SHORT DRIVE: Strong gets stronger
The Honda City is already a class-leader. And for some people, it can now be 100,000 baht cheaper
WHAT'S NEW?
The City _ Honda's best-selling model in Thailand which has seen sales of some 120,000 ever since the third-generation was launched three years ago _ has undergone a facelift.
Like with most other mainstream Japanese car brands, the mid-life update is restricted to only the cosmetic bit including a new front grille, rear lights, bumpers and mag wheels. The interior has also been given a slight visual makeover including new dials and console panel.
Now that Honda has embarked on a new policy of highlighting safety in their Thai-made cars, the City comes with two airbags and anti-lock brakes as standard across the range. One small notable addition in the City is a height adjustment for the driver's seat.
The 120hp 1.5 remains unchanged.
As with most updates, the City's prices have risen marginally by some 10,000-20,000 baht. The minor-change City automatic model comes in three trims ranging from 599,000-704,000 baht, which is basically on par with rivals coming with comparable performance.
The City is also the first new model in Thailand to be eligible for the government's newly launched first-time car buyer policy, meaning that a maximum 100,000 baht tax discount can make the City's prices start at as low as half-a-million baht.
WHAT'S COOL?
Despite the arrival of the Ford Fiesta and Mazda 2 sedans, the City's package remains the most attractive in the B-segment (sub-compact) sector even when taking the Toyota Vios into consideration.
There are class-leading levels of interior space, function and seating comfort in the City, particularly for rear passengers. Unique is rear seats that can recline, with space under them to store small items like a full-length umbrella.
While looks are merely subjective, the new chrome grille and rear lamps substantially help lift the presence of the car on Thai roads.
Lastly, the 120hp 1.5-litre petrol engine of the City gives class-leading performance.
The rear lights have new design...
WHAT'S NOT?
Sparkling may be the City's motor, but it is not without flaws. There's enough torque at low speeds but it begins to fade out in the mid-ranges before picking up at high revs.
To put it another way, overtaking power is sort of lacking unless you provoke the five-speed automatic into kickdown. You can also use the paddle-shifters on the steering wheel to shift down in a more instant fashion.
And while the chassis setup in the City is generally well-balanced in its own right, those seeking for a good steer may find the Fiesta or 2 competitors more satisfying.
BUY OR BYE?
When the City was introduced three years ago, we found it to be a very capable car in its class with well-rounded abilities. It remains the case today even though some shortcomings are now becoming a little pronounced.
However, those flaws are still not big enough to make City punters look elsewhere. It's sufficiently quick, comfortable and good value given its strong brand image in the country. In short, it's still the best car in its class overall.
And with the new car policy now in place for the next 15 months, the City is great value for first-time saloon buyers.
... so do the mag wheels.
Fascia has good clarity of use.
Credit: Bangkok Post (www.bangkokpost.com)
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