Honda City Facelift Debuts in Malaysia from RM85,980
Honda has launched the facelifted City in Malaysia, offering two trim levels with updated safety and equipment, and pricing starting at RM85,980 on the road.
Honda has introduced the facelifted City in Malaysia, offering buyers a refreshed version of its popular B-segment saloon. The launch brings two trim levels to the market: the entry-level Grade S, priced at RM85,980, and the more comprehensively equipped Grade E at RM90,980. Both prices are on the road with insurance, as confirmed by Honda's announcement in June 2012.
Honda City Facelift Launches in Malaysia
Trim Levels and Pricing
The updated City is available in two variants. The Grade S serves as the entry point, while the Grade E offers additional features and safety equipment. This dual-trim approach allows Honda to cater to a broader range of customers, from those seeking value to those prioritising extra comfort and safety. The Grade S is aimed at budget-conscious buyers, whereas the Grade E is designed for those who want a more feature-rich experience.
| Engine | 1.5-litre i-VTEC, four-cylinder petrol |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 120 PS @ 6,600 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4,800 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Warranty | 5 years unlimited mileage or 6 free labour services (up to 100,000 km) |
| Grade S Price | RM85,980 |
| Grade E Price | RM90,980 |
Equipment and Safety Features
Both the Grade S and Grade E are equipped with Honda’s 1.5-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, which produces 120 PS at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard across both trims, ensuring a familiar and reliable driving experience for Malaysian buyers.
- Dual front airbags are standard on both grades, providing basic occupant protection.
- Both trims include ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, enhancing braking safety.
- ISOFIX child seat anchors are fitted as standard, catering to families with young children.
- Grade E gains Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), which helps maintain control during emergency manoeuvres or slippery conditions.
- Grade E also adds front fog lights, chrome exhaust tips, retractable side mirrors with integrated turn signals, paddle shifters, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.
- Grade E features an armrest with cup holders and larger 16-inch alloy wheels fitted with 185/55 Continental ContiPremiumContact 2 tyres.
- Grade S is fitted with 15-inch wheels and 175/65 Goodyear GT3 tyres.
Ownership Benefits and Warranty
Honda offers a five-year unlimited mileage warranty on the facelifted City, or six free labour services within the first 100,000 km, whichever comes first. This warranty package is designed to reassure buyers about long-term running costs and reliability, which are key considerations in the Malaysian market. The inclusion of free labour services further reduces the cost of ownership during the initial years, making the City a more attractive proposition for private buyers and families alike.
Market Context and Competition
The facelifted City enters Malaysia's highly competitive B-segment saloon market, where value, equipment, and reliability are closely compared by buyers. By introducing stability control (VSA) on the Grade E, Honda is addressing a growing demand for advanced safety features in this segment. The City competes with models such as the Toyota Vios and Nissan Almera, which also focus on fuel efficiency, practicality, and low maintenance costs.
Recent model launches in Malaysia, such as the Suzuki Grand Vitara facelift and the Toyota GT 86, indicate an active market with frequent updates and new entrants. The City facelift aims to maintain Honda's strong position among private buyers and small families by offering a blend of modern equipment, safety, and a reputation for reliability.
Summary of Features by Grade
| Feature | Grade S | Grade E |
|---|---|---|
| Dual front airbags | Yes | Yes |
| ABS with EBD & Brake Assist | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX child seat anchors | Yes | Yes |
| Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) | No | Yes |
| Front fog lights | No | Yes |
| Chrome exhaust tips | No | Yes |
| Retractable mirrors with turn signals | No | Yes |
| Paddle shifters | No | Yes |
| Leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls | No | Yes |
| Armrest with cup holders | No | Yes |
| Wheel size and tyres | 15-inch, 175/65 Goodyear GT3 | 16-inch, 185/55 Continental ContiPremiumContact 2 |
Conclusion
The Honda City facelift brings updated styling, improved equipment, and enhanced safety to Malaysia’s B-segment saloon market. With two trim levels catering to different needs and a strong warranty package, the facelifted City aims to remain a top choice for buyers seeking a reliable, well-equipped, and affordable saloon. The addition of stability control on the Grade E further strengthens its appeal among safety-conscious consumers.
