Back when cars were simple and had real meaning. The Honda City has enjoyed an almost cult-like following ever since it was first launched in 1998. It was the first car in India to have 100 hp and it quickly became an enthusiasts favourite. So, it only made sense that Honda launched the 2nd gen City keeping that in mind. Right?
Plot twist, they made it as comfortable as possible and completely changed the design language from a menacing car to a smiley one. This broke everyone’s hearts and shortly, Honda somewhat redeemed itself by launching the VTEC model of the City.
This super-rare 2nd-gen Honda City VTEC ZX 10th Anniversary Edition was launched in 2008. Back then, I was a kid busy learning how to read and write. And after finally learning how to read and write, I saw it in the flesh in 2025. And that gave me a fresh perspective!
The first word goes to the interior. It is hard to believe that such a plush interior existed in 2008. Those light-brown seats hug you. Soft-touch materials are even on the doors and the build-quality speaks for itself. The old-school analogue instrument cluster of the City should be standard across all cars sold today. The rear-legroom is ample and the back-seat is comfortable.
Addressing the elephant in the room, the VTEC engine. The VTEC spec of this car is very rare as you had to pay Rupees 1.5 lakh more for it. It made 100 hp and this was a big deal back in the day. I was absolutely looking forward to my first ‘VTEC kicked in yo’ experience. I am sorry but it was a bummer. The surge of power was progressive and lean. No kick-in-the-pants drama!
It got ABS, dual-airbags and rear disc-brakes. The VTEC model even got the choice of a light-blue shade. The spec-game was strong and it appealed to consumers with its reliable VTEC engine, comfy interior and features. It was the first time safety was prioritized in a car.
Today, every car feels the same with touch-screens, downsized engines for efficiency and pretending to be something which they are not. For me, it was a breath of fresh air to go back to the past and experience a car which is pure in its intent. The Honda City was a comfortable sedan through and through. It is a true gem of the past!
