The all-new Honda Amaze is a standout

Designed specifically as a sedan from the ground up, the new Amaze is larger in every dimension and features a bold, head-turning design that's unmistakably Honda. Inside, the sophisticated cabin is both stylish and exceptionally roomy.

Honda's renowned i-VTec engine technology ensures that the new Amaze also gets the go to match the show, while delivering exceptional fuel efficiency. An extended wheelbase and fine-tuned suspension ensure confident road manners and a refined ride.

Two equipment levels - Trend and Comfort - provide Amaze buyers with a choice of features, although both executions offer a high level of standard equipment. Safety remains a priority, with all models featuring a comprehensive array of active and standard safety features.

In addition to highly competitive pricing, the exceptional efficiency of the new Amaze contributes to economical running costs - an increasingly vital aspect of car ownership. Further peace of mind is provided by a two-year/30,000 km service plan.

"We believe that the new Honda Amaze will set a new, elevated standard for small sedans in South Africa," says Toshiaki Kusakari, Head of Automobiles at Honda Motor Southern Africa.

"We're expecting the car to appeal to a broad and varied motoring audience, ranging from young singles and start-up families to mature motorists. All will be attracted by the Amaze's value-added purchase price, excellent fuel efficiency and low operating cost.

"In addition, the new Amaze is exceptionally roomy and offers a generous luggage compartment, while Honda's revered reputation for reliability and good resale value will also add to the Amaze's attraction," Kusakari concluded.

Exterior design

A completely new design, the second-generation Honda Amaze was conceptualised as a sedan from the very beginning.

This allowed the design team to create a cohesive, streamlined shape with a flowing silhouette and a strong, individual character, while also expressing the current Honda design language.

The front is dominated by Honda's characteristic 'solid wing' appearance, which manifests itself in a broad bar extending across the width of the contrasting black honeycomb grille. It also provides a visual link to the bold halogen headlight clusters.

Drivetrain and dynamics

The new Honda Amaze is powered by an advanced and reliable four-cylinder engine. The 1,199 cc unit employs Honda's i-VTEC intelligent valve timing management system, ensuring optimum performance and fuel efficiency.

Maximum power output is rated at 66 kW, reached at 6,000 r/min, combined with a torque peak of 110 Nm at 4 800 r/min. In the baseline Amaze Trend model, a five-speed manual gearbox is standard, while buyers of the Comfort model can also opt for a new-generation Constantly Variable Transmission (CVT).

With a kerb mass of just more than 900kg, the Amaze is able to deliver swift performance and frugal fuel economy. Manual-gearbox models will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 12,3 sec, while the CVT version requires a still brisk 13,5 sec. Top speed is 160 km/h for all derivatives.

The manual-transmission Amaze models achieve a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 5,6 litres/100 km, while the CVT version is only slightly thirstier at 5,7 litres/100 km.

The Amaze's all-new platform features an independent, McPherson strut-based front suspension, and a torsion beam rear set-up. It's been designed to offer confident handling and a refined ride, while the electrically assisted power steering ensures effortless, crisp steering response.

Overall refinement and NVH has been improved substantially, thanks to the new platform's enhanced soundproofing and reduced engine noise transmission, as well as optimised engine mounts.

Pricing

The new Honda Amaze recommended retail pricing is as follows: