The City Hatchback is expected to be launched in the fourth quarter of the year.
It will be offered in two powertrains: e:HEV hybrid and 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol.
The e:HEV features Honda’s unique hybrid system, that function seamlessly by combining the benefits of petrol and electric power to provide fuel efficiency and power.
The intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) powertrain of the e:HEV delivers powerful and immediate response through two electric motors for effortless drivability and efficiency.
This advanced powertrain delivers 109PS and segment revolutionary 253Nm torque equivalent to a D-segment engine torque performance.
Meanwhile, the petrol-powered version uses a 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC powertrain producing highest in its class with 121PS, and a maximum torque of 145Nm, offering an ideal balance of exciting performance and fuel efficiency for a hatchback body type.
The popular 4-Modes ULTRA Seats feature synonymous with the Honda Jazz, now makes it way into the City Hatchback.
This practical and versatile first in its class feature allows the rear seats to be folded flat or flipped up in four configuration modes; Utility, Long, Tall and Refresh, to suit different needs of storage space by maximizing the rear space creatively when transporting items.
The City Hatchback RS e:HEV also comes with Rear Air Conditioning Ventilation.
Another advanced and first-in-segment feature in the City Hatchback is the Remote Engine Start for RS e:HEV and V variants, which provides added convenience, enabling the driver to remotely activate the engine and air-conditioning before entering the car.
An additional segment-first feature for RS e:HEV and V variants is Honda LaneWatch, a camera-based advanced safety technology which reduces blind spots by providing real-time visual in the infotainment system when left turn signal is activated or LaneWatch button is pressed.
The exterior of RS e:HEV and V variants come with LED Headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), LED Front Fog Lights, LED Rear Combi Lights and is fitted with attractive 16-inch alloy wheels that complement the appearance of the car.
The RS e: HEV also gets an exclusive appearance such as a High-Gloss Piano Black Front Grille, Black Solid Wing and Gloss Black Door Mirrors for a two-toned colour expression and RS exclusive styling for the Lower Grille, Fog Garnish and Rear Bumper.
The Rear Bumper is specifically designed for hatchback and equipped with a sophisticated diffusor, making the rear look more active with a younger impression.
In addition to Electric Parking Brake (EPB), another exclusive feature for the RS e:HEV is Honda SENSING driver assistance safety systems that includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High Beam (AHB).
Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Madoka Chujo said the introduction of the City Hatchback is a key milestone for company as it is the first time the City model is offered in a hatchback bodytype.
“Hatchbacks are well-known for the sporty and cool design in a compact size, which also gives an impression of a car that is easy to be driven everywhere.
“Additionally, new age hatchback cars are also developed to deliver optimum performance that is comparable with sedans and SUVs.
“Honda Malaysia now offers customers with best in class torque performance as well as advanced technological features, all housed in the stylish and sporty All-New City Hatchback.”
Chujo also said Honda was not new to the hatchback segment in Malaysia as the popular Jazz which was introduced back in 2003 has sold more than 122,000 units to-date.
“The Jazz is well-known for its practicality and versatility, and is highly popular as one of Malaysians’ favourite urban car. We believe with the introduction of the City Hatchback, this model will raise the benchmark to be another game-changer in the market and soon to be Malaysians’ most favourite hatchback car,” she said.
