In the ever-evolving landscape of the Indian automotive market, the Honda Amaze has carved a niche for itself as a reliable, efficient, and stylish compact sedan. Launched with the promise of delivering a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency,

the Honda Amaze has become a favorite among urban commuters and small families alike. One of its standout features is its commendable mileage of 26 kilometers per liter (kmpl), making it an economical choice for daily driving. This article delves into the various facets of the Honda Amaze, exploring what makes it a compelling option in the competitive compact sedan segment.

Introduction to the Honda Amaze

The Honda Amaze made its debut in the Indian market in 2013, swiftly gaining popularity for its spacious interior, robust build quality, and reliable performance. Over the years, Honda has continuously refined the Amaze,

introducing updates and enhancements to keep it relevant and appealing to modern consumers. The latest iteration of the Amaze retains its core strengths while integrating advanced features and technologies to meet the demands of contemporary drivers.

Design and Styling

The Honda Amaze exudes a sophisticated and understated elegance that appeals to a broad demographic. Its design philosophy centers around simplicity and functionality, ensuring that the car remains timeless while catering to the aesthetic preferences of today’s buyers.

Exterior Design:

Sleek Profile: The Amaze features a streamlined silhouette with smooth curves and clean lines, giving it a polished and professional appearance.
Front Fascia: A bold front grille, complemented by sleek LED headlamps and daytime running lights, enhances the car’s presence on the road. The chrome accents and well-defined bumper add to its premium look.
Side Profile: The side view showcases a well-proportioned body with chrome door handles, stylish alloy wheels, and ample window glass that contribute to its elegant stance.
Rear Design: The rear is equally refined, with a subtle dual-tone finish, chrome garnish on the trunk lid, and LED taillights that ensure visibility and safety.

Color Options:

Honda offers the Amaze in a variety of color options, ranging from classic shades like pearl white and metallic black to vibrant hues such as red and blue. This diversity allows buyers to choose a variant that best reflects their personal style.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the Honda Amaze is powered by a robust yet efficient engine that delivers a balanced mix of power and fuel economy. The latest models come equipped with two engine options: a 1.2-liter i-VTEC petrol engine and a 1.5-liter diesel engine.

1.2-Liter i-VTEC Petrol Engine:

Displacement: 1199 cc
Maximum Power: 90 PS at 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 110 Nm at 4500 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox

The petrol variant is known for its smooth and responsive performance, making it ideal for city driving and occasional highway cruising. The i-VTEC technology optimizes engine performance and efficiency, contributing to the impressive mileage of 26 kmpl.

1.5-Liter Diesel Engine:

Displacement: 1497 cc
Maximum Power: 90 PS at 4500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 200 Nm at 2000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox

The diesel variant is a powerhouse, delivering substantial torque and excellent fuel efficiency. The 1.5-liter engine is engineered to provide a refined and powerful driving experience, especially suited for longer journeys and highway commutes.

Performance Highlights:

Acceleration: The Amaze offers brisk acceleration, particularly in the diesel variant, ensuring confident overtaking and smooth merging onto highways.
Handling: The car’s well-tuned suspension system provides a balanced ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively and maintaining stability during turns.
Fuel Efficiency: With a mileage of 26 kmpl, the Honda Amaze stands out in its segment, offering significant savings on fuel over time.

Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

One of the primary reasons for the Honda Amaze’s popularity is its impressive fuel efficiency. Achieving a mileage of 26 kmpl, the Amaze is an economical choice for budget-conscious buyers who seek to minimize their running costs.

Factors Contributing to Fuel Efficiency:

Engine Technology: The i-VTEC and diesel engine technologies optimize fuel combustion, reducing wastage and enhancing mileage.
Aerodynamic Design: The car’s sleek and aerodynamic shape minimizes air resistance, improving fuel economy.
Lightweight Construction: Honda has employed lightweight materials in the Amaze’s construction, reducing the overall weight and enhancing fuel efficiency.
Efficient Transmission: The 5-speed manual gearbox ensures smooth and efficient gear shifts, maintaining optimal engine performance and fuel consumption.

Eco-Friendly Features:

Emission Control: The Amaze is equipped with advanced emission control systems that reduce harmful exhaust emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Stop-Start System: In some variants, Honda has integrated a stop-start system that shuts off the engine when the car is idling, conserving fuel and reducing emissions.

Interior and Comfort

The Honda Amaze excels in providing a comfortable and spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for families and daily commuters alike.

Seating and Space:

Spacious Cabin: The Amaze offers ample legroom and headroom for both the driver and passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys.
Ergonomic Design: The seats are designed to provide optimal support, reducing fatigue during extended drives. The split-folding rear seats allow for flexible cargo space when needed.
Premium Upholstery: Depending on the variant, the Amaze features high-quality upholstery materials that enhance comfort and add a touch of luxury to the cabin.

Dashboard and Controls:

Driver-Centric Layout: The dashboard is designed with the driver in mind, ensuring that all controls are within easy reach for convenient operation.
Digital Instrument Cluster: Higher variants of the Amaze come with a fully digital instrument cluster that provides essential information such as speed, fuel level, and trip details in a clear and easily readable format.
Infotainment System: The Amaze is equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system in select variants, offering features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and smartphone integration for an enhanced driving experience.

Storage Solutions:

Ample Storage: The Amaze provides generous storage space, including door pockets, a spacious glovebox, and under-seat storage for essentials.
Convenient Compartments: Thoughtfully placed compartments and cup holders add to the car’s practicality, ensuring that riders can keep their belongings organized and easily accessible.

Features and Technology

The Honda Amaze is packed with a range of features that enhance convenience, safety, and overall driving experience.

Safety Features:

Dual Front Airbags: Standard in higher variants, dual front airbags provide essential protection in the event of a collision.
ABS with EBD: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) combined with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) ensures effective braking performance and enhanced safety during emergency stops.
Rear Parking Sensors: Rear parking sensors aid in maneuvering the car in tight spaces, reducing the risk of minor collisions.
Daytime Running Lights: Enhanced visibility during the day, making the car more noticeable to other drivers and pedestrians.

Comfort and Convenience:

Power Steering: Available in select variants, power steering reduces the effort required to maneuver the car, making driving smoother and more comfortable.
Automatic Climate Control: Ensures a comfortable cabin temperature regardless of external weather conditions, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Push-Button Start: Some variants feature a push-button start system, adding a layer of convenience for the driver.

Technology Integration:

Smartphone Connectivity: Bluetooth connectivity allows for hands-free calling and audio streaming, ensuring that drivers stay connected without compromising safety.
Navigation System: Integrated GPS navigation systems provide real-time directions and traffic updates, aiding in efficient route planning.
Touchscreen Interface: The user-friendly touchscreen interface offers easy access to various infotainment features, ensuring an intuitive and seamless user experience.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Honda Amaze is engineered to deliver a balanced and enjoyable driving experience, whether navigating through city traffic or cruising on highways.

Suspension Setup:

Front Suspension: MacPherson struts provide effective damping and rebound control, ensuring a smooth ride over uneven surfaces and absorbing road imperfections with ease.
Rear Suspension: The double-wishbone suspension at the rear offers enhanced stability and comfort, maintaining consistent contact with the road and minimizing body roll during turns.

Steering and Maneuverability:

Responsive Steering: The Amaze features a responsive steering system that allows for precise handling and effortless maneuvering, making it ideal for tight urban environments.
Lightweight Chassis: The lightweight construction contributes to the car’s agility, enabling quick lane changes and smooth cornering without compromising stability.

Braking Performance:

Efficient Braking: The combination of ABS, EBD, and dual front airbags ensures that the Amaze delivers reliable and effective braking performance, enhancing safety and control.
Brake Bias: The brake bias system optimizes braking force distribution between the front and rear wheels, preventing skidding and ensuring balanced deceleration.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort is a key priority in the design of the Honda Amaze, ensuring that both the driver and passengers enjoy a pleasant and fatigue-free ride.

Seating Comfort:

Well-Padded Seats: The seats are designed with high-density foam padding that offers excellent support and cushioning, reducing pressure points during long drives.
Adjustable Seats: In some variants, the driver’s seat is adjustable, allowing for customization of the seating position to accommodate different heights and preferences.

Ride Quality:

Smooth Ride: The well-tuned suspension system absorbs shocks and vibrations effectively, providing a smooth and stable ride even on rough or uneven terrains.
Noise Insulation: Improved sound insulation techniques minimize cabin noise, ensuring a quiet and serene driving environment.

Climate Control:

Efficient Air Conditioning: The automatic climate control system maintains a consistent and comfortable cabin temperature, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Ventilation: Strategic placement of vents ensures optimal air circulation, preventing stuffiness and maintaining freshness within the cabin.

Interior and Cargo Space

The Honda Amaze offers a spacious and thoughtfully designed interior, making it a practical choice for families and individuals who require ample cargo space.

