Honda City ZX

Honda City, powered by a rip-snorting version of the 1.5 i-DSI motor. Known simply as the VTEC, most of the bits that make up this motor, especially the bottom half, are actually identical to those found on the i-DSI engine. Displacing 1497cc, the same capacity as the existing City’s mill, this engine also uses the same long-stroke pistons as the i-DSI. What’s all new is the engine’s head. Four valves per cylinder instead of two allow the new engine to breathe deeper, and Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing and lift lets the engineers optimise low and high engine speed performance as well. The increase in power, to the tune of an additional 20bhp from the same capacity, is astonishing. The new City ZX VTEC now feels light-footed and eager, shrinking gaps in traffic in an effortless manner, something the i-DSI never achieved. Already, this City feels a proper Honda — first at the lights, pole position, a little wheelspin, an alert tachometer and a gratifying surge of power. In comparison, the i-DSI feels like a good diesel. The top of the VTEC’s power band, the sharp end, is a total delight. The motor snarls past 5000rpm, you get a firm shove from the seatback and the City surges forward towards its redline. Using the top end of the power band, even for short periods, is addictive. The motor loves to be revved but also feels well oiled, smooth and refined at the same time. It also changes the character of the car from good transport to a fun drive. While this City ZX VTEC cannot spin to 7000-plus rpm like the old car did, keeping the motor blaring and the power flowing is intensely pleasurable. Also important, as far as driving pleasure is concerned, is the fact that Honda has recalibrated the otherwise ultra-light Electric Power Steering system. The recalibration improves efficiency and also reduces some power loss.