Outlining the technical features of the all-new Honda City

Ever since its debut in 1996, the Honda City set out to prove that an economy car could surprise and delight with genuinely useful technology. From being the first in its class to have a fuel-injected engine, to an innovative layout that allows for a roomier cabin and trunk, each new version of the City advances the  state-of-the-art aspect for the small car.

The fourth generation City continues that tradition. Beneath its sleek new skin are new features, inside the cabin and within the engine bay, that help define the new City as the technological leader.

1.5-liter i-VTEC engine. The new City debuts with only one engine, a 1.5-liter with i-VTEC variable valve timing. The 16-valve, SOHC engine generates  118.36 horsepower and 145 Newton-meters of torque. Honda is confident that even without a 1.3-liter option, the City will deliver satisfying fuel economy. The engine uses chain drive for durability, and a drive-by-wire throttle to intelligently control fuel delivery.

CVT with paddle shifters. Aside from the base manual model, all City models will be equipped with a continuously variable transmission. CVT eliminates shift shock while helping  improve fuel economy.

“Econ” button. Speaking of fuel economy, the City, like the Civic and Accord, is now equipped with an “Econ” button that modulates throttle response and alters air-con operation to enhance fuel efficiency. As fuel efficiency is dependent mostly on driver behavior, the City’s gauges incorporate an Eco coaching function. A light ring around the gauges changes to green when the driver is  driving efficiently.

New 7-inch touchscreen. The centerpiece of the City, literally, is the new 7-inch touchscreen mounted on the instrument panel. The upper touch panel controls the audio and a linked smart phone. Audio can be piped in via Bluetooth, USB or HDMI. The system can mirror smart phone functions, with available voice command, and the screen also acts as monitor for the rear-view camera.

The audio features four speakers with separate tweeters mounted higher on the door panels. The upper variant City has automatic climate control, also activated by touch panel.

Mutiple USB outlets. Honda recognizes that passengers need multiple charging points, so it equipped the City with multiple USB outlets at the front and rear. The City has available capability to act as a WiFi hotspot.

Antilock brakes, airbags and other safety features. Safety is high on the City’s priority list. Antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution, and dual front airbags are standard. The top variant get side  and curtain airbags.

Since the best safety is active safety, the top VX+ also comes with hill start assist, and stability assist, which helps  keep the vehicle on course by suppressing oversteer and understeer.

Smart key. The upper VX and VX+ variants feature a smart key that allows the car to unlock even with the key still in the driver’s pocket. With the smart key comes an engine start/stop button.