Honda’s popular mid-sized sedan is all set for a comeback into the Indian market with a refreshed design and some significant technological and safety updates. The most noteworthy addition is the inclusion of Honda’s Sensing ADAS technology in all petrol-powered City variants. The new City will continue to compete with the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Verna 2023 and Volkswagen Virtus in the segment.

The Honda City facelift receives a few exterior tweaks to make it stand out from its predecessor. The thick chrome trim on the grille is now slimmer and has a honeycomb pattern. The bumper gets Civic-inspired fog lights as well. The top-spec versions also get 16-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, there’s a lip spoiler, chrome insert on the tailgate and a faux diffuser. Honda is also offering a fresh new Obsidian Blue paint scheme.

Inside, the Honda City facelift retains its dual-tone theme and is offered with a host of features including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It will also get ambient lighting, a 7-inch digital driver display and automatic climate control among others. However, the feature that we’re most excited about is the wireless charging pad for smartphones. It will make the Honda City one of the first cars to offer this convenience feature.

Honda has also updated the Honda City 2023 infotainment system on the City. It is now powered by a 7-inch touchscreen and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The company has also included a USB Type-C port on the centre console for easy connectivity. It also has an automatic parking assist function and a smart key with push-button start. The new Honda City will also get a panoramic sunroof, which is a welcome addition.

In the powertrain department, the Honda City will continue to use its 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine. This is capable of generating up to 121 hp of maximum power and 145 nm of peak torque. It is mated to either a six-speed manual or CVT gearbox. Honda has also introduced the Honda City Hybrid, which combines the petrol engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 119 hp and 253 nm. The Honda City hybrid will be available in SV, V and ZX trims.

Overall, the Honda City 2023 is a competent car in its segment. The facelifted model brings in some much-needed technology and safety features that will help it fight the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and Hyundai Verna 2023. While the loss of the diesel engine is a big blow, the inclusion of Honda’s Sensing technology in all petrol-powered models will definitely help it gain ground in the battle against its rivals. However, we’re missing some pricing-expected features in this facelift, which could make the Honda City a little less competitive.