Honda Cars India Limited aims to increase its aggression across all segments in the Indian market. The company has also announced the launch of a new sub 4 meter SUV and a mid-size SUV by 2028. Meanwhile, Honda is giving the City sedan a mid-life facelift. Testing has begun and several test mules have been observed.
The latest spy shots of Atharva Aryan show the front and rear designs of the upcoming City facelift. We can also see lighting signatures in these shots. Also, these spy photos confirm that the City facelift is reaching showrooms ahead of the May 22 launch. Let’s take a closer look at these design modifications.
City facelift reached dealer
Ahead of the formal launch, Honda City facelift units are arriving at dealerships, as confirmed by the latest shots. These spy photos look like they were taken during evening time and hence we can see new lighting signatures. LED DRLs have been integrated into the headlight assemblies, which are still traditionally located.
Talking about the headlights, it seems as if they have projectors and then LED DRLs on top. These DRLs are connected to a center light bar, which is neatly hidden in its revised grille. The bumper has also been redesigned and now looks sportier. These spy photos looked as if there were no fog lights installed on them. There is a front camera in the centre.
On the sides, we can see that the City’s silhouette has been extended, which is no bad thing as the 5th generation City has always been a classy and desirable product. On the other hand, the wheels are new and are finished in black shade which adds a touch of sportiness to the equation. However, the 16-inch size is likely to continue.
This is the first time we can see the rear design of the Honda City facelift. For starters, the taillights appear to have been removed, but a smoked effect can be achieved to further accentuate the City’s sporty aesthetics. It also has a more obvious spoiler, which doesn’t seem like it’s stuck on. The C-shaped elements in the bumper of the current City have been replaced with a sportier design.
Interior and powertrain
On the inside, the 2026 Honda City facelift is likely to get a new infotainment screen, which is larger than the existing 8-inch unit. This screen is stuck to the dashboard, suggesting a square or portrait-style unit. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also likely to come with the premium audio system.
The same black and beige color theme on the steering wheel, dashboard and door trims, ambient lighting and beige seat upholstery can also be seen in the spy shots. Honda is likely to retain the same 1.5 liter 4-cylinder NA petrol engine with 6-speed MT or CVT gearbox options along with a strong hybrid system (City e:HEV) with fuel efficiency of up to 27.1 km/l.
The updated sedan will get a 360-degree camera system, which is confirmed by the dedicated camera button seen near the steering wheel inside the cabin. Ventilated front seats are also expected to be introduced, adding to the premium appeal of the City.
