Autocar India confirms that the global debut of the new Honda Amaze, Honda’s sole new model for India this year, has been postponed to December 2024. Originally, it was set to go on sale by October to coincide with the festive season. The third-generation Amaze will replace the popular second-generation model, which has been on the market since 2018.
Key Features of the New Amaze:
- Fresh Exterior and Interior Design: The next-gen Amaze will sport a revamped look, both inside and out. It is expected to retain stylish design cues that align with larger Honda sedans sold globally. Like its predecessor, which drew inspiration from the Accord, the new model may follow a similar design approach.
- Modified Platform: The Amaze will utilize a modified version of the platform used by the Honda City and Elevate, featuring a significantly shorter wheelbase to keep the overall length under four meters. This shift will help Honda streamline its India lineup to a single platform, enhancing economies of scale.
- Updated Cabin Layout: Expect a refreshed cabin layout, potentially including a larger, free-standing touchscreen similar to that in the Elevate. It is likely to share interior components with other Honda models in India to maintain cost efficiency.
Powertrain:
- Petrol-Only Engine: The new Amaze will continue with the 1.2-litre, four-cylinder, naturally aspirated petrol engine from the current model, delivering 90hp and 110Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and a CVT automatic. With Honda discontinuing diesel engines in India, the Amaze will be offered only with the petrol engine.
Market Position and Challenges:
- Competitive Landscape: The Amaze will face stiff competition from the Hyundai Aura and the Maruti Dzire, both of which are expected to launch new models just before the Amaze’s debut during the festive season.
- Sales Projections: Compact sedans are experiencing declining popularity as consumers increasingly favor compact SUVs and hot hatchbacks. In light of this trend, Honda Cars India has revised its volume projection for the new Amaze downwards by 30 percent over three years. Initially projected to produce 56,000 units annually, the target has been adjusted to 40,000 units. Despite these challenges, the Amaze remains Honda’s entry-level car in India, accounting for nearly 25 percent of the company’s total sales.
Summary:
The next-generation Honda Amaze will launch at the end of 2024, featuring significant updates while retaining its core attributes. Although it faces a challenging market environment, Honda aims to maintain the Amaze’s strong position within its lineup by leveraging design updates, platform efficiencies, and a continued focus on the petrol engine.
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