Honda Amaze Facelift: The Honda Amaze has just dropped what might be the biggest surprise in the compact sedan segment this decade. While everyone expected another routine facelift with cosmetic changes and minor feature updates, Honda delivered something far more significant – India’s first sub-₹11 lakh sedan with Level 2 ADAS technology. This isn’t just evolution; it’s a complete rethinking of what budget sedans can offer.
ADAS in a Sub-₹11 Lakh Package: Game Changer or Gimmick?
When Honda announced that the third-generation Amaze would feature Honda Sensing ADAS suite, industry skeptics wondered if it was merely a marketing ploy. After real-world testing, the verdict is clear: this is legitimate advanced safety technology that actually works. The ZX variant, priced at ₹9.70 lakh for manual and ₹10.90 lakh for CVT, becomes India’s most affordable car with comprehensive ADAS functionality.
The system includes collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, road departure mitigation, lead car departure notification, and auto high beam. During testing, the adaptive cruise control maintained consistent two-car-length distances behind vehicles, while the emergency braking system proved genuinely responsive in panic situations. The lane-keep assist occasionally struggled with poorly marked roads, but performed admirably on highways with clear lane markings.
Design Evolution That Actually Makes Sense
Honda’s design team deserves credit for creating a cohesive visual language that connects the Amaze to its premium siblings.(Honda Amaze Facelift)The new front grille, LED projector headlamps with integrated DRLs, and City-inspired taillights give the Amaze a more mature, sophisticated appearance without trying too hard to look expensive.
The repositioning of ORVMs from A-pillars to doors might seem like a minor detail, but it significantly improves forward visibility – something daily drivers will appreciate during city commutes. The dual-tone alloy wheels on higher variants add visual appeal without appearing ostentatious.
Interior changes focus on practicality over flashiness. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system feels appropriately sized for the cabin, while the semi-digital instrument cluster provides essential information without unnecessary complexity. Touch-capacitive climate controls add a premium touch, though some users might prefer traditional buttons for easier operation while driving.
Performance Reality Check: Familiar Yet Refined
The 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine carries over from the previous generation, producing 90 BHP and 110 Nm of torque. While power figures remain unchanged, Honda has focused on refinement improvements that become apparent during everyday driving. Engine noise intrusion has been reduced, and the CVT transmission feels more responsive than before.
Real-world fuel efficiency varies significantly based on driving conditions. ARAI claims 18.65 kmpl for manual and 19.46 kmpl for CVT variants, but actual users report figures ranging from 11-12 kmpl in city conditions to 16-18 kmpl on highways. The wide variation suggests the engine’s efficiency depends heavily on driving style and traffic conditions.
Feature Strategy That Targets Real Needs
Honda’s feature selection demonstrates understanding of customer priorities rather than checkbox marketing. Automatic climate control with rear AC vents addresses a genuine comfort need in Indian conditions. The LaneWatch camera, though limited to the left mirror, provides helpful assistance during lane changes – a feature that proves useful in daily driving situations.
Notably absent features like sunroof and 360-degree camera reflect Honda’s focus on essential functionality over trending amenities. While competitors offer these features, Honda bet that buyers would value safety technology over convenience features – a gamble that early sales figures suggest might pay off.
Market Positioning: Premium Features at Volume Pricing
The Amaze’s starting price of ₹8.10 lakh positions it competitively against the Maruti Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor. However,(Honda Amaze Facelift) the ADAS-equipped ZX variant creates a unique market position – offering advanced safety features typically found in cars costing ₹15+ lakh.
This strategy addresses a growing segment of safety-conscious buyers who want advanced protection features but can’t justify premium car pricing. The 416-liter boot space remains segment-leading, maintaining the Amaze’s practical advantage over rivals.
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Early Reception: Cautious Optimism
Initial customer feedback shows appreciation for the safety technology and build quality improvements, though some express concerns about real-world fuel efficiency and the absence of certain convenience features. The recent ₹30,000 price increase following the end of introductory pricing hasn’t significantly dampened demand, suggesting the value proposition resonates with target buyers.
Honda Amaze Facelift The Bigger Picture: Democratizing Safety
The Amaze’s ADAS implementation represents more than product differentiation – it’s Honda’s statement about democratizing advanced safety technology.(Honda Amaze Facelift)By bringing Level 2 ADAS to the sub-₹11 lakh segment, Honda is forcing competitors to reconsider their feature strategies and potentially accelerating industry-wide adoption of advanced safety systems.
Whether this strategy succeeds long-term depends on customer education and real-world reliability, but the Amaze has already achieved something significant: proving that advanced safety technology can be accessible without compromising affordability.