements were included (though not listed) on the Divine Madness
VHS video in 1992.
In 1996-7, 3rd generation Honda City are advertised with 1.3-liter launch in Thailand, and famous advertisement in 1.5-liter version launch that presenter are on airplane and talks about safety and comfort in Honda City that broadcast in Thailand
In 2002, Honda City are teased in TV before Thailand International Motor Expo 2002, where that it's world premiere launch
In 2008, Current generation are also get teased on television with red arrow, the launch TV out with slogan "All-new City, Always ahead."
Subcompact car
Subcompact car is a North American term used to describe automobiles whose class size is smaller than that of a compact car, usually not exceeding in length, but larger than a microcar...
manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer Honda
Honda
is a Japanese public multinational corporation primarily known as a manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles.Honda has been the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer since 1959, as well as the world's largest manufacturer of internal combustion engines measured by volume, producing more than...
since 1981. Originally made for the Japanese, European and Australasian markets, the City was retired without replacement in 1994. The nameplate was then revived for use on a series of compact four door sedans particularly aimed at developing markets, mainly sold in Asia outside of Japan but lately also in Latin America and Australia.
From 2002 to 2008, the City was sold as the Honda Fit Aria in Japan at Honda Clio locations. The word "aria
Aria
An aria in music was originally any expressive melody, usually, but not always, performed by a singer. The term is now used almost exclusively to describe a self-contained piece for one voice usually with orchestral accompaniment...
" is a type of expressive melody, usually heard in opera
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
. Honda chose the word, continuing its musical naming tradition used with Honda Civic derived sedans and 5-door hatchbacks sold previously in Japan, called the Honda Ballade
Honda Ballade
The Honda Ballade was a subcompact automobile built by Honda of Japan. It began as a four-door version of the Civic in 1980. The Ballade was developed at the same time the Honda Vigor appeared, which was a higher content Honda Accord...
, the Honda Quintet, and the Honda Concerto
Honda Concerto
The Honda Concerto was an automobile produced by Honda from 1988 to 1994. Like its predecessor, the Honda Quint and Honda Ballade sedan , it shared its platform with a Rover product, namely the Rover 200 and Rover 400...
, which preceded the Fit Aria. It is a subcompact sedan built on Honda's Global Small Car platform, which it shares with the Fit/Jazz
Honda Fit
The Honda Jazz is a five-door hatchback subcompact manufactured by the Honda Motor Company of Japan, first introduced in June 2001 and is now in its second generation. The Jazz shares Honda's Global Small Car Platform with the City/Fit Aria, Airwave/Partner, Mobilio, Mobilio Spike, Freed and Freed...
(a five-door hatchback
Hatchback
A Hatchback is a car body style incorporating a shared passenger and cargo volume, with rearmost accessibility via a rear third or fifth door, typically a top-hinged liftgate—and features such as fold-down rear seats to enable flexibility within the shared passenger/cargo volume. As a two-box...
), the Airwave/Partner
Honda Airwave
The Honda Airwave is a subcompact car produced by the Japanese automaker Honda since 2005. It is a five-door station wagon version of the City / Fit Aria and Fit/Jazz, which are a sedan and a hatchback respectively. The Airwave is built on the Global Small Car platform; however, unlike the City and...
(a wagon
Wagon
A wagon is a heavy four-wheeled vehicle pulled by draught animals; it was formerly often called a wain, and if low and sideless may be called a dray, trolley or float....
/panel van
Panel van
A panel van is a form of solid van, smaller than a lorry or truck, without rear side windows...
version of the Fit Aria/City), the Mobilio
Honda Mobilio
The Honda Mobilio was a seven-seater mini MPV produced by Japanese automaker Honda for its domestic market from 2001 to 2008. It was the second in Honda's Small Max series. It also took Honda's Global Small Platform and their i-DSI engine. Among its features were sliding doors that could open for...
, and the Mobilio Spike
Honda mobilio spike
The Honda Mobilio Spike was a 1.5L compact-wagon that was designed with recreational activities in mind. The Mobilio Spike was released in Japan on September 19, 2002 and was Honda’s third model in the Small Max series. The Mobilio, according to Honda, attained the highest fuel rating in the...
