Honda Amaze facelift review, test drive

What's it like to drive?

If you've driven the 1.2 petrol manual or the 1.5 diesel Amaze before, you won't find the driving experience any different here. Honda hasn't altered either engine or gearbox though the diesel version does run notably quieter than before. The version of the Amaze that is different to drive is the petrol automatic one. That's because Honda has dropped the earlier auto's torque converter gearbox and replaced it with a more efficient CVT unit. The gearbox executes shifts in a smooth and seamless manner and what's nice is the rubberband effect, inherent on CVTs, isn't all that pronounced here. The 'box performs well on the highway too – floor the accelerator and it holds the revs at 4000rpm as it starts gaining pace. Fuel economy is a claimed 18.1kpl which is impressive. As for the engine, it's refined as ever, with acceptable levels of engine noise and vibration making its way through to the cabin.

The suspension feels the same as on the earlier car. It's set on the softer side though there's an underlying firmness. At low speeds, the ride quality is best described as amicable. The Amaze is comfortable but doesn't feel as absorbent or settled as the Figo Aspire or Tata's Zest. Handling is light and entertaining but again, not, at class best levels. The steering, though, feels nice and weighted and lends confidence to the driver at high speeds.  ­­

Should I buy it?

The Amaze always had a neat design, spacious cabin, a peppy petrol engine and a frugal (if noisy) diesel engine. With the facelift, the Amaze adds more eye-catching styling, a richer interior and a well-suited CVT gearbox to the list of reasons you should be interested in it. While the changes are not far-reaching, they do help enhance the Amaze's overall appeal. Honda has done well to price it competitively too. Prices start at Rs 5.29 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and top off at Rs 8.20 lakh for the VX (diesel) model. Without bringing the whole bunch of compact sedans together, it's hard to tell where the new Amaze stands. But in isolation, this is the best the Amaze has been.