Honda Amaze 2018: 5 Things That Could Have Been Better

Despite taking a giant stride with its packaging, the second-gen Amaze still leaves us wanting in some departments

Honda Cars India has finally launched its volume churner, the second-gen Amaze, in India. The older Brio-based model has made way for a more premium and feature-loaded car to take on the segment’s bestseller, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire. Here’s what Honda could have done to make the 2018 Amaze an even better package.

Automatic with top-spec VX variant

• 2018 Honda Amaze Vs Maruti Dzire: Variants Comparison

It is great that Honda is offering a CVT automatic option with both petrol and diesel versions of the Amaze. However, the CVT can only be had with the mid-spec S and the second-last V variant. Meanwhile, the range-topping Amaze VX which gets a host of new features is a manual-only variant. 

The Dzire, on the other hand, offers an automatic option with all variants, except the base. However, the Dzire comes with a relatively affordable and less refined AMT (automated-manual transmission). 

• Maruti Suzuki Dzire Diesel MT: Detailed Review

Since the V variant misses out on crucial features like the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and cruise control, we wish Honda would have offered the CVT with the top-spec VX variant as well. The carmaker could have priced this variant at around Rs 9.80 lakh for the diesel and Rs 8.80 lakh for the petrol version. 

It’s likely that the automaker didn’t introduce the CVT with the VX variant to avoid giving potential customers a price shock. The Volkswagen Ameo diesel automatic, for instance, gets a 7-speed DSG (dual-clutch automatic) as well, and is priced at a premium (Rs 10 lakh ex-India) that many think is unacceptable for a sub-4 metre sedan.  

City-friendly Diesel CVT 

First off, the Amaze diesel equipped with the CVT is less powerful than the manual variant. The 20PS and 40Nm deficit is barely noticeable at city speeds as the CVT keeps the engine in its powerband (1500-2000rpm) most of the time. It runs smoothly with sufficient power on tap. Out on the highway, however, the power difference becomes noticeable since overtaking manoeuvres become slow and requires you to plan ahead. Moreover, there’s more noise than progress. 

• 2018 Honda Amaze: First Drive Review

Peppier Petrol Engine  

Unlike the City’s 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol, the Amaze’s 1.2-litre i-VTEC motor only has a strong mid-range. It feels a little lethargic lower down the rev range and you will probably miss the grunt that Maruti’s 1.2-litre petrol offers closer to the redline. To keep it in its powerband, you need to rush the engine and this also requires frequent gear changes. 

Range-topping ZX variant 

Although there are certain niggles with overall fit and finish, the new Amaze has certainly upped the premium quotient overall. It has received several additional goodies such as cruise control, infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well. However, it misses out on the wow-factor when compared to the new Maruti Dzire. Over the Amaze, the Dzire packs feature such as LED projector headlamps, daytime running LEDs, machined alloy wheels and tail lamps with LED elements. Say what you want, but these features do add a feel-good effect in the mind of the buyer. 

Honda could have added such features in the Amaze as well to bolster its packaging. The new Amaze’s top-spec variant is around Rs 40,000 cheaper than the Dzire’s. That means there’s still room for a new range-topping ZX variant with the aforementioned bells and whistles. Honda offers a ZX in the City, so why not the Amaze too? 

Rear Headroom 

The Amaze has always been one of the most spacious cars in its segment. With an increment of 65mm to its wheelbase, the new Amaze continues to tread the same path. The Amaze’s rear legroom is amongst the highest in the compact sedan segment allowing two adults to sit behind each other comfortably. The rear headroom, however, is surprisingly limited. What mars the experience further are the non-adjustable rear headrests. 

Check out: 2018 Honda Amaze: Variants Explained

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