The SX8 City was Honda’s ‘economical car’ specially designed for the ASEAN market during the downturn of 1996/1997. Rather than spending more resources on developing a completely new car, they looked in their parts bin, grabbed the previous EF-series Civic chassis, restyled the interior and exterior and plunked in their proven D-series engine. It may be mostly recycled but still pleasantly styled and had the looks of a smaller version of the then out-going EK-series Civic when launched.
Externally the City was rather compact, measuring 4225mm end-to-end. Next to the EF Civic donor, it was much rounded at the edges with noticeably increased ground clearance than the former’s sporty low slung profile. A facelift took place in 1999 giving it crystal lamps in front and rear, revised bumpers, new interior fabric pattern, more modern interior layout together with a new badge called the Type-Z. Before the final send off, it was offered with ABS in the VTEC-equipped version.
Like most Japanese cars of the 90s the interior layout is pretty much straight forward: easy to use, all controls within reach and of course acres of grey coloured panels made mostly from durable hard-plastics. Still, unlike some ‘cheap’ alternatives offered even now, all the parts were very well assembled and aligned consistently while 4-power windows were standard even for the base 1.3 model. Similar to the donor, the driver’s seat is a tad low and without height adjustment thus it was common for some drivers to add a cushion for extra height. Rear passenger space is more than sufficient for 2 but will experience a bit of shoulder-rubbing with 3. Of course, there is the 3rd box in the rear to accommodate more items than a hatchback.
Back when it was first launched, there was just a 1.3-litre D13B mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed slushbox. Drivetrain response was not to be hurried especially in the automatic. Later on, a bigger 1.5-litre unit was fitted, providing better pulling power for a more relaxed drive. The Type-Z version was offered only with auto transmissions and was finally fitted with a SOHC VTEC-controlled D15B after the turn of the millennium.
At the wheel, one gets reminded on how previous Hondas were related to their sporting pedigree. Whilst it lacked electric assisting gizmos, the mechanical setup from the all-round McPherson struts provides sufficient amount of grip and composure in the corners. The hydraulic driven steering is nicely weighted and feedbacks plenty of road-feel from the wheels. Of course the pick of the bunch is the VTEC for a more engaging drive although it is nothing like the B or H series when being engaged, even though the usual 1.5-litre Hyper engine will see through most daily needs, returning rather encouraging fuel efficiency.
Mechanically the City shares a lot of parts with the EF, and some from the EG or EK-series Civics beginning from the doors, steering system, D-series engine as well as transmission. However being a region-specific model, some cosmetic or external parts are easier to source from Thailand. Used prices start from a lowly RM13000 for a 1.3 to around RM30000 for a last batch of Type-Z VTEC.
No comments:
Post a Comment