Honda City e:HEV hybrid model revealed for India

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There’s some good news for Honda fans in India. The company is not giving up on the country just yet, but is introducing a new version of the City sedan called City e:HEV. It’s a series-parallel hybrid model with some bold claims—which we’ll talk about in a minute. Market launch is scheduled for next month; in the meantime, let’s take a brief look.

Speaking of which, the City e:HEV will be available only in two trims: V and ZX. Key exterior features depending on the trim include full LED headlights (9-array) with integrated running lights, front LED fog lights, 3D wraparound LED taillight signatures, 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a trunk lid spoiler, and a diffuser-like insert on the rear bumper.

Inside, Honda has gone for a two-tone Ivory & Black theme. Key features include an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto connectivity, an 8-speaker audio system, a 7-inch color MID, and auto AC. As for remote functions, the sunroof can also be operated remotely, in addition to power windows and engine starting. Download the brochure here.

Safety
Honda has loaded the City e:HEV with both passive and active safety (ADAS) systems. These include 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, Electric Parking Brake, and Honda Sensing which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Lane Keep Assist System, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Moving on to the business-end of the story then, the hybrid powertrain is a combination of a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine, two electric motors (a traction and a generator), an e-CVT and a small lithium-ion battery pack. The ICE offers 72 kW (98 metric hp) and 127 Nm (94 lb-ft) of torque, while the electric traction motor offers 80 kW (109 metric hp) and 253 Nm (187 lb-ft) of torque. The combined output, however, is 93 kW (126 metric hp).

The system gets to choose whether to drive in ICE, EV or hybrid mode. And Honda claims an outstanding fuel efficiency of 26.5 kmpl. Buyers get an 8-year warranty on the battery pack.