Golden Journey of Honda City (1981-2011)
The world’s second largest automobile manufacturer, Honda Motors is the first auto brand that had introduced the dedicated luxury car in the Indian market and has the fascinating array of cars from different segments including the most successful Honda City. The glorious journey of Honda City begun in 1981, afterwards it has gone through several transformation phases. However, formally it had been designed especially for the European, Japanese and Australasian markets but posted the flag of success in overseas as well including Indian market.
Originally, it was a subcompact three-door sedan, later it was replaced by the Honda GA1 series in 1986. The first generation Honda City was available in two variants: two door convertible and three door hatchback/van. Graced with 1, 231 cc ERI4 turbo engines it was able to generate 81kw (105HP) power. In 1989, Honda City again buzzed the marketplace with some significant up-gradation with new ‘Fit’ sub fix as a trim variant heading towards the second generation. There was no convertible & cabriolet model. The City GA2 (generation second) model was discontinued in 1994 and restarted in 1996.
The face-l ifted third generation Honda City was also named as ‘Honda City Z’ (SZ8 codename), launched in two variants with different catchphrases, the “Smart for the new generation” – 1.3 litre engine & “Top-in-class smart” – 1.5 litre engine. At that point of time company was more focused to cover the developing Asian market including India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Malaysia. It was the compact four-door sedan that had been equipped with fuel injected SOHC 16 valve D-series engines (D13B & D15B). This model promised to offer top speed of 106mph (171 km/h) and 0-100km/h in 11.3 seconds. There was a rear stabilizer for better handling of the car with good-looking taillights, headlights, sporty suspension, one-piece bumpers and other eye pleasing features.
The fourth generation Honda City made its debut at the International Motor Expo 2002 in month of November, Thailand with the nameplate of ‘Fit Saloon’. It was an attention-grabber for the people looking for extravagant luxury, comfort yet price friendly vehicle. In Indian automotive market it famed with name of ‘Honda City ZX’, it came blessed with two engine variants i-DSI & VTEC. There were plenty of modifications including new fog lights, headlamps, taillights, front grille, bumpers, electronically foldable side mirror and lots more.
Stepping ahead in its journey, the fifth generation Honda City was appeared on 25th September 2008 in Indian market including some other European countries. This shinning gem is available in four variants including E, S, V and VAT (automatic). It’s a dream car for the passion, power and elegance loving crowd. Having powered with 1.5 i-VTEC engine coupled by 5 speed automatic transmission it churns maximum power of 118PS at 600rpm and a peak torque of 146Nm at 4600rpm.
The futuristic arrowshot from design makes it most attractive in its class. Fifth generation Honda City features rich, stunning interior, advanced safety features and braking system which gives it the new heights of comfort and lavishness The offered performance, excellence and eye-appealing makes it a real delicious cake with rich cream.
On customer’s priorities and feedbacks company has made some changes to its E variant, particularly the interior and cost. Honda City 1.5 iVETC is an award winning car that has been honoured by the most prestigious ‘Indian Car of the Year 2009’, ‘UTi Viewers Choice Car of the Year (2009), CNBC TV 18 Overdrive Car of the Year Award, BS Motoring Car of the Year 2009 Award and many more.
Honda City is one among the most succes sful stories of the company, which is dominating the premium midsized sedan segment for about a decade. Recently, company surprised its dealers and buyers by announcing its new price list without making any alteration to the technical sophistications, quality and performance. The new Honda City is available with the price tag of Rs.6.99 lakh.
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