Honda has just launched a game changer for middle-class Malaysians – the 5th Generation City.
Conceptualised to be ambitious and confident, the 5th Generation City is now longer by 111 mm, wider by 54 mm and lowered by 10 mm compared to the 4th Generation City.
Furthermore, its exterior carries a presence that is eye-catching and comes in four exciting variants. Amongst these, Malaysia is the first in the world to launch the RS e:HEV variant.
The RS e:HEV variant has a gloss black front grill, new carbon patterned front lip, new rear bumper with diffuser for a sporty impression as well as new trunk spoiler and new gloss black door mirrors for a two-toned expression of the body colour.
The City V and RS e:HEV variants also feature new LED Headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), New LED Fog Lights as well as new LED Taillights.
Both variants are also fitted with 406.4 mm alloy wheels that complement the sleek appearance of the car.
Overall, the new City presents a cutting-edge design that accentuates a sense of large vehicle size class.
For the first time in Honda Malaysia’s line-up, the RS e:HEV variant will be powered by an intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) powertrain.
The i-MMD powertrain is revolutionary as it is able to deliver 108PS and a best-in-class high torque of 253Nm.
When combined with Electric Continuous Variable Transmission (e-CVT), it delivers a powerful and smooth acceleration equivalent to a D-segment Naturally Aspirated engine torque.
The i-MMD powertrain and Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) system can seamlessly regulate between the three driving modes of EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive in the most efficient way.
The RS e:HEV variant also comes with Deceleration Selector Paddles that allow the driver to engage on the paddles for power regeneration as well as slowing down the vehicle without stepping on the brake pedal.
Honda Malaysia offers the S, E and V variants with a new 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC powertrain, the newest engine in its segment, to provide an ideal balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Coupled with Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT), this powertrain is able to produce up to 121PS which is highest in its class and a maximum torque of 145Nm.
The interior styling of the new City emphasises high-quality textures and functional approach to achieve sophistication and comfort for both driver and passengers alike.
The rear passenger legroom has been expanded and rear air-conditioning ventilation now comes standard across all variants for added comfort.
The RS e:HEV variant features 177.8 mm Interactive Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Meter Cluster that accentuates the high-quality design.
In addition, this variant also comes with Sport Pedal Pads that provides a sportier feel. The RS e:HEV variant is fitted with Ultrasuede® Seats¹ and Red Stitching at interior areas.
Meanwhile the V variant is trimmed with Leather Seats¹ and Ivory highlights¹ at inner areas. The E, V and RS e:HEV variants are available with an 203.2 mm display audio with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ Connectivity.
The new City also boasts a couple of B-segment firsts, setting a benchmark with features that are equivalent with C, D and SUV segments.
The Honda LaneWatch which is fitted in the V and RS e:HEV variants, is a camera-based advanced safety technology which helps monitor blind spots within an infotainment system.
The RS e:HEV variant’s new first-in-segment Electric Parking Brake (EPB) provides convenience to the driver with just a lift of a button, while appearing trendy.
Another advanced feature, the Remote Engine Start, is a first-in-segment to be offered in the new City’s E, V and RS e:HEV variants.
This technology allows the driver to start their car while the doors are locked and to activate the air-conditioning in order to cool down the cabin with a simple push of a button on the keyless remote.
To enhance the package of the new City RS e:HEV, it will be offered with a most complete advanced safety feature in the B-segment, the Honda SENSING, which was developed to realise the vision of a collision-free mobile society.
Its advanced safety system utilises a front wide view camera to better recognise road boundaries during day and night driving conditions.
The suite of driver assistance safety systems in Honda SENSING are as below:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Auto High Beam (AHB)
Safety wise, the V and RS e:HEV variants will be equipped with Six Airbags.
Other standard safety features include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Rear Seat ISOFIX and New Rear Seatbelt Reminder.
Reverse Sensors with Multi-angle Reverse Camera will be offered in E, V and RS e:HEV variants.
Meanwhile, the RS e:HEV variant will also be equipped with the Auto Brake Hold (ABH) feature where the vehicle’s stationary position is held with only a push of a button without the driver having to continuously step on the brake.
Prices without sales tax for 2020 only start from RM74,191.27 for the ‘S’ variant, RM81,664.82 for the ‘E’ variant and RM86,561.45 for the ‘V’ variant.
The technology-filled and impressive City RS e:HEV variant pricing will only be announced in January 2021 but bookings start right now.
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