Honda has introduced the latest iteration of the Amaze, priced between ₹8.00 lakh and ₹10.90 lakh (ex-showroom, India). While retaining its mechanical underpinnings, the sedan sees significant upgrades in design, interior features, and technology. Drawing inspiration from its larger siblings—the Honda City and the Elevate SUV—the new Amaze has been refreshed to align with Honda’s evolving design language. Let’s delve into how the new model stands apart from its predecessor.
Exterior Design: A Modern, Refined Aesthetic
The new Amaze adopts a more cohesive and modern exterior, shedding the busy and layered look of the previous generation. It features:
- Front Fascia: A bolder, Elevate-inspired grille flanked by sleeker headlamps. Chrome accents are used sparingly, lending a clean, mature appeal. The upright stance of the new model is a departure from the slightly curved front profile of the older Amaze.
- Side Profile: At first glance, the silhouette remains largely familiar, with similar door and window designs. However, sharper character lines and the addition of 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels distinguish the newer model. Wing mirrors have been repositioned from the A-pillar to the door, enhancing visibility and aesthetics.
- Rear Design: Inspired by the Honda City, the rear features sleeker, rectangular tail lamps and a simplified bumper design without chrome trims.
Dimensionally, the new Amaze retains its length, height, and wheelbase (3,995mm, 1,500mm, and 2,470mm, respectively) but is now 38mm wider. Boot space, however, has marginally decreased by 4 liters.
Interior and Features: A Tech-Forward Overhaul
Inside, the cabin sees a comprehensive redesign, borrowing cues from the Elevate SUV. The new layout emphasizes simplicity and functionality:
- Dashboard and Infotainment: A floating 7-inch touchscreen replaces the integrated unit, paired with repositioned AC vents beneath. The dashboard now features a textured trim, replacing the silver accents from the older model.
- Instrumentation: The instrument cluster now includes a 7-inch digital MID, replacing the analogue tachometer.
- Steering Wheel: A chunkier design with enhanced functionality through new controls.
- Convenience Features: Upgrades include wireless charging, rear AC vents, and six airbags as standard. Honda has also introduced an ADAS suite and a lane-watch camera for added safety.
The dual-tone beige and black theme continues, but the overall fit and finish have been elevated to match modern standards.
Performance: Unchanged Under the Hood
Mechanically, the new Amaze remains identical to its predecessor. It continues to be powered by a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine producing 90hp and 110Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a CVT automatic, with paddle shifters now available for the latter.
Fuel efficiency figures are impressive, with the manual offering 18.65kpl and the CVT delivering an improved 19.46kpl (up by 1.16kpl from the older model).
Verdict
While the new Honda Amaze retains its reliable mechanical foundation, its refreshed design and significantly upgraded interiors and technology make it a compelling choice in its segment. Competing with rivals like the Maruti Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor, the Amaze has certainly upped its game.
Has Honda done enough to justify the upgrade, or is there more room for improvement? Share your thoughts!
Read More: