Honda is swimming against the SUV tide with its all-new Amaze, betting that South Africans still want affordable sedan practicality. The 416-litre boot suggests they might be onto something.
The new Amaze arrives with fresh styling, enhanced technology, and a confident tagline that celebrates functionality over flash.
More space for people
The 2025 Amaze embraces Honda’s “Man Maximum/Machine Minimum” philosophy with a wider body that’s grown by 38 mm to 1 733 mm, translating to more elbow room for rear passengers. At 3 995 mm long with a 2 470 mm wheelbase, it maintains compact proportions while maximising interior space.
The exterior gets a bold makeover with a distinctive chequered-flag grille pattern and LED lighting across the range. Daytime running lights come standard on all three derivatives. The design language is confident without being aggressive, featuring a dynamic swage line that runs from headlights to taillights.
Honda offers the Amaze in five colours split between pearlescent (Platinum White and Obsidian Blue) and metallic finishes (Lunar Silver, Radiant Red, and Meteoroid Grey).
Tech that makes sense
Inside, the Amaze gets an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – a significant upgrade. The Trend model comes with a 4-speaker setup, while Comfort derivatives step up to 6 speakers.
The Comfort models add a 15W wireless smartphone charger, because who wants to fumble with cables. A 7-inch driver display provides essential information, while automatic climate control takes the guesswork out of cabin temperature.
The numbers that matter
All Amaze models use Honda’s proven 1.2L SOHC i-VTEC engine producing 66 kW and 110 Nm, paired with either a 5-speed manual or CVT automatic. The combination delivers a claimed 5,5ℓ/100km fuel consumption with CO₂ emissions of 131g/km.
The real star might be the boot: at 416 litres, Honda claims class-leading cargo capacity that should swallow weekend luggage or monthly grocery runs with ease.
Safety equipment
Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure underpins the Amaze’s safety credentials. All models get rear parking sensors with a reverse camera, smart keyless entry with walk-away lock, and Vehicle Stability Assist with ABS.
The Trend model includes dual front airbags, while Comfort derivatives upgrade to six SRS airbags. Hill Start Assist comes standard across the range.
Pricing strategy
Honda has positioned the Amaze competitively:
- Amaze 1.2 Trend MT: R254,900
- Amaze 1.2 Comfort MT: R274,900
- Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT: R294,900
Each model derivative has a 4-year/60 000 km service plan, 5-year/200 000 km warranty, and 3-year AA roadside assistance.
Market positioning
The Amaze enters a competitive compact segment where value and practicality often trump outright performance. Honda’s approach seems to acknowledge this reality, focusing on usable space, reliable technology, and everyday convenience rather than sporting pretensions.
The “Practical Is In” messaging suggests Honda recognises that many South African buyers prioritise functionality, fuel efficiency, and long-term reliability over flashy features or aggressive styling.
Whether this resonates with buyers who have increasingly gravitated toward SUVs and crossovers remains to be seen, but Honda’s bet on practical sedans reflects confidence in a segment that others have largely abandoned.
The new Honda Amaze is available now through Honda dealerships nationwide.
