Honda City Facelift Makes Hybrid Power the Main Choice in Thailand

Honda has updated the City in Thailand, where the subcompact model continues to be offered as both a sedan and a hatchback. The facelift follows the Indian-market update but adds versions and equipment not available there, including the sportier RS trim.

The exterior changes focus mainly on the front end. Both body styles receive slimmer LED headlights, a redesigned honeycomb grille and reshaped bumper intakes. The RS version gets its own lower bumper treatment, red badging and a more aggressive look.

The side profile remains largely unchanged, as the current City has kept the same basic body since 2019. At the rear, Honda has added updated LED taillights with clear lenses and a darker internal finish. The RS also gets a larger faux diffuser, although the exhaust remains hidden beneath the bumper.

Honda has introduced new alloy wheel designs and fresh RS colors, including Belzing Red and Urban Grey Pearl. However, the more aggressively styled Drival Edition does not appear to continue after the facelift.

Inside, the main update is a new 10-inch infotainment screen on higher trims. Entry versions get a smaller display, but it is now better integrated into the dashboard. Other available features include ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera, wireless charging and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Sedan buyers also get a new Platinum Gray interior option, offered only with selected exterior colors such as Meteoroid Gray Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.

The biggest mechanical change is the shift toward hybrid power. The only non-electrified version left in the Thai lineup is the base S grade, which keeps the turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder VTEC engine paired with a CVT.

The V, SV and RS grades are now available only with Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system. It combines a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine with an electric motor. Final specifications have not been confirmed yet, but the previous hybrid produced 125 hp, compared with 120 hp for the outgoing turbo VTEC.

Honda is already accepting expressions of interest in Thailand. Full orders will open on July 1, with first deliveries expected by August 31. Pricing has not been announced, but the facelifted City is expected to stay close to the outgoing model’s ฿599,000–829,000 range.