This is in response to the feedback regarding Honda City. My Honda City IDsi 2006, purchased new, now has 34000 km. I have been driving for 18 years and have been fortunate enough to have driven several cars in Pakistan and overseas during this time frame. During this review, I have tried to provide relevent information to prospetive buyers and current users.
Noticed Advantages:
Roomy Interior.
Interesting, out of the box Exterior Styling.
Large Car for the Money, Roomy Interior/Roomy Trunk
Fuel Mileage high if kept below 80 and driven GENTLY.
Even base model comes fully loaded.
High Tech Engine
Shortcomings:
Poor Handling, Cornering (even with replaced-imported tires).
Poor High Speed Stability (car seems to be going much faster than it really is)
Poor Braking, almost as bad as that of Corolla (I am really surprised at comments rating the brakes as good)
Brakes need frequent servicing. My brake Pads had to be changed at 20000km and is now again requires brake servicing.
Interior of the Car is not Durable enough and will see premature ageing. The interior of the car feels cheap and poorly stamped.
Rough Ride on even smooth Roads.
Flexible Body Structure. Rattles from the Body. DashBoard shakes.
Constant Corrections to the steering are needed to keep the car going in a straight line.
Only 2 poor sounding speakers and a Cassette Radio in a Rs. 900000+ Car?
Paint scratches easily and will see premature ageing as well.
Executive Summary for Prospective Buyers:
I also own a 2004 Santro (44,000 km and a Corolla 2004 (1300cc Gli) with 90,000 km. My overall impression is that although Corolla has its shortcomings, an Xli makes for a better overall car than the City. My Corolla certainly feels tighter and more solid even after 90000 km than my 2 year old city. Given the choice, I am likely to opt for a corolla in the 1300cc segment. Corolla 1300cc has a far superior pick as well and its interior, exterior and paint are going to have a long life as well.
If your are on budget (less than 450,000) but also want a fun drive, try to find a Suzuki Margalla in decent condition, it makes for a GREAT car. Good Predictable brakes, Excellent high speed stability, Beautiful pick even on CNG, Smooth drive. Suzuki Margalla remains the best kept secret in Pakistan. Try to find one in good original condition and you are really gonna enjoy its generally beautiful drive, a car that feels rock solid stable even at 140, something that i cannot claim for my brand new Honda city