Honda’s third-generation Amaze arrives at an interesting juncture. As compact sedans fight for survival against an SUV-dominated landscape, Honda’s bestseller takes a fresh approach, focusing on safety, practicality, and a touch of sophistication. It now comes equipped with segment-leading safety tech and a design refresh, and it hopes to carve out a niche amidst tough competition. But has the Amaze sharpened its edge enough to stand against a more feature-rich Maruti Suzuki Dzire, or is it content to play second fiddle?
Verdict
Comparisons with the Dzire are inevitable, given their shared segment. Maruti’s Dzire offers strong value with a lower starting price, factory-fitted CNG variants, and a five-star safety rating. The Dzire also includes features like a sunroof and 360-degree camera, which might sway buyers seeking outright features. However, the Amaze counters with superior driving dynamics, a smoother CVT, and advanced driver assistance features that give it a distinct edge in safety technology. Honda’s reputation for long-term reliability and quality engineering further strengthens its case.
The third-generation Amaze builds on its predecessor’s strengths with updated styling, improved practicality, and class-leading safety tech. While it doesn’t push the boundaries of its segment, it delivers a well-rounded package that caters to a broad audience. The Amaze is an easy recommendation for those who value understated sophistication and a comfortable driving experience. Its CVT variant, in particular, remains one of the best automatics in its class, combining refinement with convenience. While it may not wholly dethrone the Dzire, the Amaze positions itself as a solid contender that reaffirms the relevance of compact sedans in a world enamoured by SUVs.
Powering the Amaze is the same 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine as before. This unit, while smooth and refined, has its quirks. It thrives in the upper reaches of the rev range, delivering its best performance beyond 2000 rpm, but it feels noticeably weak at lower speeds. Honda has tweaked the 5-speed manual gearbox with shorter first and second-gear ratios to mitigate this, but the engine’s lack of low-end torque remains apparent in traffic or on inclines, requiring frequent downshifts. On the highway, overtakes in third gear can feel laboured, often demanding a shift down to second for urgency. The manual gearbox is slick, with short throws and a light clutch, making it pleasant for everyday use.
The CVT variant, however, continues to be the standout choice. By keeping the engine in its sweet spot, the CVT remarkably masks its low-end lethargy, offering smooth and effortless performance. Paddle shifters add an engaging touch, and the Sport mode ensures the CVT stays in lower ratios for brisk driving. The characteristic rubber-band effect under hard acceleration is present, but it’s not a dealbreaker. Cabin insulation, while generally acceptable, could have been improved, as engine noise and ambient sounds filter in more than one would expect, especially in the CVT variant compared to the manual transmission.
Ride quality leans towards comfort, as expected. The Amaze easily handles more minor imperfections, though sharper potholes can unsettle its composure. While great for city roads, the soft suspension setup results in noticeable body roll when cornering, and a fully loaded car compresses the rear suspension significantly, demanding caution over larger speed breakers despite the improved ground clearance of 172mm. The wider tyres add grip and stability, while the steering, though light, is precise enough for city manoeuvres. It’s not a car for enthusiastic driving but provides a relaxed and stress-free experience.
Inside, Honda has stayed true to its ethos of functional simplicity. The dashboard is minimalistic, echoing the Elevate’s horizontal design layout but skipping out on soft-touch materials or faux wood inserts. Still, the beige-and-black cabin adds a sense of brightness, and Honda’s hallmark ergonomics shine through. The controls are logical, visibility is excellent, and there’s plenty of storage to keep the clutter at bay. The 8-inch touchscreen, while easy to use, feels modest in a segment that has embraced larger displays. It gets wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though the lack of USB-C ports is a minor oversight in today’s tech-driven world.
Seating is a mixed bag. The front seats lack adequate thigh support, and the absence of an armrest hampers long-distance comfort. Taller drivers might also bemoan the lack of telescopic steering adjustment, as tilt-only steering limits flexibility. At the rear, the seat offers good backrest support and a comfortable recline angle, but the limited cabin width and tight headroom will make three adults feel squeezed. Honda has added thoughtful touches like rear air-conditioning vents, three-point seatbelts for all passengers, and rear headrests, showing its commitment to improving passenger comfort. A class-leading boot space of 416 litres is another win, making the Amaze highly practical for its size.
Safety
Where the Amaze truly sets itself apart is its focus on safety and technology. Honda has brought its camera-based ADAS suite to this segment, a bold move that ensures the Amaze stands out. Features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring add a layer of refinement typically reserved for pricier cars. The execution, however, isn’t flawless. For instance, lane-keeping assist only activates above 72 kmph, limiting its utility in urban conditions, and the blind-spot monitor’s video feed temporarily commandeers the touchscreen, disrupting navigation tasks. Still, these systems work seamlessly when conditions are right, marking a significant step forward for compact sedans. Additionally, the Amaze gets six airbags as standard, along with a chassis composed of high-strength steel, further cementing its safety credentials. While Maruti’s Dzire boasts a five-star Global NCAP rating, Honda’s approach offers a compelling alternative with its tech-forward safety suite.
From the outside, the Amaze exudes a subtle confidence that Honda seems to have mastered. The upright grille, generous chrome accents, and slimmer LED headlamps resemble the Honda Elevate, lending the Amaze a familial connection to its SUV sibling. At the rear, its resemblance to the City is unmistakable, a clever design cue that elevates the compact sedan's overall presence. The dimensions remain largely unchanged, save for a slight increase in width. While familiar, the side profile benefits from subtle updates like door-mounted mirrors and diamond-cut alloy wheels. The design has a clear sense of maturity, though the lack of a factory-fitted sunroof or 360-degree camera might leave some buyers wanting.
