Honda City Aspire S facelift launched, users call it “fakelift”

ISLAMABAD: Honda Atlas has officially launched the much hyped and awaited 2025 Honda City Aspire S facelift in Pakistan, adding a fresh variant to its long-running sedan lineup.

While the company promises a sportier look and updated features, it has failed to impress the Honda car lovers and critics.

Early reactions from users suggest disappointment, with many calling the changes “cosmetic” rather than groundbreaking.

The new city comes with two new colors (Canyon River Blue and Ignite Red)

PRICING AND BOOKING

The new Honda City Aspire S Facelift is priced at PKR 6.149 million (ex-factory) with booking amounts starting from PKR 2 million, according to dealers.

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The car retains Honda’s trusted mechanical base but adds cosmetic upgrades aimed at giving it a sportier appeal.

SPECS AND FEATURES

Engine: 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine, 118hp, 145Nm torque

Transmission: CVT automatic (front-wheel drive)

Boot space: 510 liters (largest in its category)

Exterior upgrades: LED headlights and fog lamps, dark chrome grille, black spoiler, LED taillights

Interior upgrades: Leather-wrapped steering and gear lever, leather seats with stripe design, push start, keyless entry, rear AC vents, dual USB fast-charging ports, 9-inch infotainment with navigation and wired Android Auto

Safety and Comfort: Cruise control, 6-speaker system, eco mode, auto-retractable side mirrors

USER REACTIONS – “NO INNOVATION”

While Honda Atlas markets the Aspire S as a sportier, better-equipped City, many car enthusiasts online are far from impressed. On social media, the response has been mixed, with most users criticizing the facelift as underwhelming.

“Innovation took a holiday here,” wrote one Facebook user.

Another sarcastically asked, “Facelift or fakelift?”

Some compared it to Pakistan’s legendary slow-updating model: “They’ll never grow out of this box! Mehran from Honda Atlas… 15 more years to go!”

The Honda City Aspire S Facelift offers cosmetic and comfort upgrades but no mechanical improvements. At a price tag of more than Rs 6 million, buyers were expecting more advanced features, especially when rivals in the sedan category offer stronger value propositions.

For now, it remains an option for those who want a mid-range, dependable City with a fresher look, but for many enthusiasts, the facelift falls short of expectations.