Honda Atlas has officially launched the highly anticipated 6th generation City model in Pakistan.
Marking the first major redesign of the vehicle in over a decade, this release introduces significant improvements in design, features, and performance.
With the base variant priced at Rs2.599 million, this launch aims to redefine expectations in the compact sedan segment.
A Decade in the Making
The new Honda City represents the first generation-change since 2009, with the previous model only receiving minor facelifts over the years.
The 6th generation's unveiling took place during a virtual ceremony, emphasizing Honda’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
This launch coincides with the company’s announcement of its first-quarter financial results for April to June 2021.
According to the financial report, Honda Atlas posted a profit of Rs928.2 million, translating to an EPS (Earnings Per Share) of Rs6.5.
This is a stark improvement compared to the Rs511.02 million loss incurred during the same period the previous year, primarily due to the pandemic-induced lockdowns.
Variants and Performance
The 6th generation Honda City offers five variants, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences and budgets:
- 1.2LS MT – Equipped with a 1,200cc engine producing 88 horsepower and 110 Nm of torque. Price: Rs2.59 million.
- 1.2LS CVT – Features the same 1,200cc engine paired with a CVT transmission. Price: Rs2.79 million.
- 1.5LS CVT – Powered by a 1,500cc engine delivering 118 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. Price: Rs2.89 million.
- 1.5LAS MT – A manual transmission version of the 1,500cc engine variant. Price: Rs3.019 million.
- 1.5LAS CVT – The top-tier variant featuring a CVT transmission and enhanced features. Price: Rs3.174 million.
This lineup offers an excellent balance of affordability and performance, with the high-end variants targeting customers seeking a premium experience.
Pricing Breakdown
Here is a detailed pricing structure for all the variants:
- 1.2L MT: Rs2.599 million
- 1.2L CVT: Rs2.799 million
- 1.5L CVT: Rs2.899 million
- 1.5L Aspire MT: Rs3.019 million
- 1.5L Aspire CVT: Rs3.174 million
These prices position the new Honda City as a competitive option in the Pakistani market, offering a wide range of choices for various budgets.
Modern and Elegant
The 6th generation Honda City boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design, with subtle yet impactful changes. Key exterior features include:
- LED DRLs and Fog Lamps: Available on Aspire variants, adding a modern touch. However, the lower-end models come with bulb-type fog lamps.
- Alloy Wheels: Aspire models feature stylish alloy wheels, while lower trims are fitted with steel rims and wheel caps.
- Shark Fin Antenna: Present on Aspire trims, enhancing the car's overall aesthetics.
- Chrome Door Handles: Available on higher-end variants for a premium look, while lower variants feature body-colored handles.
The absence of projector headlamps even in the top-tier variant may be a minor drawback for some customers.
Interior
The interior of the 6th generation City features a dual-tone beige and black theme across all variants, providing a sophisticated and welcoming ambiance. Key interior highlights include:
- Touchscreen Infotainment Systems: Aspire trims come equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen, while lower variants have a 7-inch display.
- Climate Control: Aspire models feature touch-operated auto air conditioning with rear vents, ensuring optimal comfort for all passengers. Lower variants have manual AC with conventional knobs.
- Steering Wheel Controls: Aspire variants include a multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, while lower trims have limited controls.
- Push-Button Start: Available in Aspire trims, enhancing convenience and modernity.
- Keyless Entry: All variants come with Keyless Entry, with Aspire trims offering Smart Key Entry for added sophistication.
These features make the 6th generation Honda City a strong contender in its segment, particularly for customers prioritizing comfort and technology.
Market Reception and Competition
The 6th generation Honda City enters a highly competitive market, facing rivals such as the Toyota Yaris, Changan Alsvin, and Proton Saga. Honda’s reputation for reliability, combined with the new City’s advanced features, positions it as a formidable competitor
While the new Honda City offers significant upgrades, there are some areas where it falls short compared to global standards. For instance, the lack of projector headlamps and LED fog lamps even in the top-tier variant may disappoint some buyers.
