2026-07-18 · 6 min read
Honda City Generations Guide — GD / GE / GM / GN Which to Buy?
Honda City GD (2002), GE (2008), GM6/GM2 (2014), GN2 (2020) — differences, pros and cons, and second-hand prices in Malaysia.
The Honda City has been sold in Malaysia since 2002 across four distinct generations. Each has different engines, reliability profiles, and common issues. Here's a practical comparison to help you choose.
GD (2002–2007) — The original
Engine: 1.5L i-DSI (two spark plugs per cylinder). Very fuel-efficient for its era but gutless by modern standards. Mostly high-mileage now. Rust and wear are the main concerns at this age. Good as a very cheap first car, expect higher maintenance costs.
GE (2008–2013) — Improved, still simple
Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC (same basic engine as GM6). Smoother, more modern feel. CVT introduced on this generation — same CVT judder risk if fluid has never been changed. Better value than GD but check CVT carefully.
GM6 / GM2 (2014–2019) — The sweet spot
The most popular used City choice. Modern interior, better safety, well-sorted engine. Main issues: CVT judder (fluid change fixes it), engine mount wear at high mileage. Prices are reasonable for the quality. The GM2 (1.5L VTEC Turbo, 6MT) is rarer and sought-after.
GN2 (2020–present) — The modern one
Engine: 1.5L VTEC Turbo (standard) or 1.5L i-VTEC (E variant). The turbo GN2 is the most powerful City yet. Better safety (Honda Sensing on higher trims). RS gets 7DCT instead of CVT. Newer cars mean higher prices but far fewer mileage-related issues. The turbo demands full-synthetic oil and on-time changes.