Honda Amaze 2nd Gen

The 2nd Gen Honda Amaze was available with a 1.2-liter i-VTEC petrol engine, producing 88.5 bhp and 110 Nm of torque. It came with a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic. The petrol engine offered an ARAI-claimed mileage of 18.3-18.6 kmpl. The Amaze was known for its refined engine and smooth CVT, making it a good city commuter.

When considering a used Amaze, especially one with higher mileage, pay close attention to the engine's health. Listen for any unusual noises (knocking, ticking) during startup and operation. Check for excessive smoke from the exhaust. For manual variants, test the clutch for slippage or a heavy feel. For CVT variants, ensure smooth and linear power delivery without any jerking or excessive rubber-band effect. Inquire about the service history, specifically oil changes and transmission fluid replacements. Some owners reported lower-than-expected city mileage; factor this into your expectations.

Ride and Handling

The 2nd Gen Honda Amaze offered a comfortable ride quality, particularly suited for city driving and tackling broken Indian roads. It featured a McPherson Strut front suspension and a Torsion Beam rear suspension. The electric power steering was light and easy to maneuver, making it convenient in urban traffic.

During a test drive of a used model, assess the ride comfort over bumps and potholes. Listen for any suspension noise (clunking, squeaking), which is a common reported issue in older Amaze models and could indicate worn bushes or shock absorbers. Check the steering for any play or looseness. While the Amaze is not a performance sedan, it offers predictable handling. Ensure the brakes feel firm and responsive, as some owners reported a spongy brake feel.

The interior of the 2nd Gen Honda Amaze is designed for practicality and comfort, offering a spacious cabin for its segment. It features a dual-tone beige and black theme, aiming for an airy feel. The seats are generally comfortable, and rear-seat legroom is a highlight.

For a used Amaze, pay close attention to the condition of the fabric upholstery for stains, tears, or excessive wear, especially on the driver's seat. Check the functionality of all manual or electric seat adjustments. Test all power windows for smooth operation and ensure there are no unusual noises. Inspect the dashboard and door panels for rattles, loose fittings, or fading, which can be common in older mass-market cars. Verify that all air conditioning vents and controls work effectively, as AC performance issues have been reported in some older Amaze units. Check the boot space (420 liters) for any signs of water leakage or damage.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in higher variants of the 2nd Gen Honda Amaze typically featured a 7-inch Digipad 2.0 touchscreen unit (or earlier versions). This system offered functionalities like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. Lower variants came with a basic 2-DIN audio system.

When evaluating a used model, test the responsiveness of the touchscreen for lag or freezing. Ensure Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect reliably. Check the functionality of all physical buttons and knobs. Test the audio system's sound quality and ensure all speakers are working. Verify USB and AUX input functionality. Given that it's a discontinued model, be aware that future software updates for the infotainment system may be limited or cease entirely, potentially impacting compatibility with newer smartphone operating systems or the addition of new features.

The exterior design of the 2nd Gen Honda Amaze, launched in 2018 and facelifted in 2021, features a more mature and proportionate look compared to its predecessor. It adopted a solid wing face chrome grille, sleek headlamps, and a well-integrated boot, giving it a more premium appearance within the sub-4-meter sedan segment.

When considering a used 2nd Gen Amaze, inspect the body panels carefully for signs of rust, especially around the wheel arches and lower sills, as these areas can be prone to corrosion in older vehicles, particularly in humid climates. Check for consistent panel gaps, which could indicate past accident repairs. Examine the condition of the headlights and taillights for hazing or cracks. Ensure all exterior lighting, including turn indicators on ORVMs (if present), is functional. Inspect the tires for uneven wear, which might suggest alignment issues or suspension problems.

Safety features in the 2nd Gen Honda Amaze were standard for its segment, though its Global NCAP rating was 2 stars for adult occupant protection and 0 stars for child occupant protection, which is a significant point to note for safety-conscious buyers.

Standard safety features included dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Higher variants might have included a rear parking camera and sensors. When buying used, ensure all airbags are intact and there are no warning lights on the dashboard. Test the ABS by performing a controlled hard brake. Verify the functionality of parking sensors and the rear camera. While ADAS features were introduced in the 3rd Gen Amaze, they are not present in the 2nd Gen model. Buyers should be aware of the car's crash test rating and drive accordingly.

As a discontinued model, the 2nd Gen Honda Amaze competes primarily in the used car market against its direct segment rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Hyundai Aura, and Tata Tigor. These models, both new and older generations, offer similar propositions in terms of compact dimensions, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The 2nd Gen Amaze's key advantage in the used market is its potentially lower price point compared to newer versions or even new models of its competitors, offering Honda's renowned reliability at a more accessible cost.

On the new car front, the 3rd Gen Honda Amaze itself is a competitor, offering updated features and safety. Buyers might also consider other new compact sedans or even entry-level compact SUVs. However, for those on a strict budget, the used 2nd Gen Amaze provides a compelling alternative.

The 2025 Honda Amaze 2nd Gen, now exclusively available in the used car market, stands as a practical and reliable choice for those seeking an affordable and spacious compact sedan. Its comfortable ride, refined petrol engine (especially with the CVT), and Honda's reputation for durability make it an attractive pre-owned proposition.

However, prospective buyers must be diligent. Thoroughly inspect for common issues like suspension noise, cabin rattles, and AC performance. Crucially, as a petrol vehicle, a 2nd Gen Amaze older than 15 years will be subject to the NCR ban on petrol vehicles, impacting its usability in that region. Buyers outside NCR or those planning shorter ownership periods might find it an excellent value. If a well-maintained unit with a clear service history is found, the 2nd Gen Amaze offers a comfortable, efficient, and dependable ownership experience that punches above its weight in the used car segment.