This petrol car combines autonomous tech with classic styling

The Essentials

• Honda’s latest sedan introduces a comprehensive camera-based driver assistance suite alongside a strong hybrid powertrain option to the executive segment.
• The range starts at ₹11,99,900, offering a choice between a standard 1.5-litre petrol engine and an e:HEV hybrid variant generating 253 Nm of torque.
• Commuters get semi-automated braking and lane keeping features that directly reduce driving fatigue during long highway journeys.

The Pulse

The biggest talking point here is the inclusion of the Honda Sensing advanced driver assistance system. Instead of relying on expensive radar setups, the Japanese carmaker utilises a high-performance front camera to run features like Collision Mitigation Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist. It is a practical approach to active safety that works directly to protect you on chaotic Indian arterial roads.

How fuel efficient is the new Honda City? The standard manual transmission variant delivers a certified 17.77 km/l, while the seven-speed CVT automatic returns 18.40 km/l. However, opting for the premium e:HEV strong hybrid variant pushes the efficiency boundary significantly higher, yielding a certified mileage of 27.26 km/l.

The cabin design follows a clean layout that prioritises outward visibility to lower driving anxiety in tight spots. You get a 20.3 cm touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside a multi-angle rear camera and a passenger-side blind spot feed that pops up on the main screen whenever you indicate left.

The Snapshot

The Big Picture

While premium hatchbacks and compact SUVs dominate current sales charts, the traditional sedan segment remains fiercely competitive. This vehicle goes head-to-head with the Hyundai Verna, which also places a massive emphasis on digital screens and safety tech. Honda is banking on its mechanical reliability and the clever use of camera-only automation to maintain its grip on the executive space.

The India Prospective

The inclusion of a PM2.5 cabin air filter is a direct nod to the worsening air quality indexes across major Indian metros. Furthermore, the inclusion of physical AC dials with clear click-feel feedback ensures you can adjust the climate control without taking your eyes off pothole-ridden roads, a major usability advantage over the touch-only panels favoured by many modern rivals.

The Inside Intel

The sharp shoulder character line running seamlessly along the side profile was directly inspired by the curves of a traditional Japanese Katana sword used by ancient samurai. This specific design choice is engineered to visually extend the side profile of the vehicle, giving the hood a longer appearance and establishing a more aerodynamic and precise stance on the road.

The UDHQ. Take

Unbox Daily HQ. believes this remains the definitive choice for professionals who value mechanical purity but want modern safety nets. If you spend hours on multi-lane highways or external ring roads, the driver assistance features justify the premium over entry-level compact crossovers. The combination of a massive 506-litre boot and reliable driving dynamics makes it an incredibly sensible purchase for long-term ownership.

Best for: A corporate professional with a small family who prefers the stability of a low-slung sedan over a high-riding crossover.

Who Is This For: Perfect for 30 to 45 year old daily commuters in chaotic metros who require validated active safety features during their highway travels.

The Checkout

Honda City – India Page

The Source

Honda Cars India