Honda City facelift spied testing: What to expect from Verna, Virtus rival

Honda is preparing to introduce a mid-cycle update for the City sedan, with development already underway. A partially camouflaged prototype has been spotted on public roads in Brazil, indicating that testing is in progress ahead of its global debut. The refreshed model is expected to arrive in the second half of 2026. A single image revealing the rear of the updated City has surfaced from testing. Earlier reports suggested the facelift could draw styling cues from the new Civic, but the latest spy shot indicates only minor revisions rather than a full redesign.

The test car’s rear remains largely unchanged, indicating the Honda City facelift will retain its existing silhouette. Minor updates are visible, including revised tail-lamps, a reworked rear bumper and a new set of alloy wheels, pointing to limited design changes. At the front, the update is expected to be more noticeable, with a redesigned bumper, a new grille and slimmer headlamps. Changes to the lower grille and slight revisions to the bonnet are also likely. Overall, the facelift appears to focus on incremental styling updates rather than a full redesign.


The facelifted Honda City is expected to receive interior updates focused on features and comfort. Likely additions include a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats and an updated infotainment system with improved connectivity. The cabin may also get revised upholstery with new materials or colour options. Overall, the changes are expected to enhance convenience and equipment levels without major alterations to the interior layout.

Mechanically, it’s expected to remain the same and will continue to get two engine options - a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, NA petrol engine that puts out 121bhp and 145Nm of torque and comes paired either with a 6-speed MT or a CVT gearbox. There’s also a segment-first hybrid powertrain offer: a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle hybrid engine with 124 hp and 253 Nm of torque.

Image: Instagram/autosegredos