Honda Cars India Limited has officially launched another new variant in its best-selling compact sedan model, Amaze in the country. This is the first ever CNG version in this sub 4-meter sedan's portfolio and it has undergone quite a few modifications in terms of engine specifications. Powering this model series is the same 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, but its components have modified to make it compatible for a bi-fuel option. However, its power and torque remains to be the same with 86.7bhp and 109Nm respectively. The manufacturer has stated that this fuel kit is available at any authorized dealer in the country for which, the buyers needs to pay an additional amount, which would be conveyed to them by the dealer itself. In terms of exteriors and interiors, this compact sedan remains entirely similar to the already existing versions. As far as its features are concerned, this newly introduced Honda Amaze S Plus i-VTEC trim is introduced with all the features that are standard in the existent S grade. The list includes an air conditioning system, power assisted steering wheel, an ignition key reminder and a few other such convenient aspects. On the safety front, this mid range trim gets all the standard features like an engine immobilizer, WAVE key function and a high mount third stop lamp. The manufacturer has placed this vehicle against the likes of Tata Zest, Hyundai Xcent and Maruti Swift Dzire in the Indian automobile market.
Exteriors:
In terms of exteriors, this brand new variant is introduced without any changes made to its cosmetics. To begin with the front facade, its radiator grille has a radiant design, as it is done up with a lot of chrome treatment. It is surrounded by a beautifully curved clear lens headlight cluster, which is powered by halogen headlamps and turn indicators. The front bumper has a rugged structure, but its air dam looks quite small. The overall look of this facet is highlighted by the stylish company's insignia, which is embedded on to the grille. Coming to the sides, there are a lot of expressive lines in this facet, right from the front to the rear the rear end. Its fenders are fitted with a sturdy set of steel wheels, but its full wheel covers makes it look elegant.
Interiors:
The dual tone internal cabin is incorporated with ergonomically designed seats, which are covered with premium upholstery. These seats are integrated with head restraints and provide ample leg space for all passengers. Its rear seat has split foldable function, which helps in increasing the boot volume of car. The smooth dashboard is equipped with a few features like AC vents, a large glove box, an advanced instrument panel with several functions and a three spoke steering wheel, which is mounted with control buttons. The advanced instrument panel is equipped with several functions for keeping the driver updated. The list includes a low fuel warning light, a digital clock, driver seat belt reminder notification, key in reminder with buzzer, individual door open display and so on.
Engine and Performance:
This newly introduced trim gets the same 1.2-litre, i-VTEC petrol engine that displaces 1198cc. However, the manufacturer has made a few modifications to this motor in order to affix it with the CNG fuel kit for better fuel efficiency. Its valve configuration remains to be same with single overhead camshaft featuring 4-cylinders and 16-valves. Its produces a power of 86.7bhp at 6000rpm and yields 109Nm at just 450rpm. The manufacturer has mated this motor to an advanced five speed manual transmission gearbox that releases the torque output to the front wheels. As a result of affixing a CNG fuel kit, its fuel efficiency has been further improved to 23 Km/Kg.
Braking and Handling:
The car maker has given this compact sedan an efficient braking as well as suspension mechanism, which keeps it well balanced at all times. Its front and rear wheels are fitted with a set of disc and drum brakes respectively. Its front axle is assembled with a McPherson strut, while rear gets Torsion beam type of mechanism. Both these axles are further assisted by coil springs, which adds to the comfort. On the other hand, it has an electric power assisted steering system, which is quite responsive. It comes with tilt adjustment function and results in smooth handling. This steering wheel supports a minimum turning radius of 4.5 meters, which quite good for this segment.
Comfort Features:
This Honda Amaze S Plus i-VTEC is incorporated with a number of sophisticated features, which gives a pleasurable driving experience. It has an efficient air conditioning unit along with a heater and pollen filter for purifying the cabin air. This trim is bestowed with a multifunctional steering wheel, which is mounted with phone as well as audio control buttons for convenience. The car maker has given this vehicle a number of utility based aspects like cup and bottle holders, map pockets in all doors, glove box with pen and card holder, interior lamps with theater dimming effect, rear luggage cover and a spacious luggage compartment of 400 litres, which can be further increased by folding its rear seat. For best in-car entertainment, it has a music system, which supports Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, Aux-in interface, AM/FM radio tuner, CD/MP3 player along with four speakers.
Safety Features:
Being the mid range variant this compact sedan is bestowed with all crucial and vital aspects, which keeps the vehicle as well as passengers safe. The seat belts are given for all occupants with pretensioner and load limiter that minimizes the impact of collision. It has an advanced engine immobilizer, which prevents it from any unauthorized entry. Apart from these, it also has driver seat belt reminder on instrument panel, speed dependent auto door lock along with central locking system, a high mounted stop lamp and so on. It has a rigid body structure, which comes with impact beams and crumple zones for reducing the impact of any accident.
Pros:
1. Compact size makes it easy to handle on city roads.
2. Spacious internal section with lots of comfort features.
Cons:
1. Lack of ABS and airbags are disadvantage.
2. Ground clearance should be better.
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