Honda continues to champion the practicality and appeal of subcompact hatchbacks, recently amplified with the arrival of the refreshed Honda City Hatchback RS. Positioned as a compelling alternative for those who prefer compact versatility over the bulkier SUV trend, this model merges style, technology, practicality, and performance.
The City Hatchback RS stands tall with Honda’s trusted brand reputation and an enhanced suite of features, making it a top contender in its class. We drove one for a week to see if the updates this year complement the added price tag, and to see how it performs as a daily driver.
The Honda City Hatchback RS exudes a sporty yet refined vibe that distinguishes it from the crowd. The facelift brings subtle but impactful changes, such as a honeycomb grille, a redesigned bumper, and a restyled fog lamp housing, giving the front end a sharper look. The new side skirts and rear diffuser enhance the sporty character, while the sleek 16-inch black alloy wheels add a bold touch.
Topping off the visual upgrade is the Sonic Grey Pearl paint option, borrowed from the Honda Civic Type R FK8, lending a modern, sophisticated edge, though the red tester that I drove come with Modulo kits that customers can purchase right off the showroom. These design tweaks are more than just cosmetic; they improve the car’s road presence without compromising its practical dimensions. They add more pizzazz to the already sporty demeanor of the City Hatchback, though admittedly, you’ll enjoy the car even without these added kits.
Step inside, and the Honda City Hatchback RS greets you with a cabin that balances functionality with a premium feel. The layout remains intuitive, with controls easily within reach. Noteworthy upgrades include a leather-wrapped steering wheel that enhances the tactile experience and an 8-inch touchscreen system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity.
A highlight of the interior is the ULTR (Utility, Long, Tall, Refresh) seating configuration system. This innovative feature allows for various seat arrangements to maximize cargo space, making the hatchback exceptionally versatile. Whether you need room for tall items, long cargo, or just want a flat space to relax, the City Hatchback delivers unparalleled flexibility. Despite some use of hard plastics, the inclusion of soft-touch materials and leather in key areas elevates the overall cabin quality, making it feel more upscale than typical subcompact competitors.
The Honda City Hatchback RS isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also a technological powerhouse. The inclusion of the Honda Sensing suite marks a significant leap forward in safety and driver assistance. This system enhances the driving experience with features like Lead Car Departure Notification, which alerts the driver when the car in front moves ahead, and Adaptive Cruise Control, which adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
The Collision Mitigation Braking System helps apply brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of frontal collisions, while the Lane Keep Assist System and Road Departure Mitigation ensure the car stays centered in its lane. Additionally, Auto High Beam automatically switches between high and low beams based on traffic conditions. Complementing these features is the Walk Away Auto Door Lock, which secures the vehicle when you walk away. The inclusion of six airbags further enhances occupant safety, reinforcing Honda’s commitment to protecting drivers and passengers.
Under the hood, the City Hatchback RS is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine delivering 119 horsepower and 145 Nm of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), this engine offers a spirited and responsive driving experience. Honda’s mastery of CVT technology ensures smooth power delivery, making city commutes and highway cruises equally enjoyable.
The car’s handling is a standout feature, offering agility and precision whether navigating tight urban streets or tackling open highways. The suspension strikes a perfect balance between comfort and control, absorbing road imperfections while maintaining stability. Even when fully loaded, the engine’s performance remains robust, making the City Hatchback RS a reliable companion for both daily drives and weekend getaways.
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor in the subcompact segment, and the Honda City Hatchback RS does not disappoint, with a combined fuel economy figure of 15 km/L – so competitive, it makes for a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious drivers.
The refreshed Honda City Hatchback RS is more than just a stylish subcompact—it’s a well-rounded package that excels in design, comfort, technology, and performance. At PHP 1,189,000, it might not be the cheapest in the subcompact class, but the value it offers in terms of advanced safety features, premium interior touches, and Honda’s reliable performance justifies the price.
For those seeking an alternative to the SUV craze, the Honda City Hatchback RS is a refreshing option that does not compromise on quality or versatility. It’s a car that caters to both practical needs and the desire for a fun, engaging drive. Whether you’re a city dweller or someone who enjoys the occasional road trip, the City Hatchback RS is well worth considering.
