** This article is published on WapCar Community, represent the opinion of users. Click the link below to enter the community for car enthusiasts in Malaysia
https://www.wapcar.my/forum

Basic information

Honda City (2005) IDSI 1.5

Reason why I bought this car

Talking about this ride, it actually belongs to my lady, and she has been using this car from 2005 till now!

A little background about why this purchase was made, the reason is that her old Proton WIRA(M) 1.3GLI been posing a lot of issues, (mostly engine issues),  

So, guess what?, its time to shop for a new ride!

We’ve set certain criteria prior to the selection process:

1) It has to be reliable

2) It has to be a “sedan”

3) Wonderful fuel consumption

4) Aasy to manage (from size perspective) and most importantly, fit the wonderful budget of RM80k ++  

Reason why I Chose this car

Well, then my homework (back then) is to start researching based on all of these criteria, we’ve managed to narrow this down to 2 model (mainly the Toyota VIOS and Honda CITY.

Then, we compare the 2 even deeper: in terms of fuel consumptions, trunk space and safety feature!

We found, both of this car came real close side-by-side,both have almost all similarity (in terms of fuel consumption, cabin spaciousness, even reliability). But then, the City became our final selection based on this 2 key criteria that the VIOS can’t match:-

1. The entire rear seat can be fold down, hence, we have a longer trunk space,
2. secondly, nothing can beat the fuel consumption of the Honda City IDSI, this I can swear on it!

Well, you must be wondering what’s our feedback after all these years right?

1. Yes, its definitely reliable, so far, there’s no issues over the accessories, engines or even the transmission except the usual wear-n-tear parts (the transmission is where we heard many negative feedback about for this model), and yes, we don’t find that similar issue here, and there’s a secret to maintain this CVT transmission , and that is get it serviced regularly, and please, do not always floor the accelerator while driving, you gotta “take it easy” on the accelerator, and I’m sure the transmission will be fine as well!)
2. Talking about the ride, I’d say its definitely comfort, the 185/60/R14 has definitely did a good job, and everyone knows Honda City is designed for fuel efficiency and comfort, what could I ask for more?
3. In terms of NVH, well, I’d say its definitely acceptable by both of us, no complains at all till now!
4. In terms of engine performance and responsiveness, please understand that this is a car designed with “fuel efficiency in mind” , hence, guess I don’t have to explain more about this, I guess? Or , let me just explain a little, if you’re expecting a quicker response like from the VIOS, I’d say a NO-NO, please don’t get this car then, as the SOHC 1.5 IDSI engine is actually a 1.3l engine converted into 1.5, and secondly, the AT transmission on the VIOS is definitely more responsive, if you’re to compare it to the CVT transmission on this CITY. But what I can say,? More power means, higher fuel consumption too!

User experience

• I have done about 100k KM.

Overall experience is great! No real complaints about the car except for a few points, well every car does have its own pros- n cons I must say.And in terms of maintaining this car, I'm telling you its quite economical.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Great and reliable work horse.
• Excellent fuel efficiency.
• Economical maintenance costs (compared with the same segment of other brands).
• Noise insulation (so-so, already aging) * spareparts easily sourceable.

Cons

• The Honda city is quite a light car (its not heavy), hence when you closed the door, you’ll hear it slams like some empty-cans and don’t sound solid.
• The steering tends to feels “light-as-well” when running on high speed,  
• Tends to oversteer a little as well, but then, guess its all chainreaction because of the soft comfort suspension, with the comfort 14 inch, 60’s profile tyres.
• Yes, poor audio system (that original Miami Blaunpunkt) really drowned the stock speakers performance. Changed it to a new Android infotainment and was surprised the speakers are not bad as well!

Ratings

Total Score: 5
Performance: 3
Quality & Features: 4
Space: 4
Ride Comfort: 4
Fuel Economy: 5
Price & Cost: 5

📢📢Announcement:

After reading a countless number of Owner Review stories, are you interested in sharing your own story also? WapCar sincerely invites YOU to share the genuine feelings of your car!

You may receive special souvenirs from WapCar! Sign up now to know more! WapCar staff will contact you shortly after you sign up.