WHEN Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) pulled the covers off the New City, New City Hatchback, and New Civic RS e:HEV, it was not just another product launch-it was a statement. The brand has always carried a certain weight in the local motoring scene, and this latest unveiling under the banner ‘Beyond Sensational’ felt like a reaffirmation of Honda’s place in the hearts of Filipino drivers.
For the New City, it has been part of Filipino motoring life since 1996. For three decades, it has evolved alongside the people who drive it. From its humble beginnings to its current fifth generation, the City has always been about practicality, reliability, and a touch of style. The new version sharpens that formula. It is more refined, with a design that speaks to professionals who want a car that looks good in the office parking lot but also feels rewarding on the daily commute.
On the other hand, the New City Hatchback was introduced in 2021, and marked a new chapter. The hatchback carried a sportier look and a versatility that appealed to younger buyers and those with active lifestyles. It was not a mere City with a different rear end-it was a statement that Honda could blend practicality with flair. The new iteration continues that path, offering updates that keep it fresh while staying true to its sporty DNA.
Updates Across Both Models
THOUGH the sedan and hatchback cater to different lifestyles, Honda made sure both received complimentary updates. On the outside, they now wear new 16-inch alloy wheels, a clear lens taillight design, and a connected headlamp profile that improves visibility at night. These aren’t just cosmetic tweaks-they enhance safety and confidence.
The City RS variant adds a trunk accent and High Gloss Black door handles, while the Hatchback RS gets a refreshed rear bumper. Small details, yes, but they add up to a stronger presence on the road. Inside, Honda has upgraded the infotainment system with a larger 10-inch Display Audio unit. Seat trims have been updated, and rear passengers now get USB-C charging ports. These touches make everyday use more convenient and modern.
Under the hood, both models run on the familiar 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engine paired with a CVT. With 119 hp and 145 N-m of torque, they deliver a balance of fun and efficiency. Honda cites fuel economy figures of 25.17 km/L for the City and 25 km/L for the Hatchback, based on the Honda-AAP Eco Run. Numbers aside, what matters is that these cars remain enjoyable to drive without punishing the wallet at the pump.
Safety has also been elevated. Honda SENSING, the brand’s suite of driver-assist technologies, is now standard across the City and Hatchback lineup. Features like Rain-Sensing Wipers, LaneWatch Camera, and Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror are now part of the package, aligning with Honda’s global goal of achieving zero traffic collision fatalities by 2050.
Pricing remains competitive. The City starts at P998,000 for the S CVT with Honda SENSING, P1.083 million for the V CVT, and P1.178 million for the RS CVT. The Hatchback, available only in the RS CVT variant, is priced at P1.238 million. Color options include new shades like Urban Gray Pearl (plus P10,000) and Blazing Red Pearl (plus P10,000), alongside familiar favorites like Platinum White Pearl (plus P20,000), Meteoroid Gray Metallic, and Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic.
Honda Racing Corporation Accessories
HCPI also introduced Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) accessories, reinforcing the sporty character of these models. This move is not just about aesthetics-it is about giving customers the freedom to personalize their cars. At launch, the New City 1.5 S CVT was displayed with HRC accessories, showing how these add-ons can elevate the car’s appeal. For now, only the City and City Hatchback will have compatible HRC accessories, but it is a promising start.
The New Civic RS e:HEV
The Civic has always been Honda’s sporty sedan, and the RS e:HEV hybrid variant takes that reputation into new territory. The headline update is the addition of the S+ Shift feature, first seen on the Honda Prelude earlier this year. This system enhances the sport drive mode by allowing paddle shifters to mimic gear changes, complete with rev-matched downshifts. Active Sound Control amplifies engine sounds during acceleration and deceleration, giving drivers a more visceral experience.
It is a clever blend of hybrid efficiency and driving excitement. The Civic RS e:HEV delivers 30.12 km/L, based on DOE V2025 Eco Run figures, while still offering the full suite of sporty driving. Safety and convenience remain intact, with Honda SENSING, Honda CONNECT, and Google Automotive Services included.
The Civic RS e:HEV retails at P2.080 million, with color options like Urban Gray Pearl (plus P10,000), Blazing Red Pearl (plus P10,000), Platinum White Pearl (plus P20,000), Canyon River Blue Metallic, and Crystal Black Pearl.
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Extended Warranty
TO round out the launch, HCPI announced that all three new models are covered under Honda Secure Plus, the brand’s extended warranty program. This provides five years or 150,000 km of coverage, whichever comes first. For the Civic RS e:HEV, the hybrid battery gets an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty. It’s a move that adds peace of mind and strengthens the ownership experience.
The three models are now available across all 41 Honda dealerships nationwide, which means the excitement is not limited to Manila or the launch venue. It’s a nationwide rollout, and that accessibility is part of Honda’s strength.
Beyond Sensational
HONDA’S ‘Beyond Sensational’ launch was not just about unveiling new models-it was about reinforcing the brand’s identity. The City continues to be the reliable daily driver, the Hatchback adds youthful versatility, and the Civic RS e:HEV pushes the envelope with hybrid technology and sporty flair. Together, they show Honda’s commitment to evolving with the times while staying true to its roots.
For Filipino drivers, these models represent more than just transportation. They are companions for everyday life, reflections of personal style, and reminders that driving can still be fun. HCPI has managed to balance practicality, safety, and excitement, and that is why these cars resonate.