—all of which share the location of the fuel tank under the front seats rather than rear seats. By mid-2009, cumulative sales of the City has exceeded 1.2 million units in over 45 countries around the world since the nameplate was revived in 1996.
In 2011, the City is sold as Honda Ballade in South Africa.
First generation (1981–1986)
The first Honda City (AA for sedans, VF for vans and FA for the wider Turbo II and Cabriolets) was introduced in November 1981 with the innovative "Tallboy" design; of unusual height it enabled four adults to fit comfortably in the very short City (under 3.4 m (11.2 ft)). Produced as a 3-door hatchback in a variety of trim levels, the City was also available together with the Motocompo, a special 50cc 'foldaway' scooter designed to fit in the City's small luggage area. It was longer than the Honda N360Honda N360
The Honda N360 is a kei car, designed and built by Honda and produced from March 1967 through 1970, while its larger N600 brother lasted three more years. After a January 1970 facelift, the N360 became the NIII360 and continued in production until 1972...
by 383 millimetres (15.1 in), but shorter than the Honda Civic
Honda Civic (first generation)
Honda began selling the 1169 cc transversely mounted inline four-cylinder Civic for about US$2,200. The car produced roughly 50 hp and included power front disc brakes, vinyl seating, reclining bucket seats, and a woodgrain-accented dashboard. The hatchback version added a fold-down...
first generation by 171 millimetres (6.7 in).
In September 1982 a turbocharged version of the 1231 cc Honda ER engine was introduced. A Pininfarina
Pininfarina
Pininfarina S.p.A. is an Italian car design firm and coachbuilder in Cambiano, Italy.Founded as Società anonima Carrozzeria Pinin Farina in 1930 by automobile designer and builder Battista "Pinin" Farina, Pininfarina has been employed by a wide variety of high-end automobile manufacturers,...
designed drop-top Cabriolet utilized the wider fenders and bigger bumpers of the Turbo II "Bulldog", but was only normally available with the naturally aspirated 67 PS engine. There was also a Pro-series of van versions with either two or four seats. A high-roof "R Manhattan Roof" version with a 10 cm taller roof also appeared.
Exports of the City were primarily to Europe (where it was renamed Honda Jazz
Honda Jazz
The Honda Jazz nameplate has been used by Honda of Japan to denote several different motorized vehicles since 1982:*A 50 cc motorcycle introduced in 1986. Such a scooter still exists, and is currently on sale in Canada...
, due to Opel
Opel
Adam Opel AG, generally shortened to Opel, is a German automobile company founded by Adam Opel in 1862. Opel has been building automobiles since 1899, and became an Aktiengesellschaft in 1929...
having trademarked the City name), Australia (in two seater 'van' form, to circumvent Australian import restrictions on passenger vehicles at the time) and New Zealand (where it was locally assembled). Production ended in late 1986 with the introduction of the GA type City.
Second generation (1986–1994)
Honda Logo
The Honda Logo series GA3 and GA5 is a supermini produced by the Japanese automaker Honda between 1996 and 2001. The Logo was available as a three-door and five-door hatchback. It was sold in the United Kingdom from 2000 until 2001. It was a platform mate to the Honda Capa and replaced the Honda...
in 1999.
Third generation (1996–2002)
The third generation Honda City, codenamed SX8 but with chassis codes 3A2 (1.3) and 3A3 (1.5), was based on the EF Civic platform. It was designed for and sold in the South East Asian market only, launch with slogan "Smart for the new generation" in 1.3-liter version launch, 1.5-liter version are launch with "Top-in-class smart" slogan . First production began in an all-new plant in AyutthayaAyutthaya (city)
Ayutthaya city is the capital of Ayutthaya province in Thailand. Located in the valley of the Chao Phraya River. The city was founded in 1350 by King U Thong, who went there to escape a smallpox outbreak in Lop Buri and proclaimed it the capital of his kingdom, often referred to as the Ayutthaya...
