Honda Amaze: In India’s fiercely competitive sub-four-meter sedan segment, the Honda Amaze has carved out a distinctive position by blending the Japanese automaker’s reputation for reliability with impressive space utilization and refined driving dynamics.
Now in its second generation, the Amaze continues to attract buyers looking for a premium compact sedan experience without stepping into higher price brackets.
Honda Amaze: Evolution and Design Philosophy
The Honda Amaze first entered the Indian market in 2013, representing Honda’s initial foray into the compact sedan segment.
The current second-generation model, introduced in 2018 with a mid-cycle refresh in 2021, showcases a more mature design philosophy that aligns with Honda’s global design language while meeting Indian market preferences.
The exterior styling features crisp character lines and a bold chrome-accented front grille that creates a family resemblance with larger Honda sedans.
The proportions have been carefully balanced to avoid the awkward “truncated hatchback” appearance that plagues many sub-four-meter sedans.
Instead, the Amaze presents a cohesive design that looks purposeful rather than compromised by tax regulations.
Inside, the cabin exhibits thoughtful ergonomics with an emphasis on maximizing usable space. The dashboard layout prioritizes functionality with logically arranged controls and a driver-centric orientation.
Premium touches like piano black accents and chrome highlights elevate the interior ambiance beyond what many expect in this segment.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Petrol | Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.2L i-VTEC, 4-cylinder | 1.5L i-DTEC, 4-cylinder |
| Displacement | 1199cc | 1498cc |
| Maximum Power | 90 PS @ 6000 rpm | 100 PS @ 3600 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 110 Nm @ 4800 rpm | 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm |
| Transmission Options | 5-speed Manual / CVT | 5-speed Manual / CVT |
| Fuel Efficiency (ARAI) | 18.6 kmpl (MT) / 18.3 kmpl (CVT) | 24.7 kmpl (MT) / 21.0 kmpl (CVT) |
| Suspension (Front/Rear) | McPherson Strut / Torsion Beam | |
| Braking System | Disc (Front) / Drum (Rear) | |
| Length × Width × Height | 3995 mm × 1695 mm × 1501 mm | |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm | |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm | |
| Boot Space | 420 liters | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 liters (Petrol) / 42 liters (Diesel) |
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Honda Amaze offers a driving experience that stands out in its segment, particularly in terms of refinement and ride quality.
The 1.2-liter i-VTEC petrol engine delivers smooth performance with adequate low-end torque for city driving while remaining eager to rev when needed.
Honda’s renowned VTEC technology ensures a balance between efficiency and performance across the rev range.
For those seeking more pulling power and fuel economy, the 1.5-liter i-DTEC diesel engine provides impressive torque delivery with minimal turbo lag.
The diesel unit’s NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels have been significantly improved over the first generation, though some engine noise still penetrates the cabin under hard acceleration.
The availability of CVT transmissions with both engines is a significant advantage in a segment where most competitors offer only automated manual transmissions (AMTs).
The CVT provides seamless power delivery without the jerky shifts typical of AMTs, making it particularly well-suited for urban commuting.
Ride quality deserves special mention, with the suspension tuned to handle Indian road conditions admirably. The setup absorbs minor road imperfections effectively while maintaining composure over larger bumps and undulations.
Steering feedback is precise enough for confident highway cruising while remaining light for easy maneuverability in congested city traffic.
Key Highlights:
Class-leading 420-liter boot space exceeding many larger sedans
One of the few compact sedans offering diesel-CVT combination
Paddle shifters in CVT variants for enhanced driver engagement
Impressive rear seat legroom and headroom for a sub-4-meter sedan
Five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating (equivalent model)
LED projector headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights
Multi-view rear camera with guidelines for easier parking
Smart entry with push-button start across higher variants
Ownership Experience
Honda’s reputation for reliability translates into a hassle-free ownership experience with the Amaze. The service intervals are set at 10,000 kilometers or one year, which is on par with segment standards.
Maintenance costs remain reasonable thanks to good parts availability and Honda’s extensive service network across India.
Fuel efficiency is a strong point, particularly with the diesel variant that consistently delivers real-world figures close to the claimed ARAI ratings.
The petrol CVT variant offers the convenience of an automatic transmission without a significant fuel economy penalty, making it attractive for urban users.
The 3-year/unlimited kilometer warranty provides peace of mind, though some competitors have started offering longer warranty periods. Extended warranty options are available for those seeking additional coverage.
Market Positioning
The Honda Amaze competes in the compact sedan segment against established rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor.
It positions itself as a more premium alternative with superior build quality and refinement, justified by a slightly higher price point.
The target demographic includes young professionals and small families looking for their first sedan, as well as those downsizing from larger cars but unwilling to compromise on key attributes like cabin space and boot capacity.
The Amaze also attracts a significant number of repeat Honda customers who appreciate the brand’s engineering philosophy.
Practical Considerations
Living with the Amaze reveals thoughtful touches that enhance everyday usability. The flat floor in the rear compartment makes the middle seat more usable than in many competitors.
Multiple storage spaces throughout the cabin, including bottle holders in all doors and a spacious glovebox, address practical storage needs.
Ground clearance of 165mm proves adequate for navigating speed breakers and moderately rough roads, though it falls short of crossover-inspired competitors.
The electronic power steering’s light feel at low speeds is a boon in tight parking situations, while progressive weighting at higher speeds provides reassuring stability.
Honda Amaze:
The Honda Amaze exemplifies how a well-executed compact sedan can deliver the essential qualities buyers seek in a larger car while remaining accessible and practical.
By focusing on core strengths like space efficiency, powertrain refinement, and build quality, Honda has created a compelling package that transcends the limitations often associated with this segment.
For buyers who prioritize a balanced driving experience, thoughtful ergonomics, and long-term ownership satisfaction over flashy features, the Amaze presents a mature choice that will continue to satisfy long after the initial excitement of purchase has faded.