Passenger Comfort:

Spacious Rear Seat: The rear seat is generously sized, providing ample legroom and headroom for passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride even for taller individuals.
Split-Folding Seats: The split-folding rear seats offer flexibility in cargo arrangements, allowing riders to customize the space according to their needs.

Cargo Capacity:

Under-Seat Storage: The under-seat storage compartment is spacious enough to accommodate essential items such as helmets, documents, or a small bag, adding to the car’s practicality.
Additional Storage: Door pockets, a large glovebox, and other storage compartments provide ample space for carrying personal belongings and accessories, keeping the cabin organized and clutter-free.

Interior Design:

Premium Materials: The use of high-quality materials in the interior enhances the car’s overall feel, providing a touch of luxury and sophistication.
Ergonomic Layout: The dashboard and controls are designed for ease of use, ensuring that all essential functions are within easy reach and visibility for the driver.

Pricing and Variants

The Honda Amaze is available in multiple variants, each tailored to meet the diverse needs and preferences of buyers. The pricing structure is competitive, offering excellent value for money across all variants.

Variants:

Std (Standard) Petrol Variant:
- Engine: 1.2-liter i-VTEC petrol engine
- Features: Basic features including manual air conditioning, analog-digital instrument cluster, and standard upholstery.
- Price Range: Approximately ₹7.75 lakh (ex-showroom)
V Variant:
- Engine: 1.2-liter i-VTEC petrol engine
- Features: Enhanced features such as LED headlamps, touchscreen infotainment system, and automatic climate control.
- Price Range: Approximately ₹8.35 lakh (ex-showroom)
ZX Variant:
- Engine: 1.2-liter i-VTEC petrol engine
- Features: Top-tier features including dual airbags, ABS with EBD, smart key system, and premium interior finishes.
- Price Range: Approximately ₹9.40 lakh (ex-showroom)
Diesel Variants:
- Engine: 1.5-liter diesel engine
- Features: Similar to petrol variants with additional torque and better fuel efficiency.
- Price Range: Starts from around ₹8.35 lakh (ex-showroom)

Pricing Considerations:

Fuel Type: Diesel variants are priced slightly higher than their petrol counterparts due to their superior torque and fuel efficiency.
Features: Higher variants come with advanced features and enhanced safety systems, justifying the incremental price differences.
Regional Variations: Prices may vary based on the city and state due to taxes and other regional factors.

Value for Money:

The Honda Amaze offers exceptional value for money, providing a well-rounded package that includes reliable performance, advanced features, and impressive fuel efficiency. When compared to competitors like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor, the Amaze stands out with its spacious interior, robust build quality, and Honda’s trusted reputation for reliability.

Safety Features

Safety is a paramount concern for Honda, and the Amaze is equipped with a range of safety features to protect both the driver and passengers.

Standard Safety Features:

Dual Front Airbags: Provides essential protection in the event of a frontal collision, reducing the risk of severe injuries.
ABS with EBD: Enhances braking performance by preventing wheel lock-up and ensuring balanced deceleration.
Rear Parking Sensors: Aids in preventing minor collisions while parking, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces.
Daytime Running Lights (DRL): Increases the car’s visibility during daytime, making it more noticeable to other drivers and pedestrians.

Additional Safety Enhancements:

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA): Available in higher variants, VSA helps maintain vehicle stability during cornering and slippery conditions.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Future variants may include features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation systems to further enhance safety.
Crash Test Ratings: The Amaze has undergone rigorous crash testing to ensure compliance with safety standards, earning favorable ratings that instill confidence in buyers.

Environmental Impact

The Honda Amaze is designed with a focus on environmental sustainability, incorporating technologies that reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.

Emission Standards:

BS6 Compliance: The Amaze complies with Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms, ensuring that it produces fewer harmful emissions compared to older models.
Advanced Fuel Injection: The semi-digital fuel injection system optimizes fuel combustion, reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and contributing to a cleaner environment.

Eco-Friendly Practices:

Lightweight Materials: The use of lightweight materials in the Amaze’s construction not only improves fuel efficiency but also reduces the overall environmental footprint.
Recyclable Components: Honda incorporates recyclable materials in various parts of the car, promoting sustainability and reducing waste.

Ownership and After-Sales Support

Honda’s commitment to customer satisfaction extends beyond the purchase, ensuring a seamless ownership experience through comprehensive after-sales support.

Service Network:

Extensive Coverage: Honda has an extensive service network across India, ensuring that owners have easy access to authorized service centers and skilled technicians.
Genuine Spare Parts: Availability of genuine Honda spare parts ensures that maintenance and repairs are carried out efficiently, maintaining the car’s performance and reliability.

