The main headlines were stolen by hat-trick star Alvaro Negredo and Sergio Aguero, who took his tally for the season to 13 with another two goals.City's flow was twice interrupted by goals from Seydou Doumbia - the second a penalty and both highlighting defensive concerns - but the result was never in doubt after Aguero claimed his first from the spot after three minutes.
City were taught a lesson by Bayern Munich earlier in their campaign but have won their other three Group D matches comfortably and manager Manuel Pellegrini believes they can now challenge any side.
Asked if City could beat anybody, Pellegrini said: "I think so but, at this level, also every team can beat us.
"There are some important teams in Europe but I think we have a strong squad and we'll see where we can go in this Champions League."
Manchester City Fixtures
Sunday November 10
14:05 Premier League
Sunderland v Manchester City
Sunday November 24
13:30 Premier League
Manchester City v Tottenham
Wednesday November 27
19:45 Champions League - Group D
Manchester City v Plzen
Sunday December 1
16:10 Premier League
Manchester City v Swansea City
Wednesday December 4
20:00 Premier League
West Brom v Manchester City
Saturday December 7
15:00Premier League
Southampton v Manchester City