Honda City Car- The Hyundai Verna, the most powerful rival to the Honda City, is set to receive a subtle facelift for 2026. The update includes refined front and rear bumpers, enhanced interiors with larger 12.3-inch screens, and possibly rear ventilated seats. The 1.5L turbo petrol engine delivering 158 bhp remains unchanged, maintaining its performance lead in the segment. Expected to launch during the 2025 festive season, the facelift aims to boost Verna’s appeal amid.
Honda City Car
The Indian sedan segment is gearing up for an exciting update as the Hyundai Verna, widely recognized as the most powerful rival to the Honda City, has been spotted undergoing testing with a fresh design facelift. Known for its aggressive styling and segment-leading performance, the Verna is preparing to enhance its appeal with updated aesthetics and upgraded features. This timely refresh comes at a crucial juncture, as the compact sedan market faces intense competition from the growing popularity of SUVs, making each update vital for maintaining market relevance.
Design
The existing Verna is renowned for its polarizing yet striking design that commands attention on Indian roads. Its space-ship-like front fascia features a body-width LED light bar at both ends and a sportback-inspired silhouette, giving it a dynamic, aggressive presence. The facelift is expected to subtly refine these signature design elements rather than overhaul them. Though spy images suggest that the design changes will be minor, they are likely to focus on updated front and rear bumpers, revised air intake patterns, and fresh tail light graphics.
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Interior & Advanced Features
Inside, the Verna facelift is expected to receive significant attention. Building upon the already impressive cabin, the updated version may feature larger 12.3-inch screens for both the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster, mirroring advances seen in models like the Kia Syros. Hyundai might introduce rear ventilated seats — a rare and highly desirable feature in this segment further elevating passenger comfort. The current Verna boasts a dual-screen setup with advanced connectivity and comfort features.
Performance
While the exterior and interior see updates, the Verna’s powertrain lineup is expected to remain unchanged. The model continues to offer a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 115 hp, alongside a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine delivering 160 hp. This retention is a strategic choice, given that the Verna already leads the segment in performance. The facelift could enhance these with improved ambient lighting, upgraded upholstery materials, enhanced smartphone integration, and possibly wireless charging options.
Engine
The 1.5-litre turbo engine remains the most powerful in the segment, with a power output approximately 10 bhp higher than rivals such as the Volkswagen Slavia and Virtus, and significantly outperforming the Honda City Hybrid. The naturally aspirated engine caters to buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing reasonable power, and it is paired with a CVT automatic option. The turbocharged variant comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, while both variants offer a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard.
Competitive Landscape & Market Position
- The Hyundai Verna competes against Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia, and Honda City in a highly competitive sedan segment.
- Honda City features a longer and taller body with an elegant design that appeals to a wider audience.
- Verna distinguishes itself with bold styling and superior performance.
- As of June 2025, Hyundai ranks third in sales among these sedans, behind Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia.
- The upcoming facelift is essential for Hyundai to renew buyer interest and boost market share.
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Technology & Safety Features
Hyundai’s Verna currently leads the segment in technology and safety, equipped with an advanced Level 2 autonomous driving system (ADAS) that offers a smart and intuitive driving experience. The facelift is expected to enhance these systems further, potentially adding new features and refining existing ones. Safety remains paramount, with the Verna already boasting a five-star safety rating. The update will maintain these high standards while possibly incorporating the latest safety innovations introduced since the current model’s release.
Detailed Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hyundai Verna | Honda City | Volkswagen Virtus | Skoda Slavia |
| Engine (Turbo) | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 1.5L Hybrid | 1.0L TSI Turbo | 1.0L TSI Turbo |
| Power | 158 bhp | 126 bhp (combined) | 114 bhp | 114 bhp |
| Torque | 253 Nm | 253 Nm (combined) | 178 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Transmission | 6MT / 7DCT | Manual / CVT | 6MT / 6AT | 6MT / 6AT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 18.6-20.6 kmpl | 26.5 kmpl (hybrid) | 16-18 kmpl | 16-18 kmpl |
| Starting Price | ₹11.07 lakh | ₹11.82 lakh | ₹11.56 lakh | ₹11.69 lakh |
| Top-end Price | ₹17.55 lakh | ₹16.35 lakh | ₹18.57 lakh | ₹18.69 lakh |
| Boot Space | 528 liters | 506 liters | 521 liters | 521 liters |
| ADAS | Level 2 | Honda Sensing | Yes | Yes |
Expected Launch Timeline & Pricing
Hyundai is expected to unveil the Verna facelift as a model year 2026 (MY26) version during the festive season of 2025 — a peak period for car sales in India. Pricing for the facelift is likely to see a slight increase, approximately ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 across variants, considering the mechanical components remain largely unchanged. The current Verna’s price range starts at ₹11.07 lakh and goes up to ₹17.55 lakh (ex-showroom).
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Market Implications & Consumer Benefits
The Verna facelift signals Hyundai’s commitment to keeping its sedan portfolio relevant amidst the SUV trend. The updates will appeal to buyers who prefer the sedan’s style, fuel efficiency, and driving dynamics. With performance leadership intact and enhanced features, the Verna promises buyers an attractive package of power, technology, and convenience.
Future Outlook
Though the sedan segment faces challenges due to the rising popularity of SUVs, sedans continue to offer advantages in fuel efficiency, handling, and aerodynamic design. The Verna’s position as a performance leader gives it particular relevance to buyers prioritizing driving pleasure. The success of this facelift may influence Hyundai’s sedan strategy and encourage competitors to continue investing in this segment.
FAQ’S About Honda City Car
When will the Hyundai Verna facelift launch?
Around the festive season of 2025.
Will the engine change in the facelift?
No, the current 1.5L turbo petrol engine remains unchanged.
Will the interior get upgraded?
Yes, larger 12.3-inch screens and possibly rear ventilated seats.
How does Verna’s power compare to Honda City?
Verna offers more power with 158 bhp vs. City’s 126 bhp hybrid.
Conclusion
The upcoming Hyundai Verna facelift is a strategic evolution aimed at reinforcing the sedan’s position as the most powerful and feature-packed option in its segment. While the changes may be subtle rather than revolutionary, they ensure the Verna remains fresh, competitive, and desirable. For sedan buyers seeking a blend of thrilling performance, advanced technology, and modern design, the refreshed Hyundai Verna presents a compelling choice.