The 2024 Honda Amaze: In the ever-evolving landscape of India’s automotive market, Honda Cars India Ltd. (HCIL) has made a bold statement with the global debut of the all-new 3rd Generation Honda Amaze. This launch marks a significant milestone for Honda, as India becomes the first country to welcome this latest iteration of the popular compact sedan.
A Legacy of Trust
Since its initial introduction in 2013, the Amaze has been Honda’s entry-level offering in India, showcasing the company’s prowess in the compact sedan category. Over the years, it has garnered the trust of more than 5.8 lakh customers across the country, cementing its position as a formidable player in the segment.
Design Philosophy: The ‘Elite Booster Sedan’
The new Amaze embodies what Honda calls the ‘Elite Booster Sedan’ concept. Developed by Honda R&D Asia Pacific Center in Thailand, this design philosophy aims to elevate the compact sedan experience. The 2024 model strikes a balance between appealing to young, aspirational buyers and meeting the needs of family-oriented users looking for a touch of luxury in their daily drive.
Pricing Strategy
Honda has positioned the new Amaze competitively in the market. The introductory price range starts at Rs 7,99,900 and goes up to Rs 10,89,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi). This pricing strategy is valid for 45 days from the launch, indicating Honda’s intent to capture a significant market share right from the get-go.
Trim Levels and Color Options
The 2024 Amaze is available in three trim levels: V, VX, and ZX, each offered with both manual and CVT transmission options. Honda has also introduced a vibrant palette of colors to suit various tastes. Buyers can choose from Obsidian Blue Pearl, Radiant Red Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Golden Brown Metallic, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, and Lunar Silver Metallic.
Powertrains: Efficiency Meets Performance
Under the hood, the new Amaze continues to impress with its reliable 1.2-liter iVTEC petrol engine. This four-cylinder powerplant generates a respectable 89 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 110 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm. Transmission options include a smooth five-speed manual gearbox and a refined CVT, catering to both enthusiasts and those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience.
Segment-First ADAS: A Game-Changer in Safety
Perhaps the most significant leap forward for the 2024 Amaze is the inclusion of Honda SENSING, the company’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). This makes the Amaze the most affordable ADAS-equipped passenger car in India, setting a new benchmark for safety in the compact sedan segment.
The ADAS suite includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN)
- Auto High-Beam (AHB)
These features not only enhance safety but also align with Honda’s global vision of achieving zero traffic collision fatalities involving their vehicles by 2050.
Comprehensive Safety Package
Beyond ADAS, the new Amaze comes equipped with an array of safety features:
- Six airbags
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
- Hill Start Assist (HSA)
- ABS with EBD
- ISOFIX compatible rear side seats
- Rear parking sensors
- Pedestrian injury mitigation technology
- LaneWatch™ camera
- Multi-angle rear camera with guidelines
- Headlight integration with wipers
This comprehensive safety package ensures that the Amaze offers peace of mind to its occupants, a crucial factor for family-oriented buyers.
Tech-Savvy Features
The 2024 Amaze is not just about safety; it’s also packed with modern conveniences. The car comes with over 37 features and a 5-year complimentary subscription to Honda Connect. Notable tech features include:
- Smartwatch compatibility (Apple Watch OS 4+ and Android Wear OS 2.0+)
- Alexa remote capability
- Car location services
- Geo-fence alert
- Tow-away alert
- Auto crash notification
- Drive view recorder
- Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
- Remote operations
These features position the Amaze as a tech-forward option in its segment, appealing to younger, more connected consumers.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Honda has backed the new Amaze with a robust warranty package. It comes with a standard 3-year unlimited kilometer warranty, which can be optionally extended up to 7 years. Moreover, Honda offers an ‘Anytime Warranty’ up to 10 years from the date of purchase, along with roadside assistance, showcasing the company’s confidence in the product’s reliability.
Market Positioning and Competition
The 2024 Honda Amaze enters a fiercely competitive market, going head-to-head with established players like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire. While the Amaze boasts segment-first ADAS features, it faces stiff competition in other areas. For instance, the Dzire offers features like a 360-degree camera and wireless charging, which are absent in the Amaze.
However, the Amaze’s unique selling propositions, such as its ADAS suite and Honda’s reputation for reliability, give it a distinct edge in the market. The pricing strategy, which positions it slightly higher than some competitors, is justified by the advanced features and safety technologies on offer.
Conclusion: A Compelling Package
The 2024 Honda Amaze represents a significant step forward in the compact sedan segment. By introducing advanced safety features like ADAS at this price point, Honda has raised the bar for what consumers can expect from an entry-level sedan. The blend of style, performance, safety, and technology makes the new Amaze a compelling option for a wide range of buyers.
As the automotive industry in India continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on safety and technology, the 2024 Honda Amaze stands out as a forward-thinking option. It not only caters to the practical needs of compact sedan buyers but also offers a taste of premium features typically found in higher segments.
The success of the new Amaze will likely depend on how well Honda can communicate its unique value proposition to potential buyers. With its combination of advanced features, competitive pricing, and the backing of Honda’s reputation, the 2024 Amaze is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the Indian automotive market.
As consumers become more discerning and safety-conscious, the Amaze’s ADAS features could very well set a new standard in the segment, potentially influencing future offerings from competitors. The 2024 Honda Amaze, therefore, isn’t just a new model launch; it’s a statement of intent from Honda, showcasing their commitment to bringing advanced automotive technologies to a wider audience in India.