The 2020 Honda City has been spied in India for the
very first time. The next-gen model was spotted doing rounds on the public
roads near Ghaziabad (exteriors of New Delhi). The next-gen Honda City's
development took place in Thailand and it has reached India for its local
testing. As seen in the spy shots, it's being tested directly in production
body. Another detail evident is that it will feature an evolutionary design.
While the test mule spotted in Thailand and India
both were completely camouflaged, it can be figured out that the next-gen Honda
City will have fully redesigned bumpers, more aggressive headlamps, Honda
Civic-style radiator grille and a flatter rear-end. It seems like the all-new
model will look bolder and sportier.
The interior design of the current model is barely
at par compared to its chief rival Hyundai Verna. The next-gen model's interior
is yet to be seen. Like several other premium models launched in India
recently, it may pack many connected vehicle technologies. The next-gen Honda City will be
introduced with BS-VI 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol and BS-VI 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel
engines in India. The petrol engine will likely be linked to a standard 5-speed
MT or an optional CVT, while the diesel will be paired with a standard 6-speed
MT or an optional CVT.
Internationally, in addition to the standard
variant, there will be a full-hybrid variant with the i-MMD system comprising a
1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors as well. Whether it will be
offered right from the launch or not is yet to be known. An electrified variant
will be offered in India also, likely from 2021, but whether it will pack the
same, full-hybrid powertrain or a cheaper, mild-hybrid powertrain hasn't been
revealed yet.
The next-gen Honda City could have its world
premiere at Auto Expo 2020 and be launched in India at the same event.
