Launched in 2020, the fifth-generation Honda City received a facelift in 2023, and as it enters its sixth year on sale, the Japanese carmaker will update it again in the latter half of 2026. This second City facelift will essentially serve as a stopgap until the sixth-gen model arrives in 2028, allowing Honda to keep the midsize sedan fresh while rivals such as the Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia will also be facelifted next year.
- 2026 Honda City facelift will feature updated styling in line with company’s global models
- City facelift interior is expected to receive slight changes, such as new trim and upholstery
- 121hp 1.5-litre petrol engine will be carried forward with manual and CVT options
2026 Honda City facelift exterior and interior updates
Styling could draw inspiration from Civic and other global Hondas
Though test mules haven’t been spotted yet, the majority of changes for the 2026 City facelift are expected to be on the outside. Honda may make revisions to the grille, bumpers, headlights, tail-lights, wheels, and more to bring the 2026 City facelift in line with global models such as the Civic.
Interior to see subtle revisions
Inside, the 2026 Honda City facelift is expected to sport mild changes, such as new trim pieces and upholstery. The overall interior layout and equipment list are likely to be largely unchanged, with a possible addition of an optional 360-degree camera, like in the Elevate.
2026 Honda City facelift engine and gearbox
1.5-litre i-VTEC engine to be retained
The 2026 City facelift will carry on unchanged on the mechanical front, offering only a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine developing 121hp and 145Nm, mated to either a 6-speed manual or a CVT automatic. The City e:HEV hybrid will also be available alongside the petrol variants, retaining the current model’s 126hp (combined) 1.5-litre engine and CVT gearbox setup.