Warranty and Maintenance Packages:

Standard Warranty: The Amaze comes with a standard warranty covering major components and providing peace of mind to buyers.
Extended Warranty Options: Honda offers extended warranty packages and prepaid maintenance plans, allowing owners to customize their coverage based on their needs.
Service Packages: Affordable service packages are available, covering routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections at competitive rates.

Customer Support:

Dedicated Helpline: Honda provides a dedicated customer helpline for addressing queries, booking service appointments, and resolving any issues promptly.
Online Resources: The Honda website and mobile app offer a range of resources, including service booking, warranty information, and access to the latest updates and offers.

Resale Value

The Honda Amaze enjoys strong resale value in the Indian market, thanks to Honda’s reputation for reliability and the car’s enduring popularity.

Factors Influencing Resale Value:

Brand Reputation: Honda’s trusted brand image ensures that the Amaze remains a desirable option in the second-hand market.
Durability: The Amaze’s robust build quality and reliable performance contribute to its longevity, making it a valuable asset over time.
Maintenance History: Regular maintenance and timely service enhance the car’s resale value, reflecting its well-cared-for condition.
Market Demand: The Amaze’s consistent demand in the market ensures that it retains its value better than many competitors.

Owner Testimonials:

Owners of the Honda Amaze often highlight the car’s strong resale value as a significant advantage, emphasizing the ease of selling or upgrading to a newer model without substantial financial loss.

Comparison with Competitors

In the highly competitive compact sedan segment, the Honda Amaze faces strong competition from models like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, Tata Tigor, and Ford Aspire. Here’s how the Amaze stacks up against its rivals:

1. Honda Amaze vs. Maruti Suzuki Dzire:

Engine Options: Both cars offer similar engine options, but the Amaze’s 1.2-liter i-VTEC engine provides a slightly more refined performance.
Fuel Efficiency: The Dzire offers a marginally better mileage, but the Amaze compensates with its robust build and reliable performance.
Features: The Amaze is more feature-rich in higher variants, offering advanced infotainment and safety features that the Dzire may lack.
Price: Both cars are priced competitively, with slight variations based on the chosen variant and features.

2. Honda Amaze vs. Hyundai Aura:

Design: The Aura features a more modern and bold design, appealing to style-conscious buyers, while the Amaze focuses on understated elegance.
Performance: The Amaze offers a more balanced performance with its i-VTEC technology, whereas the Aura’s engine is tuned for slightly higher power output.
Fuel Efficiency: Both cars offer similar mileage, making them equally economical choices.
Features: The Amaze provides better safety features in higher variants, while the Aura emphasizes comfort and convenience with its infotainment options.

3. Honda Amaze vs. Tata Tigor:

Build Quality: The Amaze is known for its superior build quality and reliability, whereas the Tigor focuses on offering a stylish and feature-packed package.
Engine Performance: The Amaze’s engine delivers a smoother and more refined performance compared to the Tigor’s engine, which is geared towards higher power output.
Safety Features: The Amaze offers more comprehensive safety features, including dual airbags and ABS with EBD, even in lower variants.
Resale Value: The Amaze holds its resale value better due to Honda’s trusted brand reputation and the car’s enduring popularity.

4. Honda Amaze vs. Ford Aspire:

Driving Dynamics: The Amaze provides a more balanced and comfortable driving experience, while the Aspire emphasizes sporty handling and performance.
Features: Both cars offer similar feature sets, but the Amaze may have an edge with its advanced safety and infotainment options.
Fuel Efficiency: The Aspire offers comparable mileage, making both cars equally economical in terms of fuel consumption.
Service Network: Honda’s extensive service network gives the Amaze an advantage in terms of after-sales support and maintenance.

Real-World Usage and Testimonials

Owners of the Honda Amaze often share positive experiences, highlighting the car’s reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency as key strengths.

Positive Feedback:

Fuel Efficiency: Many owners commend the Amaze for its impressive mileage, which significantly reduces the cost of daily commuting and long-distance travel.
Comfort: The spacious interior, comfortable seating, and smooth ride quality receive high praise, especially for long journeys and highway driving.
Reliability: Honda’s reputation for building dependable cars is upheld by the Amaze, with owners reporting minimal issues and consistent performance over time.
Spaciousness: The generous cabin space and ample storage solutions are frequently highlighted as major advantages, making the Amaze suitable for families and individuals with diverse needs.
Resale Value: Owners appreciate the strong resale value, noting that the Amaze retains its worth well in the second-hand market.

