I got a Honda City GXi in September 2004 and I dont have words to describe my experience. To say the least I havent driven a more comfortable car as yet - and I have owned an Ambassador, a Fiat (Premier Padmini), a Maruti 800, a Maruti Zen, A Maruti Esteem, an Opel Corsa, a Hyundai Santro and a Maruti Alto thus far in the last 15 years.
One never expected an Amby or a Fiat of yore to be comfy - as against today’s cars. But even while speaking of the other contemporaries, Honda City beat them all. The Electric Power Steering provided is one of the lightest steerings you would come across. Maybe Toyota offers a similar steering power. Maruti too offers EPS but their cars are smaller and their tyres are slimmer - so not to be compared with this car.
The interiors are a bit flashy but they are unique. The beige trims and consoles are a delight. The external design may not please the females too much, but the compactness is a functional utility when driving in Delhi. The mileage I am getting without my third service (now due) is around 14kmpl in city.
The height adjustable driving seat, the adjustable steering - both add to driving convenience and flexibility. The seats are comfortable and it is a delight to go on long drives in your Honda. It responds to your command like a faithful pet. The cabin is quite silent with windows rolled up and there is no vibration to feel too. It may become difficult at times to guess whether the engine is off or purring.
The stereo provided looks excellent thought I would say that because this car has become too popular the stereo has lost its appeal and is now available in the open market for as low as Rs 4000. I got it fixed in my own Alto for Rs 4000. Honda could have offered a CD Player instead.
Not one to go into technical details and specifications, I am stressing only on the laymans points.
Just one improvement needed - the ground clearance. It scrapes speed breakers even with 2 people at the back seat. So it hurts not only the car but also the owner when that thudding sound is heard while driving over a breaker.
Otherwise a good and comfortable car - with different looks and great performance.