, Thailand, in April 1996. From the beginning, these Thai Citys had more than 70% local content. The bumpers were constructed in three separate pieces to allow for easier shipping from Japan. There were originally a lower grade LXi and a higher-spec EXi available. This generation vehicle was sold in Japan alongside the Honda Domani
Honda Domani
The is a car made by Honda and marketed in east Asia, including Japan. It was introduced in November 1992, replacing the Concerto in Honda's lineup, although that model lasted until 1995 in Europe...
at Honda Clio dealerships in Japan.
This City is still a subcompact slotting beneath the Honda Civic
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a line of subcompact and subsequently compact cars made and manufactured by Honda. The Civic, along with the Accord and Prelude, comprised Honda's vehicles sold in North America until the 1990s, when the model lineup was expanded...
, but a four-door sedan model instead for developing markets in Asia, and was built in Pakistan, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and India. A revised, face-lifted
Facelift (product)
A facelift is the revival of a product through cosmetic means, for example by changing its appearance while leaving its underlying engineering or design intact....
third-generation City was released in 2000, called the "City type Z" in some markets. By 2001 a model powered by Honda's 1.5 liter VTEC
VTEC
VTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
engines (VTi) appeared, featuring a rear-stabilizer for better handling. The facelift model received new front- and taillights, as well as one-piece bumpers.
The third generation city had fuel injected SOHC 16-valve D-series engines, namely variations of the D13B and D15B. The original 1343 cc D13B produced 95 PS at 6,400 rpm for a claimed top speed of 171 km/h (106 mph) and 0–100 km/h in 11.3 seconds. This was later complemented by the 1.5 litre D15B, which was reduced in power for the Asian markets where the car was sold, but had a power-to-weight ratio superior to the competition nonetheless. The D15B engine also arrived in a version featuring VTEC
VTEC
VTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
, with an output of 115 PS. The VTEC-engined City has a 0–100 km/h time of around 10 seconds.
The car had a sporty suspension set-up. In many of its intended markets it was one of very few sub-compacts with fully independent rear suspension (dropped in the later models due to its high cost) which allowed for greater feedback and enhanced handling.
Fourth generation (2002–2008)
At the Thailand International Motor Expo 2002 in November 2002, the fourth generation City made its world debut, now also offered as a four-wheel driveFour-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, 4WD, or 4×4 is a four-wheeled vehicle with a drivetrain that allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultaneously...
version. It was imported from Thailand and launched as Fit Aria in Japan domestic market from December 20, 2002. In the People's Republic of China, the model got the name Fit Saloon and was sold from September 2003 to the December 2008.
The Honda City was initially launched with a twin-spark, lean burn ‘i-DSI’ engine producing 88ps that was primarily designed to provide outstanding fuel economy. The VTEC
VTEC
VTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
version of the Honda city is launched later. The VTEC
VTEC
VTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
trim of the Honda city is offered with 15 inch alloy rims compared to the 14 inch offered in the i-DSI. The rear brakes are solid discs instead of drums in the i-DSI.
In September 2005, a face-lifted version of the City was launched in Thailand
Thailand
Thailand , officially the Kingdom of Thailand , formerly known as Siam , is a country located at the centre of the Indochina peninsula and Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the...
, Malaysia in October 2005, and Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia , officially the Republic of Indonesia , is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania. Indonesia is an archipelago comprising approximately 13,000 islands. It has 33 provinces with over 238 million people, and is the world's fourth most populous country. Indonesia is a republic, with an...
in November 2005; it is known as the City ZX in Thailand, India, the New City in Indonesia and Malaysia, and City in Singapore and Pakistan. The most significant changes are a new exterior (new front grille
Grille
A grille or grill is an opening of several slits side by side in a wall or metal sheet or other barrier, usually to let air or water enter and/or leave but keep larger objects including people and animals in or out.-Spelling:In the United States, "grille" is used to differentiate the automotive...
, new headlamps, new fog lights, new taillights and bumpers). The front end has been extended forward by 65 mm (2.6 in) while the rear has been extended by 15 mm (0.590551181102362 in). The side mirror is electronically foldable. Both the i-DSI and VTEC
VTEC
VTEC is a valvetrain system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine. The VTEC system uses two camshaft profiles and electronically selects between the profiles. It was invented by Honda R&D engineer Ikuo Kajitani, and was the first system...
trim levels have 15 inches (381 mm) alloy
Alloy
An alloy is a mixture or metallic solid solution composed of two or more elements. Complete solid solution alloys give single solid phase microstructure, while partial solutions give two or more phases that may or may not be homogeneous in distribution, depending on thermal history...
wheels as standard equipment. Interior changes are minor but it does include an armrest for the driver and additional map lights. The interior colour tone of the VTEC variant is now black.
