2018 Honda Amaze: Which variant should you buy?

The second-generation Honda Amaze is out and it’s a far more compelling package than the original. It is bigger in dimensions, more spacious and is plusher on the inside too. What’s more is that there are even more versions on sale, including a new diesel-automatic.

Amaze prices range from Rs 5.60-7.58 lakh (ex-showroom) for the petrol-manual, Rs 7.40-8.00 lakh for the petrol automatic, Rs 6.70-8.68 lakh for the diesel-manual and Rs 8.40-9.00 lakh for the diesel-automatic. In effect, there’s a wide price band the Amaze operates in. Let’s break it down and find the version that best suits your needs. 

Which engine-gearbox option is best?

Like the first-gen Honda Amaze, the new model continues with the familiar 90hp 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, and as before, there’s the option of a five-speed manual and a CVT (automatic). The diesel, too, like before, is a 100hp 1.5-litre i-DTEC engine with a five-speed manual, but now there’s an option of a CVT as well, though this version makes 80hp of power. Interestingly, the diesel-CVT combination is not only unique to the compact sedan segment but is also a first for Honda globally. While the diesel-automatic makes less power than the manual, under most driving scenarios you won’t notice the power deficit. In fact, because of their smooth nature, it is the CVTs that are our pick in the range. These work really well with either of the engine options. The automatics are Rs 80,000-90,000 more expensive than the respective manuals and are worth the stretch for the sake of convenience. The diesel is Rs 1-1.10 lakh pricier but it’s more effortless and more efficient than the petrol, and refinement has significantly improved compared to the outgoing version.

Which is the variant worth buying?

Safety kit like ABS with EBD, dual airbags, Isofix child seat mounts and reverse parking sensors are standard across the range. Note that the manual Amazes are available in four trims, namely E, S, V and VX, while the automatics are only offered in the mid-spec S and V variants. What that means is that the automatic Amazes make do without features like a touchscreen infotainment system, reverse camera, voice controls and cruise control, all of which are available in the top VX variant. And that’s a shame.

However, it is the V trim Amazes that offer the best value. Sure, they miss some goodies but still pack in quite a bit for sensible money. Parts of the package are 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, a Bluetooth-enabled music system, auto climate control, engine start/stop button and keyless entry, among other features. Do note that the petrol-CVT has a big advantage over the equivalent diesel by coming equipped with paddle shifters.

Of all the versions on sale, our pick of the range would be the V CVT with either the petrol or diesel engine.