A 3 box sedan is easily confused for an Uber especially when driving around malls in Mzansi and that may cause a bit of discomfort but it shouldn’t deter from an otherwise great package.
The Amaze has a catchy design with many positive response from onlookers. Comments tended to like its compact dimensions and fuss free design. Lack of LED Daytime running lights is common in this segment but it would have been welcomed had it been offered. LED fog lights do come standard on the Comfort spec as tested.
The 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels enhance the look and are standard. The window surround chrome line adds design flair with the rear also getting chrome finish for the lower bumper. The boot opening is only via key from outside and that’s impractical especially when carrying items to load.
The interior layout features high quality cloth finish for the seats in dark colour trim which aids maintenance. The drivers seats also adjusts for height making it easy to find a good driving position.
The infotainment touchscreen comes standard and works well even when driving however the sound quality could be better. The Bluetooth connection sometimes delayed connecting to the mobile phone. The automatic air-conditioning works very well keeping the cabin and occupants cool even in Durban extreme heat waves.
Space at the back is one of the highlights with favourable comments from passengers hinting at potential e-hailing use. Rear passengers also get a charging slot. On the move though with passengers, the ride was a bit bouncy at the back but generally comfort levels were good.
The CVT needs getting used to for those that are new to the technology with a noticeable engine din when pushed. Steering wheel paddles allow changing of gears which limits the sometimes uncomfortable engine noise. Fuel efficiency is claimed at 5.7l/100km and our real world figure of 6.3l/100km is good resulting in a full tank range of around 520km.
The 66 kW/110 Nm 1.2 4-cylinder engine works well with a load on board and is quite when on the motorway cruising. Its main competitor, the Suzuki Dzire has less power at 61kW but with slight higher Torque at 113Nm from its 1.2l engine. Honda claims 13,5 seconds 0-100km/h and top speed of 150 km/h.
Boot space is good but the lack of folding rear seats limits added space or loading long items.
Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT comes in at R252 800 and comes with a five-year/200 000 km warranty, as well as a two-year/30 000 km service plan, and a three-year AA Roadside Assistance package. Scheduled services are at 15 000 km intervals.
As an all round package the Amaze ticks all the good boxes with few negatives. It really deserves to be considered for someone looking for a decent family sedan that looks good and offers good standard spec. Honda reliability is a much added plus.