The Honda City has long been one of the most trusted sedans in India. Known for its spacious interiors, smooth driving dynamics, refined petrol engine, and long-term reliability, the city has been a go-to choice for both families and professionals. Its sleek design, consistent performance, and premium appeal make it a strong contender in the used car market as well.
But buying a used Honda City isn’t just about finding a clean car, it’s about knowing which generation gives the best value, which variants pack the right features, and what you should expect in terms of running costs. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know before bringing home a used City, whether it’s for city commuting or highway cruising.
Best Age of Used Honda City to Buy
The Honda City has seen multiple updates over the years. The most relevant models in the used market today are:
- 4th-gen (2014–2020)-Known for spacious interiors, refined petrol and diesel engines, and improved features over its predecessor.
- 5th-gen (2020–present)-Offers a more premium cabin, updated exterior styling, and improved ride quality.
Both generations are available in the used car market, and depreciation plays a key role in choosing the right one for your budget.
Depreciation Overview
| Age of Car | Approx. Depreciation | Expected Price Range (Petrol Manual) |
| 1 year | ~12–15% | ₹10.5-₹12 lakh |
| 2 years | ~18–22% | ₹9.5-₹11 lakh |
| 3–4 years | ~25–35% | ₹7.5-₹9.5 lakh |
| 5+ years | ~40–50% | ₹5.5-₹7 lakh |
*Prices vary based on fuel type, variant, location, and condition.
Best Year to Buy
- If you’re after modern features and long-term use, go for a 3-year-old 5th-gen model (2021). You’ll save significantly on the price while still getting a near-new experience.
- If your budget is tighter, a 4th-gen model from 2018–2019 offers exceptional value. These are reliable, well-equipped, and available at attractive prices.
Best Used Honda City Variant to Buy
The Honda City has always been known for its well-equipped trims, even in lower variants. Over the years, variants like SV, V, VX, and ZX have offered a clear step-up in terms of features and value. Picking the right one depends on your budget and priorities, whether that’s tech, comfort, or safety.
V Variant-Best Balance of Value and Features
If you’re looking for a value-for-money pick in the used Honda City lineup, the V variant stands out:
- Touchscreen infotainment with Bluetooth connectivity
- Rear parking camera and sensors
- Steering-mounted controls and cruise control
- Alloy wheels, keyless entry, and push-button start (on some models)
It offers almost everything a typical buyer needs, without stretching into top-end pricing.
VX and ZX Variants-For the Premium Experience
If you want added flair and safety in your sedan, the VX or ZX variants are worth the premium:
- 6 airbags (ZX), leather upholstery, electric sunroof
- Auto headlamps, LED DRLs, and better touchscreen interface
- Side and curtain airbags (in top trims)
- More refined cabin finish and enhanced noise insulation
Used Honda City Petrol vs Used Honda City Diesel
| Feature | Petrol Honda City | Diesel Honda City |
| Engine | 1.5L i-VTEC (smooth, refined) | 1.5L i-DTEC (torquey, fuel-efficient) |
| Power Output | ~119 hp | ~100 hp |
| Mileage (real-world) | 12–14 kmpl (city), 16–17 kmpl (highway) | 17–19 kmpl (city), 20–23 kmpl (highway) |
| Maintenance Cost | Lower | Slightly higher (diesel service intervals) |
| Ideal Usage | City driving, moderate monthly use | Long commutes, high mileage usage |
- Choose a petrol Honda City if you value smoothness, low NVH, and drive under 12,000 km/year.
- Opt for a diesel Honda City if fuel economy and highway performance matter more, and you regularly drive long distances.
Used Honda City Ownership Calculator
The Honda City is known for its low-maintenance nature and long-term reliability. However, like any car, there are recurring costs you should budget for after purchasing a used model, especially around service, tyres, battery, and insurance.
Here’s a breakdown of typical ownership expenses (excluding EMI and fuel):
1. Annual Service & Maintenance
| Component | Petrol Variant (₹) | Diesel Variant (₹) |
| Routine Service (Yearly) | ₹5,000-₹7,000 | ₹6,500-₹9,000 |
| Engine Oil & Filter | Included | Included |
| Brake Pads & Coolant | Minor extra costs | Slightly higher |
Petrol versions are generally cheaper to maintain and service than diesel counterparts.
2. Tyre Replacement (Every 40,000–50,000 km)
- Tyre size: 175/65 R15 or 185/55 R16 depending on variant
- Replacement cost (Set of 4): ₹20,000-₹30,000
3. Battery Replacement (Every 3–4 years)
- Petrol: ₹3,500-₹5,000
- Diesel: ₹4,500-₹6,000
4. Insurance Renewal (Annual)
| Vehicle Age | Approximate Insurance Cost |
| 1–2 years | ₹12,000-₹16,000 |
| 3–4 years | ₹8,000-₹12,000 |
Opt for a comprehensive plan that includes zero-depreciation cover for newer cars.
