Honda is all set to unveil three new models and the City facelift in 2014. The most anticipated one being the City diesel version. The fourth Generation City will come equipped with a diesel motor, the same unit that does the duty in Honda Amaze. The Earth Dreams technology powered, 1.6 litre diesel unit is the 4th diesel unit from Honda and also the least powerful among the lot.
The other expected launches are the new Jazz, compact MPV Mobilio and compact SUV Vezel.
Honda will also hope to cash in on the compact SUV market, especially after the success of Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster. The Vezel is expected to come in two variants – 1.5 litre petrol and a 1.5 litre diesel. The Vezel is designed on the Jazz platform, and also carries elements from its bigger brother, the CRV.
The 7-seater MPV was originally designed for the Indonesian market and will serve as more than just a people mover in India. Inside, the cabin looks familiar, and borrows lot of elements from the Brio and Amaze. The Mobilio looks identical to the Brio and Amaze when viewed from the front, but from the A- Pillar onwards, the MPV gets a character of its own. Sloping lines, and a fresh looking rear with an integrated spoiler gives the Mobilio a sporty yet sophisticated look.
The Mobilio is based on the Brio platform, much like the Honda Amaze. The same 1.5 litre diesel unit is expected to power the Mobilio. The car has 2650mm of wheelbase and space inside the cabin is expected to be aplenty.
Pricing, as usual, will the key issue for Honda. Exact specifications and pricing will be out during the 2014 Auto Expo.
In pictures: A closer look at the new Honda City
-sriram@newindianexpress.com