If you’re an e-hailer, you’re going to want to catch a ride in the new Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT. Into its third generation (previously known as the Brio Amaze), the new compact sedan won’t win any design or performance awards, that’s for sure. But after spending a week behind the wheel, we can report it’s perfectly fit for purpose …
2025 HONDA AMAZE 1.2 COMFORT CVT
As we know, the mobility landscape has changed drastically in the last decade. And vehicles like the Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT have been developed to fill an entirely new segment – that of e-hailing vehicle. Essentially, anyone putting together a fleet of Uber vehicles is perfectly catered for by the Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT.
Firstly, it’s affordable at just R294 900. Secondly, it’s a Honda, so it will run more reliably than the driver and passengers; especially those who are up at 03h00 on a Saturday. Thirdly, for a small car it possesses the most interior space possible. And fourthly, it’s exceedingly economical, which keeps daily running costs to a minimum.
TIDY TOT
Of course, we’re approaching this review purely from this point of view. Because even Honda admits that’s where the overwhelming majority of this market lives. You can forget the local lawn bowls club and misty-eyed stories of contentment by elderly Honda owners. Those brand fans are still in their original Jazz/CR-V. Nevertheless, so much of the latest Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT is satisfyingly new.
Take a look at the way Honda’s designers have visually beefed-up its presence. There’s the bluff chromed grille – one that’s slowly becoming the new corporate face of the marque. Then, on the inside, tweaked dash architecture is a definite improvement. A new touchscreen infotainment system offers responsive and intuitive operation, Apple CarPlay and a rearview camera. So, hopefully no more random Ubers turning up in your driveway, knocking over your postbox!
EQUIPPED TO THE NINES
Standard equipment on this Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT is more than adequate. We’re talking about making the lives easier of the drivers who will be piloting these things day and night, like wireless cellphone charging. There are plenty of soft-touch points on the inside, too. Build quality is robust and there’s a generous 420-litre boot (even if the rear seats don’t fold flat at all).
As before, beneath the bonnet is Honda’s 1.2-litre four-pot petrol. 66 kW and 110 Nm is nothing to get overly excited about. But then again, you’re in the back of an Uber, you’re not meant to get excited. The claimed average fuel economy is 5.5 l/100 km, however, we saw closer to 6.5 l/100 km in the real world. Drivers will enjoy the no fuss, two-pedal CVT that’s perfectly adequate in mixed driving conditions.
THE VERDICT
In summary then, the new Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT is simply a better-rounded car than the model it replaces. Honda has clearly listened to the feedback of owners. It’s got more of the stuff you need, and any undesirable elements have been thoroughly improved upon. Whether you’re the driver, passenger or fleet owner, it’s more refined, comfier and better equipped. Better still, the Amaze now feels like a genuine Honda.
THE FIGURES
- 2025 Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort CVT
- Engine: 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol
- Power: 66 kW and 110 Nm
- Performance: 12.5 sec 0-100 km/h / top speed 160 km/h
- Economy: 5.5 l/100 km
- Gearbox: CVT
- Price: R294 900
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE NEW HONDA AMAZE?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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