The Grace is essentially a Honda City saloon (commonly fitted with the 1.5L i‑VTEC petrol engine) and many petrol examples use a CVT automatic — there are also hybrid Grace/City models, so double-check this is petrol-only. CVT-equipped cars need periodic transmission fluid service and have a different feel on the road (smooth but can show a ‘rubber‑band’ response); if the dealer hasn’t confirmed the gearbox, ask for a clear statement and any CVT service receipts.

• Confirm the transmission type and do a thorough road‑test: if CVT listen for rubber‑banding, hesitation under acceleration and loud whine; if manual check clutch bite and slip under load.
• Ask for CVT/gearbox service invoices or evidence of fluid changes (CVT fluid life is important) or clutch replacement records if manual.
• Inspect for corrosion around sills, rear wheel arches and underside — Irish salt and age can show on 11‑year‑old examples.
• Check suspension/steering for knocks and play (bushes, anti‑roll bar links and steering rack), and ensure brakes rear/front operate smoothly without judder.
• Verify it’s not actually a hybrid (look for EV-specific gauges, charge indicators, or an additional hybrid badge) and confirm HVAC works well — A/C weak on older city cars can be an expensive repair.