Honda Amaze : A Reliable Ride in the Compact Sedan Segment?

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Honda Amaze

The Honda Amaze, a familiar face in the Indian car market, promises a blend of space, efficiency, and Honda’s renowned reliability. But in the ever-evolving compact sedan segment, does the Amaze still hold its own? Let’s shift gears and explore its features, performance, and price tag to see if the Amaze deserves a spot in your driveway.

Fuel Efficiency & Reality:

  • Frugal flyers, rejoice! The Amaze boasts two fuel-efficient engine options: a 1.2L petrol and a 1.5L diesel. The petrol claims an impressive 20.8 kmpl (ARAI combined), while the diesel promises a stellar 24.7 kmpl. Real-world figures settle around 16-18 kmpl for the petrol and 20-22 kmpl for the diesel in city driving, with highways offering further improvements.

Safety First:

  • Safety comes standard with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and child seat anchor points across all trims. Higher variants add more airbags, traction control, hill start assist, and a rear parking camera for enhanced safety.
  • The Amaze earned a commendable 4-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests, solidifying its commitment to occupant protection.

Price & Trims:

  • Affordability is a key strength. The Amaze starts at a competitive ₹6.69 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base E variant, with five progressively feature-rich trims – E, S, V, VX, and ZX – catering to diverse budgets and preferences.

Space & Comfort:

  • The Amaze offers decent space for four adults. Headroom and legroom are ample in the front, while the rear provides comfortable seating for two passengers, but might be a squeeze for three adults on longer journeys. Cargo space is a respectable 420 liters, well-suited for daily needs and luggage.

Tech & Infotainment System:

  • A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes center stage, offering navigation, audio control, and smartphone connectivity. Higher trims upgrade to an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
  • The system is user-friendly with basic menus and clear functions, but might feel outdated compared to newer rivals with more advanced features.

Performance & Handling:

  • The 1.2L petrol delivers 90hp and 110Nm torque, offering adequate power for city commutes. The 1.5L diesel, with its 100hp and 200Nm torque, provides a more spirited driving experience. Both handle well, with a comfortable ride and predictable steering. Off-roading is not recommended due to its low ground clearance.

Reliability & Maintenance Costs:

  • Honda enjoys a strong reputation for reliability, and the Amaze benefits from its proven platform and readily available parts. Maintenance costs are moderate compared to some competitors.

Warranty & Parts:

  • Standard warranty is 3 years/unlimited km, with extended warranty options available.
  • Honda’s service network is extensive, ensuring easy access to parts and service across India.

Competition:

  • The Amaze faces tough competition from established rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor, each offering unique features and price points.

Acceleration & Top Speed:

  • The 1.2L petrol takes about 14.2 seconds to reach 0-100 kmph, while the 1.5L diesel does it in 11.8 seconds. Top speed for the petrol is around 170 kmph, while the diesel reaches 180 kmph.

Pros:

  • Affordable starting price with multiple trim options
  • Excellent fuel efficiency, especially with the diesel engine
  • Spacious and comfortable interior for its size
  • Renowned Honda reliability and readily available service
  • Good safety features, including a 4-star Global NCAP rating

Cons:

  • Tech and infotainment system might feel basic compared to rivals
  • Rear seat might be tight for three adults on longer journeys
  • Performance, especially with the petrol engine, might be underpowered for some

Conclusion:

The Honda Amaze is a reliable and fuel-efficient option in the compact sedan segment. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior for its size, and the peace of mind of Honda’s reputation. However, if the latest tech features, powerful performance, or a more spacious rear seat are your priorities, consider exploring rivals. But for those seeking a reliable and practical daily driver with excellent fuel economy and Honda’s peace of mind, the Amaze is a strong contender. Remember, the choice depends on your individual needs and priorities.

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