Areas for Improvement:

Performance on Highways: A few owners feel that the Amaze’s engine could offer more power for sustained high-speed cruising, suggesting that a more powerful engine variant would enhance performance.
Infotainment System: While functional, some owners wish for a more advanced infotainment system with additional features and better integration with smartphones.
Styling: Although the Amaze’s design is appreciated for its elegance, a few owners desire a more modern or aggressive look to match contemporary automotive trends.

Owner Testimonials:

“The Honda Amaze has been a reliable companion for my daily commutes. The fuel efficiency saves me a lot on petrol, and the comfortable seats make long drives enjoyable.” – Neha Sharma, Bangalore
“I love the spacious interior of the Amaze. It’s perfect for my family trips, and the under-seat storage is incredibly useful for carrying our essentials.” – Rakesh Kumar, Delhi
“The Amaze’s smooth ride and refined engine make it a pleasure to drive. Honda’s service network is also a huge plus, ensuring that maintenance is hassle-free.” – Priya Singh, Mumbai

Future Prospects and Upgrades

Honda continues to innovate and enhance the Amaze to maintain its competitive edge and meet the evolving needs of drivers.

Potential Upgrades:

Hybrid and Electric Variants:
- Hybrid Technology: Incorporating hybrid powertrains could further improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, aligning with global trends towards sustainable mobility.
- Electric Models: Introducing fully electric variants of the Amaze could cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles, expanding Honda’s presence in the electric vehicle (EV) market.
Advanced Safety Features:
- ADAS Integration: Implementing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation systems would enhance safety and appeal to tech-savvy buyers.
- Improved Airbag Systems: Expanding the availability of multiple airbags and enhancing their performance could further boost the Amaze’s safety credentials.
Enhanced Infotainment:
- Larger Touchscreens: Upgrading to larger, more responsive touchscreens with better user interfaces would improve the infotainment experience.
- Wireless Connectivity: Features like wireless smartphone charging, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay integration would add significant value for modern users.
Performance Enhancements:
- Turbocharged Engines: Introducing turbocharged engine variants could provide a boost in power and torque without significantly compromising fuel efficiency.
- Transmission Upgrades: Offering automatic transmission options, such as CVT or dual-clutch systems, would cater to drivers who prefer the convenience of automatic gear shifting.
Design Refreshes:
- Exterior Updates: Periodic design refreshes with contemporary styling elements, new color options, and updated front and rear fascias would keep the Amaze visually appealing.
- Interior Enhancements: Improving interior materials, adding ambient lighting, and incorporating ergonomic design elements would enhance the overall cabin experience.

Market Positioning:

Honda is likely to continue positioning the Amaze as a premium compact sedan that offers exceptional value for money, combining reliability, efficiency, and advanced features. By focusing on continuous improvement and innovation, Honda ensures that the Amaze remains a top contender in its segment, appealing to a broad range of buyers.

Sustainability Initiatives:

Eco-Friendly Manufacturing: Honda may adopt more sustainable manufacturing practices, such as using recycled materials and reducing waste, to enhance the Amaze’s environmental footprint.
Green Certifications: Pursuing green certifications and adhering to international environmental standards would bolster the Amaze’s appeal among environmentally conscious consumers.

Conclusion

The Honda Amaze stands as a testament to Honda’s commitment to delivering quality, efficiency, and comfort in the compact sedan segment. With its impressive mileage of 26 kmpl, the Amaze offers an economical solution for daily commuters and families, reducing the overall cost of ownership without compromising on performance or comfort. Its well-rounded package, which includes a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a reliable engine, makes it a compelling choice for a diverse range of buyers.

In a market crowded with numerous options, the Honda Amaze distinguishes itself through its blend of practicality, reliability, and value for money. Whether you are a young professional navigating through city traffic, a family seeking a comfortable and spacious vehicle, or a budget-conscious driver looking for an economical commute, the Amaze caters to all with finesse.

As Honda continues to innovate and enhance the Amaze, integrating advanced technologies and eco-friendly options, the car is poised to maintain its stronghold in the market and meet the evolving needs of modern drivers. For those in search of a dependable, efficient, and stylish compact sedan, the Honda Amaze remains an excellent and enduring choice.

With its enduring popularity, positive owner testimonials, and continuous improvements, the Honda Amaze is not just a car; it’s a reliable companion that adapts to the dynamic demands of today’s fast-paced life, ensuring that every journey is comfortable, economical, and enjoyable.

Honda Amaze: Redefining Compact Sedans with Impressive 26 kmpl Mileage