The current, fifth-generation Honda City received a facelift in 2023, but the carmaker will launch another update on May 22, 2026, to keep it fresh in the midsize sedan segment. Being a facelift, design updates and feature enhancements are likely, while the petrol and hybrid powertrains could be carried over.
2026 appears to be a prime time for midsize sedans as the Hyundai Verna has already been refreshed, and the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia are also going to get facelifts this year.
1. What exterior updates could the 2026 Honda City facelift get?
As per online spy shots of the upcoming City, its front grille could feature a slatted design. Both the front and rear bumpers could also be updated. Interestingly, the alloy wheels and headlights seen on one of the test mules resembled those of the current car. As for the side profile, changes are unlikely.
2. Which new features are likely on the 2026 Honda City facelift?
The 2026 City facelift could bring goodies like a powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen (as seen in the Honda Elevate) compared to the present 8-inch unit, and an optional 360-degree camera setup, along with new trim pieces and upholstery. The overall interior layout, however, will likely be largely unchanged.
3. What powertrain choices will the 2026 Honda City facelift offer?
As stated earlier, the new City will most likely carry on unchanged on the mechanical front, offering a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 121hp and 145Nm, mated to either a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic. Similarly, the City e:HEV hybrid can retain the current 1.5-litre engine putting out a combined 126hp.
4. How much will 2026 Honda City facelift cost?
As of April 30, the standard Honda City’s prices start at Rs 12 lakh and top out at Rs 16.07 lakh, ex-showroom; the hybrid version costs Rs 20 lakh. Considering the features the City may add, we speculate that the price could increase anywhere between Rs 15,000 and Rs 60,000, depending on the variant. For reference, the Hyundai Verna starts at Rs 10.98 lakh and goes up to Rs 18.4 lakh, while the Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia are priced from Rs 10.5 lakh to Rs 19 lakh, and Rs 10 lakh to Rs 17.99 lakh, respectively.
Saptarshi Mondal
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Rivan RS 
Dipan Sur
