Spotting the difference: Old vs. new Honda City

New City

Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated (HCPI) unveiled the new City sedan not too long ago. Its arrival brought notable updates to the car’s exterior and interior.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • What powers the new Honda City?

    The new Honda City is powered by a 1.5-liter engine mated to a continously variable transmission (CVT).
  • What are the transmission options offered by the old Honda City?

    Aside from a CVT, the old Honda City was also offered with a six-speed manual transmission.
  • On that note, here are some of the differences between the old and the new Honda City.

    Exterior

    At a glance, the new Honda City looks more aggressive than its predecessor.

    For example, the front radiator grille of the range-topping RS variant — which dropped its honeycomb design for a mesh-type pattern — boasts larger holes. On each of its sides are new headlamps, daytime running lights, and fog lamps.

    new city rshonda city rs

    Its lower front bumper is finished with a carbon fiber design.

    Not much has changed on its side profile, but it now rides on 16-inch wheels with a darker design that the outgoing model.

    new city rs 4honda city rs 1

    The rear of the new Honda City’s RS grade has a new diffuser that sort of makes it look like a two-part component. Also, the reflectors that used to flank the back part of the sedan are now positioned on the said diffuser.

    In comparison, the old Honda City RS bears a lot of similarities with its successor although the aforementioned changes subtly give the city car more character.

    Interior

    Inside, the top-of-the-line model of the new Honda City has a noticeably more premium finish. In particular, the seats offer a more supple feel and a more comfortable experience. Likewise, the material used appears to be an upgrade from the old model.

    new city rs 6

    Body-colored accents that line the car’s dashboard and window panels are also obvious and give the cabin of the new Honda City RS a slight look of luxury.

    The new Honda City packs a 4.2-inch instrument cluster and an eight-inch infotainment system.

    new city rs 8 new city rs 9

    As for the old Honda City, its air condition vents are surrounded by chrome accents whereas the new City — like in the RS variant — is complemented with a piano black finish.

    honda city interior

    Overall, the old Honda City’s interior comes with details that will provide the new Honda City’s would-be owners a more refined cabin for both short and long trips.

    Engine

    The engine on both the new and old Honda City models are the same. On that note, those looking to drive home the new City can expect a familiar feeling when driving the new model in terms of power.

    That said, the new Honda City makes as much as 119 horsepower. The old one was able to pull off a similar figure in terms of power.

    However, the new Honda City is only available with a continuously variable transmission whereas the old City was available with a six-speed manual gearbox.

    Conclusion

    The latest iteration of the Honda City is perfect for car buyers looking for a modern-looking ride with a character that can match theirs. The subtle but head-turning updates to the car’s interior and exterior are great touches that might get some car owners thinking about upgrading.

    new honda city rs

    Nevertheless, those who care more about a car’s engine, as well as its power and fuel efficiency figures, might stick to the older model as it has the same powerplant and allows its owners to drive stick and feel more one with the machine.

    Photos from Ruben Manahan IV, Juan Paulo Papa, and Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated

    Also read: 

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