The L-series
Honda L engine
The L-series is a 4-cylinder engine created by Honda and introduced in 2001. It has 1.2, 1.3, and 1.5 L displacement variants, which utilize the names L12A, L13A, and L15A. Depending on the region, these engines are sold throughout the world in the 5-door Fit/Jazz hatchback and the 4-door Fit...
engine remained but the intake manifold has been modified, resulting in a 10% temperature drop in the intake air temperature (IAT), the suspension
Suspension (vehicle)
Suspension is the term given to the system of springs, shock absorbers and linkages that connects a vehicle to its wheels. Suspension systems serve a dual purpose — contributing to the car's roadholding/handling and braking for good active safety and driving pleasure, and keeping vehicle occupants...
has been upgraded as well.
Honda City in India, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Pakistan, Singapore and Malaysia uses the CVT
Continuously variable transmission
A continuously variable transmission is a transmission that can change steplessly through an infinite number of effective gear ratios between maximum and minimum values. This contrasts with other mechanical transmissions that offer a fixed number of gear ratios...
gearbox for both i-DSI and VTEC variants. The CVT gearbox simulates a 7-Speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic style override using paddle shift buttons. This is very rare for a subcompact
Subcompact car
Subcompact car is a North American term used to describe automobiles whose class size is smaller than that of a compact car, usually not exceeding in length, but larger than a microcar...
of its class.
This model also saw limited availability in certain RHD markets outside Asia
Asia
Asia is the world's largest and most populous continent, located primarily in the eastern and northern hemispheres. It covers 8.7% of the Earth's total surface area and with approximately 3.879 billion people, it hosts 60% of the world's current human population...
such as Egypt
Egypt
Egypt , officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, Arabic: , is a country mainly in North Africa, with the Sinai Peninsula forming a land bridge in Southwest Asia. Egypt is thus a transcontinental country, and a major power in Africa, the Mediterranean Basin, the Middle East and the Muslim world...
and GCC countries.
Fifth generation (2008–present)
The new Honda City was unveiled in Bangkok, Thailand at Siam Paragon on 10 September 2008 followed by New Delhi, India on 25 September 2008 and January 2009 in Pakistan and Indonesia. Honda also announced that the City will be offered in selected European countries with a 1.4 liter i-VTEC engine mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed i-SHIFT automated manual transmission. Poland is among the first European countries to receive the new City.Guangzhou Honda
Guangzhou Automobile Industry Group
Guangzhou Automobile Group Co Ltd , is a Chinese automobile maker and a subsidiary of Guangzhou Automobile Industry Group, a holding company....
started selling the Honda City in China from 12 December 2008 onwards. Unlike other markets where the largest engine option is a 1.5 liter, the Chinese market Honda City will have an R18A 1.8 liter engine option.
Guangzhou Honda
Guangzhou Automobile Industry Group
Guangzhou Automobile Group Co Ltd , is a Chinese automobile maker and a subsidiary of Guangzhou Automobile Industry Group, a holding company....
is also developing a Honda Civic-sized sedan based on the Honda City chassis for the Chinese market. It will have a new name and a new shape but will use the City's underpinings and a R18 1.8 litre engine. This new car will compete against Dongfeng Honda's Civic and FAW Toyota's Corolla.
The Thai market Honda City comes in three variants – S model, V Model and SV model. The Indonesian market was offered with two trims, the lower-spec S and the higher-spec E with reclining seats. Both are powered by a 1.5 engine putting out 120 PS, and both are available in manual and automatic transmissions.
Honda launched the new City in the Philippines on 7 January 2009 with four variants; the 1.3 A with manual transmission, 1.3 S with manual and automatic transmissions and the 1.5 E, whose automatic gearbox is equipped with paddle shifts that promotes a more sporty driving experience. All variants are now equipped with a SOHC, 16-valve i-VTEC L-series engines, creating an all-i-VTEC roster for Honda Cars in 2009. The Thai built model will also be sold in South Africa as the "NEW" Ballade, to fit below the Civic and above the Jazz (Fit) sold there.
It was launched in Malaysia on 18 December 2008. It is scheduled to arrive in Singapore by the end of September. Honda launched the new City in Pakistan on 31 January 2009. It is being produced at the Honda plant in Lahore and is available in two variants; 5 speed automatic and 5 speed manual. Both models feature the 1.3 liter i-VTEC engine, producing 73 kW at 6,000 rpm.
In February 2009, Honda Australia have released the Thai-made City into the Australian market in two 1.5 litre variants (VTi and VTi-L). According to Honda Australia's boss, Yasuhide Mizuno, the City will compete with other light sedans such as the Japanese built Toyota Yaris
Toyota Yaris
The Toyota Yaris is a subcompact car produced by Toyota since 1999. Between 1999 and 2005, some markets received the same vehicles under the Toyota Echo name...
, the Korean-made Holden Barina
Holden Barina
The Holden Barina is a subcompact automobile sold since 1985 by Holden, the Australian arm of General Motors . Each of the five generations have been badge-engineered versions of GM vehicles: Suzuki Cultus, Opel Corsa, and Daewoo Kalos....
and the Nissan Tiida
Nissan Tiida
The Nissan Tiida is a compact car, manufactured by Japanese automaker Nissan, replacing the Pulsar and the Sunny, and marketed also as the Nissan Versa, prominently in the United States...
(also Thai). This will be the first City released in Australia since the 1980s. It replaces the formerly smaller-sized Civics.
In July 2009, the City was for the first time to be built and marketed (in large numbers) outside Asia, with production in Sumaré, Brazil. The car was available for sale in the Brazilian market first, with exports to Mexico and other markets in Latin America beginning from September 2009. For 2011, there are four trim options (DX, LX, EX and EXL), all of them with the i-VTEC 1.5-liter flex-fuel engine that is shared with the Brazilian Fit. The power output is 115 hp with petrol and 116 hp using ethanol
Ethanol
Ethanol, also called ethyl alcohol, pure alcohol, grain alcohol, or drinking alcohol, is a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid. It is a psychoactive drug and one of the oldest recreational drugs. Best known as the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages, it is also used in thermometers, as a...
. Manual and automatic gearboxes are available.
This Honda City is also available in India with the engine of the 1.5 i-VTEC. This car is available in four variants, namely E, S, V, and the V AT (automatic). The E variant was launched recently based on customer feedback asking for changes to the interior colour and the cost. Since it was launched in November 2008, Honda City became the best selling model of the company in the country, with sales volume even surpassing that of Thailand, previously the best selling market for the City. There are also two accessories packages, Elegance and Inspire. In India Honda City has been awarded as the "Car of the Year".
About It is reported that Honda City has been the leader in the premium mid-sized sedan segment for a decade, with 35% market share in 2010.
The Honda City is sold in México with the same 1.5 litre four cylinder engine. It is sold in two trims: LX and EX both available with either an automatic or manual transmission.
Since March 2011, with the opening of a new factory, the Honda City also began to be manufactured in Argentina. It is the first car built by Honda in Argentina (and the first Japanese passenger car made in Argentina) and will be exported to the all countries of South America alongside with Citys built in the Brazilian Sumaré plant.
It is sold as the Honda Ballade in South Africa from March 2011.
