Publications
Partners
As the fuel price goes up and down like the Cobra ride once did at Ratanga Junction theme park, fuel-saving is becoming imperative for many motorists in the market for a new car.
The compact city car segment is a cash cow for automakers, rolling out fuel-sippers because they know it is where most people will look - one only has to look at the latest Naamsa figures.
Like the name suggests
One of those fuel-sippers is the Honda Amaze. It makes for the perfect runabout and does the job it needs to, all while saving you fuel. Add to that a host of cool features and you have a well-rounded package.
WATCH: The Honda Amaze at a glance
The model in question here is the 1.2 Comfort, currently priced at R201 800, slotting in behind the flagship Comfort CVT version with a slightly higher price tag of R217 400.
Image: Wheels24/Robin Classen
Just like a Christmas present, you have to unwrap it from the outside and that is perhaps where most of the changes have taken place in the compact sedan. A sharp, striking and somewhat 'angry' front section benefits from a chrome grille centrepiece that flows nicely into the headlights.
The Amaze sits pretty on the road thanks to a set of 15-inch 'Windmill' alloys, not looking a tad out of place on its 3995mm-long body.
As with all the Amaze models, it makes use of a 1.2-litre i-VTEC engine that churns out a mild 66kW and 110Nm.
Combined that with a kerb weight of just over 900kg, and you unearth the characteristics of respectable fuel consumption. Trend and Comfortline manual models use 5.6-litres/100km while the CVT version does 5.7, according to Honda. That is impressive considering how thirsty automatic gearboxes can make an engine.
Your posterior is housed by adjustable fabric seats, complimented by a neat beige colour scheme on the lower part of the dash and door panels - a nice touch seeing as though most cars opt for an overload of black.
Chrome air vent rings add another nice touch without doing too much.
Image: Wheels24/Robin Classen
Connectivity is quick and simple that can be done via Bluetooth- hands-free telephone (HFT), Aux and USB connection inputs. With the days getting hotter, the automatic climate control (available in both Comfortline models) is a nice feature to have.
On the topic of nice features, the 420-litre boot capacity can be mentioned in the same breath as a Toyota Corolla, with a capacity of 452-litres.
Driving dynamics
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.
Image: Wheels24/Robin Classen
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
