2018 Honda Amaze

TESTED: Honda's amazing little Amaze

VERDICT

After two months behind the wheel of our Amaze, the initial reservations we had about it being underpowered has abated. More miles and some drivetrain run-in has unlocked smoothness and an eagerness to rev, like Hondas of yesteryear. The 1.2-litre four pot with 66kW and 110Nm won’t secure any traffic lights grand prix wins, but it will satisfy you when revved out.

The five-speed manual transmission has also loosened up nicely and it simply slots into gear with an easy smooth action, combined with a light and easy to modulate clutch.

The car’s also proving to be extremely frugal at the pumps, averaging an impressive 6.6l/100km despite stop-start M1 (Johannesburg) for most of its journeys on the daily grind.

Honda offers a CVT version of the car if you prefer to steer clear of a third pedal, but we know that small engines and CVTs aren’t the best combination when it comes to delivering a satisfying drive.

If you’re currently in the market for a small car to get to work and back, or if you’re looking for something with a little more space now that your nest is starting to fill up with little ones, the car ticks all the necessary boxes. Yes, we’d like more grunt, especially for overtaking up here in Gauteng where we test, but over time you’ll learn where the sweet spots are and where to shift cogs to maintain momentum without labouring the engine. Go test drive one today, but remember you’ll only start to feel its true smoothness and driveability once you’ve put some miles on it.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/cars/honda/tested-hondas-amazing-little-amaze-20659704

Amaze 1.JPGAmaze 2.JPGAmaze 3.JPGAmaze 4.JPG
 
Here's just how safe the new Honda Amaze is in SA

The new Honda Amaze might not be a striking hot model, but it's snubby, comforting face is becoming more popular, and it's certainly getting more love as time goes on. Launched in October 2018, the little car has redefined itself as a new standard of compact sedans.

This year started off with a bang in January which saw the Amaze move 115 units off showroom floors. From February through to May, figures were between 42 and 56 for that period. In June, numbers spiked to 102, 93 (July) and 71 in August.

Just how safe is Honda's popular Amaze in South Africa? Global NCAP and the Automobile Association of South Africa has launched the third round of

#SaferCarsForAfrica crash test results with the welcome support of the FIA Foundation and Bloomberg Philanthropies earlier this year.
The Amaze's platform makes use of high-tensile steel, which translates to a lightweight but rigid construction.

Honda also claims its features the automaker's Advanced Compatibility structure, "which allows for specific, programmed deformation of body structures in the case of a collision, while ensuring the integrity of the passenger safety cell."

 
REVIEW | Honda Amaze 1.2 Sedan

The Amaze is a perfect model for rental companies too, as well as Uber drivers looking for a suitable vehicle to go into the business of transporting passengers in a stylish, compact sedan.

Overall, I am impressed with Honda delivering this spacious, comfortable, and affordable sedan that I find to be a well-suited fit for first time families, or young drivers like myself in South Africa.

Pricing

R179 900 - 1.2 Trend

R208 900 - 1.2 Comfort CVT

All three Honda Amaze models are available in a choice of four colours - white silver metallic, steel metallic, and red metallic.


Amaze 1.jpgAmaze 2.jpgAmaze 3.jpg
 
REVIEW | The Honda Amaze offers 'bang for buck' and more

Because of its low kerb weight, the car feels stable and light, even through the twisty Kloof Nek pass. Steering is responsive but often feels too stiff when you negotiate uneven road surfaces, which is a reality in the country.

It does the simple things properly and offers a lot of in terms of practicality, fuel economy and overall value for money. Want more space? Buy a Mobilio. Want speed? Buy a Type R.

Trim levels and pricing

1.2 Trend - R179 900

1.2 Comfort - R201 800

1.2 Comfort CVT - R217 400


Amaze 1.jpgAmaze 2.JPGAmaze 3.JPG
 
I bought a CVT a month ago from a family member who emigrated and have been blown away. Really awesome commuting car. Very comfortable, easy to drive in heavy traffic. Main complaint is the 1.2 engine is a bit gutless on up hill overtaking but overall I'm extremely satisfied. Current consumption is averaging about 7.5 commuting to Sandton which is about 25% better than my previous car (Tazz). The family prefers driving it around on the weekend to our Balade interestingly enough. Might be due to the better climate control and aircon setup and the leather seats. I also love the CVT transmission. I think when I do replace my Honda Balade it will be with a BRV or HRV with the same transmission.

One last point is it has much better clearance than the Balade, and sits higher in traffic. A perk I underestimated in terms of how much of a difference it makes. I have decided I like cars that sit me higher up so that I can see around better in traffic.
 
Honda Amaze facelift revealed with subtle styling revisions and new kit

The Honda Amaze facelift has been revealed with a series of cosmetic and specification adjustments by the Indian-arm of the Japanese manufacturer. The powertrain however, remains as it was.

Although it largely appears unchanged, the Honda Amaze facelift boasts a solid wing-design front grille with chrome molding, LED headlamps with integrated signature LED DRLs, a new pair of advanced LED front fog lamps with chrome garnishing and a redesigned lower grille for a wider appearance.

The new C-shaped LED rear combination taillamps with unique signature red luminescence and redesigned rear bumper with chrome detailing and reflectors consist of the changes made to the rear of the Honda Amaze facelift. The updated model also gets a set of new diamond-cut two-tone multi-spoke 15-inch alloy wheels and chrome door handles with keyless entry.

Within the cabin of the Honda Amaze facelift, satin silver details have been applied to the dashboard, door trims and steering wheel while chrome plating is fitted to the air conditioning vent knobs.

Premium seat upholstery with new stitching pattern, a leather boot for the manual transmission shift lever and boot lid lining have been applied in an attempt to make the Honda Amaze facelift feel just a bit more special. The highlight of the cabin however, is the seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Car Play and Android Auto.


Amaze 1.jpegAmaze 2.jpegAmaze 3.jpegAmaze 4.jpegAmaze 5.jpeg
 
Top
Sign up to the MyBroadband newsletter
X