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The GOLDEN journey of Honda City, since 1981!

Last updated on: December 22, 2011 07:48 IST


The world's seventh-largest automobile manufacturer, Honda Motors, is the first auto brand that had introduced a 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 began in 1981. From then on, Honda City has gone through several transformation phases.

It had been designed especially for the European, Japanese and Australasian markets earlier, but it soon posted the flag of success overseas as well, including in the Indian market.

Originally, it was a subcompact three-door sedan, but later it was replaced by the Honda GA1 series in 1986.

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The GOLDEN journey of Honda City, since 1981!

Last updated on: December 22, 2011 07:48 IST

The first generation Honda City was available in two variants: a two-door convertible and a three-door hatchback/van.

Powered 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 upgradation with new 'Fit' sub fix as a trim variant heading towards the second generation.

There was no convertible and cabriolet model. The City GA2 (generation second) model was discontinued in 1994 and restarted in 1996.

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The GOLDEN journey of Honda City, since 1981!

Last updated on: December 22, 2011 07:48 IST

The face-lifted 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 in time, the company was more focussed on covering the developing Asian market, including India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Thailand, the 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 a 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.

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The GOLDEN journey of Honda City, since 1981!

Last updated on: December 22, 2011 07:48 IST

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, and a comfortable-yet-price-friendly vehicle.

In the 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.

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The GOLDEN journey of Honda City, since 1981!

Last updated on: December 22, 2011 07:48 IST

Stepping ahead in its journey, the fifth generation Honda City was appeared on September 25, 2008 in the Indian market, apart from some other European countries.

This shinning gem is available in four variants including -- E, S, V and VAT (automatic). It is a dream car for the passion, power and elegance loving crowd.

Powered by a 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 design makes it most attractive in its class.

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The GOLDEN journey of Honda City, since 1981!

Last updated on: December 22, 2011 07:48 IST

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.

Based on customers' priorities and feedback, the company has made some changes to its E variant, particularly the interior and the 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.

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The GOLDEN journey of Honda City, since 1981!

Last updated on: December 22, 2011 07:48 IST

Honda City is one among the most successful stories for the company, which has been dominating the premium midsized sedan segment for about a decade.

Recently, the 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 at a price tag of Rs 6.99 lakh (Rs 699,000), ex-showroom Delhi.