2023 Honda City e:HEV
The Honda City also has a strong-hybrid model in the e:HEV, that pairs a four-cylinder petrol engine with a potent electric motor. The system works flawlessly and it feels just like a “normal” car to drive; save for the silence that occurs when it’s working in electric mode. But that’s the kicker. The energy needed to move a body from rest is more than the energy needed to keep it going once it gains momentum. Here is where the electric motor, with all of its 80 kW (109 hp) and 253 Nm of torque from the word go, makes things effortless and efficient. A figure of over 20 km/l in the city is an everyday occurrence; provided one doesn’t floor the pedal or stamp either pedal too hard, binary style, and drives rationally. The same applies to the open road. Figures above 25 km/l can be the norm.
There’s not much different in the hybrid model, save for a wireless charging dock relocated to below the centre armrest. There are the usual visual cues that one is in a greener car and that’s a good thing. The other tell-tale is under the bonnet. A segment of bright orange high-voltage cabling over the engine connecting the motor to the battery, inverter and control electronics cannot be missed.
The City e:HEV facelift also gets a new entry “V” variant available from Rs 18.89 lakh, whereas this updated ZX variant goes up to Rs 20.39 lakh (ex-showroom).
Need To Know – 2023 Honda City e:HEV ZX
Price: Rs 20.39 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine: 1,498 cc, in-line four, petrol
Max Power: 98 hp @ 5,600-6,400 rpm
Max Torque: 127 Nm @ 4,500-5,000 rpm
Transmission: Electronically-controlled, continuously variable, automatic/
wet, multi-plate engine-linked clutch, front-wheel drive
Electric Traction Motor: AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Max Power: 80 kW (109 hp) @ 3,500 rpm
Max Torque: 253 Nm @ 0-3,000 rpm
Electric Generator Motor: AC synchronous, permanent magnet
Max Power: 70 kW (95 hp)
Peak Combined Output: 93 kW (126 hp)
Battery Pack: 172.8-volt, lithium-ion
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear
Weight: 1,280 kg