Facelift
In September 22nd, 2011, Honda Automobile (Thailand) Ltd are reveal the revamped Honda City, with new front grille design that change to glossy style, new front and rear bumpers, new taillamps design, new cloth fabric, small chromium decoration for interior, new meter design that change from orange in old models to blue in new models, new alloy wheels, eco driving indicator, dual front airbags to every models lineup and new 2 color Carnalion Red metallic and Sparking brown metallic
Available in 3 lineup, S are the low-end models, available in manual or automatic, have a power equipment (windows, locking and mirrors), USB radio, keyless entry, steel wheel cover, ABS and dual front airbags ; V, available with added of audio switch control, vanity mirror for driver and passenger, alloy wheels, auto door lock and top model ; SV ; available with electric retractable mirrors with side repeater lamps, electro-chromic rear mirror, height adjustable rear headrest, split fold seat, rear armrest with cup holder, tweeter speaker, 16" alloy wheels and exclusively in class of reclining rear seat
Honda City Models in India
| Honda City 1.5 E MT | It is the base variant of Honda City. |
| Honda City 1.5 S MT | It comes with some additional features that are Multi Functional Steering Wheel, Rear Cup Holder, Integrated antenna and CD/MP3 audio system with four speakers. |
| Honda City 1.5 V MT | It is the top end variant of Honda City that offers some additional features like Alloy Wheels, Seat Back Pocket, Silver Colored Inner Door Handle, Fog Lamps, Stylish Exhaust Pipe. |
| Honda City 1.5 V AT | All features same as Honda City 1.5 V MT only the difference is that, it comes with automatic transmission gearbox. |
| Honda City V MT Exclusive | This variant is added with leather seats, leather steering, leather gear knob, chrome trunk garnish, Chrome door sash moulding,'Exclusive' rear badge and body coloured mud flaps. |
| Honda City V AT Exclusive | This top end variant sports all the features of the V AT variant and V MT Exclusive features except the leather gear shift knob. |
HONDA CARS Philippines Inc. announced a voluntary safety recall of Jazz and City, explaining that small engine components in the models could create problems and stall their engine. Four pieces of the lost-motion-spring retainers had to be in the cylinder head of the 1.5-liter Honda Jazz(distributed from September 2008 to April 2010) and the 1.5 liter Honda City(distributed from January 2009 to April 2010) had to be replaced right away.The Honda Jazz subject of recall was imported from Thailand while the City is a complete knock-down unit assembled in the Philippines
Philippines
The Philippines , officially known as the Republic of the Philippines , is a country in Southeast Asia in the western Pacific Ocean. To its north across the Luzon Strait lies Taiwan. West across the South China Sea sits Vietnam...
. The recall targets 5,468 units of both distributed at the time. Also, no crashes or injuries were reported.
Advertising
The music group MadnessMadness (band)
In 1979, the band recorded the Lee Thompson composition "The Prince". The song, like the band's name, paid homage to their idol, Prince Buster. The song was released through 2 Tone Records, the label of The Specials founder Jerry Dammers. The song was a surprise hit, peaking in the UK music charts...
appeared in a Japanese TV ad campaign for the Honda City. The jingle was written by the entire band, which also appeared in the TV ad, doing its famous "nutty walk". The band apparently liked the jingle so much that they expanded it into a three minute pop song and released it as a b-side (B/W "Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac Arrest (song)
"Cardiac Arrest" is a song by British band Madness from their third album 7 and other compilation album called Complete Madness . It spent 10 weeks in UK charts peaking at number 14....
") that reached #14 in the UK charts. It was also included on Complete Madness
Complete Madness
Complete Madness is the first greatest hits album by ska/pop group Madness. It was released in 1982 and included Madness' biggest hits from their first three studio albums and all the stand-alone singles. Complete Madness spent 99 weeks on the UK charts peaking at number 1...
, the band's best-selling greatest hits compilation from 1982. The track version of "In The City" replaced the repeated brand name "Honda Honda Honda..." with the more generic "doomba doomba doomba". The TV advertisements were included (though not listed) on the Divine Madness
Divine Madness (Madness album)
Divine Madness is the 1992 greatest hits album from the British ska/pop band Madness. It presents the group's single A-sides in chronological order, though sometimes in their LP rather than single versions....
VHS video in 1992.
In 1996-7, 3rd generation Honda City are advertised with 1.3-liter launch in Thailand, and famous advertisement in 1.5-liter version launch that presenter are on airplane and talks about safety and comfort in Honda City that broadcast in Thailand
In 2002, Honda City are teased in TV before Thailand International Motor Expo 2002, where that it's world premiere launch
In 2008, Current generation are also get teased on television with red arrow, the launch TV out with slogan "All-new City, Always ahead."