BACK in the late-1990s, when compact sedans dominated the streets, the third-generation Honda City managed to sneak into the local market as the manufacturer’s four-door subcompact beneath the Civic. It immediately became a popular choice among motorists who prefer vehicles with smaller dimensions for daily use suited for the busy Metro.
Since then, the succeeding generations became even more popular, as more of these subcompacts can be seen on the roads nowadays. It may have been two years since the latest generation was launched but remarkable enhancements kept on coming.
If you prefer smaller in size, yet packed with features that fit your daily grinds around the Metro and weekend out-of-town trips, the City VX+ CVT variant is definitely one to consider. Here are five substantial reasons why.
- Its design is revolutionary. If there’s one word to describe this subcompact’s figure, it is sharp. The striking and sophisticated look of the City is an absolute breakthrough in styling. Angular contours and grooves exude all over the exterior frame. New razor-shape-looking headlamps are aligned with the pronounced and distinctive chrome grille with the
badge. The rear end is also stunning, thanks to the combined spikey taillights united with chrome garnish and sexy rear bumper. Signal lights are also implanted in the side mirrors. Moreover, those fresh set of polished five-spoke, 16-inch alloy wheels with 185/55 series tires complement well with the sharp body profiles. With the smart key, the doors automatically unlock as soon as you grab the handle.
- The cabin is cozy and ergonomic. Whether you’re driving or as a passenger, the impression is certainly relaxed and comfortable. Exclusive to the VX+ edition are the leather-wrapped and well-padded seats comparable to a premium compact sedan. Even the rear 60:40 split-type seats have a center arm rest with cup holder. For a relatively tall driver requiring more space up-front, there’s still enough legroom to offer that will leave occupants equally contented. The dashboard layout is one of the highlights in the interior. There’s an unmistakable elegance coming from the piano finish on the driver section. Here you’ll find the touchscreen panel with audio and connectivity function plus the advanced navigation system with voice
prompts. It’s like having a tablet embedded on your center panel. Likewise, the air-condition controls are not only touch-operated but provides a cool breeze even under extreme humidity. There are more convenient features to appreciate, such as the ignition start/stop button, audio controls in the steering wheel and the soothing eight-speaker sound system.
- Experience comfort in driving. If you’re thinking that the smaller dimension would translate to lesser ride comfort, well think again. This subcompact sedan surprisingly offers the same level of ride coziness versus its superior counterparts. With the tilt/telescopic steering and multiseat adjustments, not only does it makes driving position easy to find, but promotes a more suitable posture.
So expedient that the drive from Alabang, Muntinlupa, to Clark, Pampanga, seemed like a short-distance trip. Even while stuck in urban gridlocks, there is hardly any noise penetrated inside, thanks to the impressive noise, vibration and harshness insulation. Visible through the steering wheel are large and vivid analog gauges with one that displays information, like distance, fuel consumption, and other vital statistics. On the road, the City demonstrated decent handling with easy maneuvering on curves regardless of the road conditions.
- Responsive and fuel-efficient motor. Under the hood is a Euro 4-compliant1.5 liter four-cylinder, chain drive SOHC, i-VTEC petrol engine fitted with programmed fuel injection. It delivers 117 hp at 6,600 rpm and 145 N-m of maximum torque at 4,800 rpm. This is where you’ll realize the benefits of having sharp exterior profiles in terms of aerodynamics. The car is quick to reach its cruising speeds. Particularly when you play around the paddle shifters to manipulate the gears, you can reach the highway speed limits in no time. It is also beneficial for engine braking on downhills. Meanwhile, the enhanced seven-speed CVT automatic transmission is a smooth operator. Gear changes were seamless and in sync with the throttle. Impressively, the final drive enables the engine to stay just below 2,000 rpm at 100 km/h. This promotes fuel efficiency aside from the Econ button, when engaged, adjusts throttle response, gear shifting and even the aircon operation.
- Reliable and advanced safety features. This particular version is bundled with numerous protection elements enough to give you full confidence while driving. The frame construction is fortified with G-con body structure, which absorbs the force of impact during collisions. There are more exclusive safety features to this top-of-the-line variant. One is the vehicle stability assist, which enable drivers in control by avoid over and under steers. Another is the hill start assist to prevent the car from moving backward in an uphill. And aside from dual airbags, there are also side curtain airbags for maximum protection. What is more, backing up is made easy with the available multiview rear camera with guidelines. There’s also antilock braking system combined with electronic brake distribution for steadfast stopping force.
Last, this latest generation was bestowed with the Grand Prix Awards in 2014 in Kuching, Sarawak, for Best Overall Adult Occupant Protection (Small Family). Likewise, it’s a five-star rating recipient for the Asean New Car Assessment Program for Adult Occupant Protection. The City VX+ is priced at P988,000.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino