Should You Buy a Used Honda City in 2025

The Honda City is an iconic car in the sedan segment that has become synonymous with reliability, comfort, and driving pleasure. From the Indian Car of the Year in 2009 to the Sedan of the Year in 2009, the Honda City has numerous prestigious awards to its name. Whether you are buying a new or used Honda City, this sedan has consistently set benchmarks in its category.

Whether you are a city commuter or someone who enjoys long highway drives, the Honda City has been a trusted companion for decades. But is buying a used Honda City in 2025 a smart decision? Explore if a pre-owned Honda City deserves a spot in your garage.

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Why you should consider a used Honda City?

The Honda City is popular for three reasons: reliability, speed and performance. First, for high-mileage users, it is the finest alternative to diesel. The hybrid system is quite efficient in the city, returning nearly 19-20 kmpl while on the highways it can peak at 23-24 kmpl.

Second, it’s not only efficient, but it’s also the quickest sedan in its segment. Third, the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under 10 seconds and has a powerful petrol engine that sounds great.

While these are the prime reasons for Honda City’s popularity, these are not the only factors driving its demand even after 26 years of launch. The Honda City has been a favorite among Indian car buyers for good reasons. Here’s why this sedan continues to shine in the used car market:

Honda City Specifications

Reasons to Consider a Used Honda City

Here is why you must consider to buy the Honda City in 2025:

1. Ageless Design

The Honda City’s design has always been ahead of its time, making even older models visually appealing in today’s market. The sleek profile, combined with sharp headlamps and a chrome-accented grille, strikes a perfect balance between elegance and sportiness.

The sedan’s low-slung body with a coupe-like silhouette gives it a timeless charm that modern sedans often struggle to achieve. This ensures that even older generations of the Honda City don’t look dated when parked alongside newer vehicles.

2. Reliable Engine and Performance

The i-VTEC petrol engine is highly regarded for its smooth performance, reliability, and linear power delivery. It provides an enjoyable driving experience, whether you’re navigating city traffic or cruising on the highways. The diesel variant, though no longer available in new models, is equally impressive with its excellent fuel efficiency and strong torque for highway driving.

Over the years, Honda’s engines have proven their longevity, capable of delivering consistent performance even after logging over 100,000 kilometres. With proper maintenance, these engines remain smooth and efficient, making them ideal for used car buyers.

3. Premium Interiors and Features

The Honda City offers a luxurious cabin experience. Even older models come equipped with features like leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a sunroof, which elevate the driving experience. The interiors feel premium thanks to high-quality materials and thoughtful ergonomics.

It’s spacious rear seats and large boot space make it a practical choice for families and travelers alike. While older models might not have all the modern tech of the latest generation, they still provide a comfortable and feature-rich environment.

4. High Resale Value

The Honda City has always maintained a strong resale value in the used car market. Thanks to its reputation for reliability, even older models fetch competitive prices. This makes it a smart investment for buyers looking for a car that retains its value over time.

How old should a pre-owned Honda City be?

When choosing a pre-owned Honda City, it’s important to consider its generation and production year to maximize value for money while avoiding potential issues.

4th Generation (2014–2020)

The 4th-generation Honda City, manufactured between 2014 and 2020, offers an excellent blend of affordability, modern features, and reliable performance. Models from 2018 onwards are particularly recommended as they introduced updates like a touchscreen infotainment system, LED lights, and improved safety features. These models strike a balance between price and feature set, making them a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.

5th Generation (2020–Present)

The 5th-generation Honda City, launched in 2020, takes things a notch higher with advanced technology, a more spacious cabin, and enhanced safety features. If your budget allows, opting for a model from 2021 onwards will get you the latest features such as connected car tech, a digital instrument cluster, and better cabin insulation.

Models to Avoid

It’s best to avoid early 4th-generation models produced between 2014 and 2015 unless they have a verifiable maintenance history. These models may exhibit issues such as clutch wear, suspension fatigue, or outdated features compared to newer counterparts.

What to look out for when buying a used Honda City?

Buying a used car involves careful scrutiny to ensure that the vehicle is in good condition and free from major issues. Here are the key areas to evaluate:

1. Engine Condition

The engine should run smoothly without unusual noises, vibrations, or smoke. A poorly maintained engine can result in costly repairs down the line. Ask for the car’s service records to confirm regular maintenance, particularly oil changes. During the test drive, you must also pay attention to the power delivery and ensure it is consistent across different RPM ranges.

2. Transmission

The CVT transmission, available in petrol variants, requires special attention. A well-maintained CVT should offer smooth and seamless gear shifts. Any lag or whining noises indicate potential issues. For manual transmissions, check that the clutch engages smoothly without slipping under acceleration or being too stiff.

3. Suspension

The Honda City’s suspension system is generally durable, but older models may develop issues due to wear and tear. Drive the car over uneven roads and speed bumps to check for excessive bouncing, squeaking sounds, or instability. Uneven tyre wear can also be a sign of suspension or alignment issues.

4. Rust or Body Damage

Rust in the underbody, wheel wells, or door sills can compromise the car’s structural integrity. Inspect these areas thoroughly, especially in vehicles exposed to coastal regions. Additionally, look for signs of poorly executed repairs, such as mismatched paint or misaligned panels, which may suggest past accidents. By performing these checks, you can ensure that the used Honda City you’re considering is in good condition and worth your investment.

How much should a pre-owned Honda City cost?

If you’re considering a used Honda City, here’s the expected price range in various cities based on Spinny’s latest data:

Is a used Honda City worth buying in 2025?

A used Honda City remains an excellent option for buyers in 2025. It offers a blend of reliability, stylish design, and premium features that continue to stand out in the competitive used car market. Its reputation for durability and low maintenance costs makes it a smart choice, especially for first-time buyers or those looking for an affordable upgrade without compromising on quality.

The City’s i-VTEC petrol engine is known for smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency. Its refined driving quality and spacious interior continue to impress, even in older models. With features like touchscreen infotainment, leather upholstery, and a sunroof, it offers a touch of luxury, making it a strong contender despite the rise of compact SUVs.

However, as with any used car, it’s crucial to buy from a reputable seller and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected, especially for models with higher mileage. Pay special attention to the engine and transmission condition, as well as any signs of wear and tear on the suspension or bodywork. If you find a well-maintained used Honda City, it will undoubtedly meet or exceed your expectations in 2025.

Also Read: 3 Things to Check before buying a used Honda City

FAQs about buying a used Honda City