Honda is preparing the biggest overhaul ever for its iconic City sedan. The sixth-generation Honda City, scheduled for a 2028 launch, will adopt a completely new design direction inspired by the brand’s futuristic 0 Series sedan concept showcased at the Japan Mobility Show. Although the 0 Series is a premium EV, its styling philosophy will influence all upcoming Honda sedans — including the City.
This transformation comes at a crucial stage for Honda India. Once the segment leader, the City has recently lost ground to the Hyundai Verna, Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus. With the next-gen model, Honda aims to reestablish the City as the benchmark in the midsize sedan segment.
A Radical New Look Inspired by Honda’s 0 Series
Early design previews reveal that the 2028 Honda City will carry forward several styling cues from the 0 Series sedan, resulting in a sharper, more modern and aerodynamic profile. Expected changes include:
- A sleeker, cleaner front fascia with a new lighting signature
- A more athletic, low-slung stance
- The return of a front quarter glass, reminiscent of classic performance cars
- Sculpted body surfaces with a premium, futuristic silhouette
While the 0 Series concept featured pop-up headlamps, these will not appear on the production City due to global safety regulations. Still, the redesign will be the most dramatic shift in the model’s history.
New PF2 Platform: Lighter, Stiffer and Hybrid-Ready
The next-gen City will migrate to Honda’s PF2 platform, a modular architecture designed to support hybrids, sedans and compact SUVs. Key benefits include:
- Up to 90kg weight reduction for improved efficiency and responsiveness
- Higher body rigidity for better handling and crash protection
- Extensive parts-sharing across future Honda models
- Better energy regeneration and hybrid performance
This new platform plays a major role in meeting stricter CAFE 3 emission norms coming into effect in 2027.
Hybrid Powertrain to Become Mainstream
Honda will reposition the City hybrid as a mass-market offering rather than a premium, limited variant. Improved localisation and parts commonality will help reduce costs.
Expected engine options:
1.5L NA Petrol (Updated)
– Approx. 121 hp
– Manual and CVT gearbox options
Next-Gen 1.5L Atkinson-Cycle Strong Hybrid
– Expected combined output: ~126 hp
– Dual electric motors
– e-CVT system
– Enhanced battery performance and efficiency
With hybrids gaining popularity in India, this new setup is expected to be a key sales driver.
A Crucial Product for Honda’s Comeback
The Honda City has been India’s favourite sedan since 1998. While its early generations became icons for performance and innovation, the recent versions focused more on comfort and safety. With rivals now offering more powerful engines, advanced tech and premium features, the City urgently needs a bold reinvention.
Sales reflect this shifting demand — the City dropped to 578 units in October 2025, down 42 percent year-on-year. Honda hopes the next-gen model will revive interest and restore its dominance.
Verdict
With an all-new design philosophy, advanced PF2 platform and a stronger hybrid focus, the 2028 Honda City is shaping up to be the most significant evolution in its 25-year history. If executed well, it could return Honda to the top of India’s midsize sedan segment.
