Toyota Vios 1.3 E CVT (2016) vs Honda City 1.5 E MT (2018)

Toyota Vios 1.3 E CVT (2016) vs Honda City 1.5 E MT (2018): which should you buy?

For a Filipino buyer weighing cost, performance and driving feel, the 2018 Honda City 1.5 E MT edges out the 2016 Toyota Vios 1.3 E CVT in most practical aspects. The City is ₱21,000 cheaper (₱820,000 vs ₱841,000) and offers a larger 1.5‑litre engine that delivers 120 PS and 145 Nm, noticeably more power and torque than the Vios’s 99 PS and 123 Nm. That translates to stronger acceleration for city and highway overtaking. The City’s 5‑speed manual transmission also appeals to drivers who prefer direct control and better fuel‑efficiency at low speeds, whereas the Vios’s CVT provides a smoother but less engaging ride. Although the Vios is a newer‑looking 2016 model, both share the same 3‑year/100,000 km warranty, FWD layout, 4‑door sedan body and unibody construction, making practicality identical. If you value a lower purchase price, higher output, and a manual gearbox for a more involved driving experience, the Honda City is the better choice. Conversely, buyers who prioritize the convenience of an automatic CVT and are willing to pay a modest premium may still consider the Vios, especially if they prefer a slightly newer model year.