- The hybrid powertrain is shared with the new-gen Honda Jazz.
- It gets 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired with two electric motor setup and CVT automatic transmission.
- Once launched, it will become India’s most affordable self charging strong hybrid car.
The fifth-generation Honda City made its India debut in 2020. And now the Japanese carmaker is set to bring its hybrid version to our shores. Christened as Honda City e: HEV, the car is currently on display at the ongoing Thailand Motor Show 2022 in the sportier RS avatar.
The Honda City Hybrid features the brand’s strong hybrid system termed the i-MMD (intelligent multi-mode drive) eHEV hybrid powertrain. It uses the 1.5-liter petrol engine (98PS/127Nm), mated to two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery that allow the mid-size sedan to function in pure electric mode as well. The primary motor of the Honda City Hybrid churns out 109PS of max grunt and 253Nm of peak torque, which is good enough to offer a peppy performance, at least on paper. Its second electric motor (integrated with the engine) acts as a starter-generator. The only transmission with the hybrid powertrain is the CVT automatic.
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It is worth noting that the hybrid system of the 2022 Honda City offers three modes: pure EV, hybrid, and engine-only. It also features a regenerative braking system. While its pure-electric range is yet to be revealed, its Thai-spec version can return up to 27.78kmpl in ideal driving conditions.
Aside from the hybrid tech, the City e: HEV RS trim also gets sportier design elements, including the blacked-out cabin theme. It also features Honda Sensing technology that comprises multiple active and passive safety features such as adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning system, and collision mitigation braking system, etc.
Expect Honda to launch the City Hybrid in India in the coming months, with prices likely to start from around Rs 17 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will become India’s most affordable self-charging strong hybrid car after the Toyota Camry Hybrid.