5. Common Wear-and-Tear Replacements
| Part | Estimated Cost (₹) |
| Brake Pads | ₹2,000-₹3,500 |
| Clutch Overhaul (Diesel) | ₹8,000-₹12,000 |
| Suspension Work | ₹6,000-₹10,000 |
| Wiper Set | ₹700-₹1,000 |
Average Annual Ownership Cost
| Cost Category | Petrol (₹/Year) | Diesel (₹/Year) |
| Service & Maintenance | ₹6,000 | ₹8,000 |
| Tyres (annualised) | ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 |
| Insurance | ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 |
| Repairs & Misc. | ₹3,000-₹5,000 | ₹4,000-₹6,000 |
| Total (Est.) | ₹24,000-₹28,000 | ₹27,000-₹31,000 |
Upgrades for Used Honda City
The Honda City is already a well-equipped sedan, but a few thoughtful upgrades can elevate your ownership experience, especially if you’re buying a mid-variant or an older generation. Whether it’s for comfort, tech, or aesthetics, here are the top enhancements to consider:
1. Infotainment and Audio Upgrades
- Older V and SV variants may lack touchscreen or smartphone integration.
- You can upgrade to a 7″ or 9″ touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
- Add aftermarket speakers or underseat subwoofers to boost sound clarity.
Estimated cost: ₹15,000-₹35,000
2. Reverse Camera and Parking Sensors
- Many earlier models only have basic parking sensors or none at all.
- Install a high-resolution reverse camera or a 360-degree system for added safety.
Estimated cost: ₹3,000-₹10,000
3. Seat Covers and Interior Refinement
- Install leatherette or premium fabric seat covers to refresh the cabin.
- Add steering wheel covers, floor mats, and ambient lighting for comfort and visual appeal.
Estimated cost: ₹7,000-₹15,000
4. LED Headlamps and DRLs
- Upgrade halogen bulbs to LED projector units for better visibility.
- Add aftermarket DRLs if your variant doesn’t come with them.
Estimated cost: ₹5,000-₹12,000
5. Alloy Wheels and Tyres
- If your used Honda City has steel wheels, consider switching to dual-tone alloys or machine-cut designs.
- You can also upgrade to premium tyres for better ride quality and braking.
Estimated cost: ₹25,000-₹40,000
6. Connectivity and Convenience Add-ons
- Add wireless charging pads, Bluetooth TPMS (tyre pressure monitors), or dashboard cameras for added convenience and safety.
Estimated cost: ₹2,000-₹10,000
Summary
The used Honda City continues to be one of the most reliable, comfortable, and value-rich sedans you can buy. With its refined engine, spacious cabin, and excellent long-term reliability, it appeals equally to daily commuters and long-distance drivers.
- 3–5-year-old models (2018–2021) offer the best mix of depreciation, features, and condition.
- The V variant offers great value, while VX and ZX are perfect if you want premium features.
- Choose petrol for city use and low maintenance. Go for diesel if you drive long distances and want better mileage.
- Expect annual ownership costs of ₹24,000–₹31,000, depending on the fuel type and usage.
- With smart upgrades like infotainment systems, leather seat covers, and LED lighting, you can modernize and personalize your car to your needs.
FAQs about Used Honda City
Q. Is the Honda City a reliable option in the used car market?
Yes, the Honda City is known for its durability, refined engine, and low maintenance. Many owners report using the City for over a decade with minimal issues, making it a safe choice for used buyers.
Q. Which generation of the Honda City is best to buy used?
The 4th-gen (2014–2020) offers great value and features for budget-conscious buyers. The 5th-gen (2020–present) is ideal if you want updated tech, premium interiors, and a more modern design.
Q. What is the mileage of a used Honda City?
Petrol variants deliver around 12–14 kmpl in city and up to 17 kmpl on highways.
Diesel variants offer 17–19 kmpl in city and can reach 20–23 kmpl on long highway runs.Q. Does the used Honda City come with safety features?
Yes. Even the mid variants include ABS, airbags, and rear parking sensors. Top-end models offer 6 airbags, LED headlamps, and stability control in newer generations.
Q. Is it better to buy a manual or automatic Honda City?
Manual variants offer better mileage and more control, ideal for highway or mixed-use.
CVT automatic models are smoother and more convenient for city driving, especially in traffic.
