I’ve always prioritized safety when picking family cars, especially in India’s unpredictable traffic. When news broke about the third-generation Honda Amaze achieving a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for adult occupant protection, I had to dig deeper. Priced from around ₹7.41 lakh to ₹10 lakh ex-showroom, this compact sedan stood out—not just for the score, but for proving reliable engineering in real crash tests. I reviewed the full Bharat NCAP results and specs to see if it matches everyday needs without hype.
Key Features
- 1.2-litre i-VTEC petrol engine (89 bhp, 110 Nm) with 5-speed MT or CVT
- Six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill-hold assist, and tyre pressure monitoring standard
- 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, rear camera
- Automatic climate control, rear AC vents, wireless charger on higher trims
- 416-litre boot, 35-litre fuel tank, 172mm ground clearance
- LED headlights, 16-inch alloys on top variants, keyless entry
Engine Performance
The Amaze’s 1.2-litre petrol unit delivers smooth acceleration for city drives, hitting 0-100 kmph in about 12.8 seconds. It pairs well with the CVT for effortless highway cruising at 100 kmph without strain. Real-world tests show 18-19 kmpl on highways, dropping to 14-15 in traffic—reliable but not class-leading. No turbo punch means overtakes need planning, yet the refined SOHC setup keeps vibrations low.
Build Durability
Bharat NCAP’s tests highlight a strong body shell, earning high marks in frontal offset (14.33/16) and side barrier (14/16) crashes. The 5-star adult score (28.33/32) reflects good head and neck protection across impacts. Standard six airbags and reinforced structure add layers, though side pole was just “OK.” Long-term owners report minimal rust in humid areas with basic care. Durability shines in 1,241 kg test weight handling daily potholes.
Comfort Design
Cabin space impresses for the segment, with generous rear legroom and headroom for three adults. Soft-touch dash and supportive fabric seats feel premium without excess. Exterior gets sharper LED lights and a bolder grille, measuring 3,995mm long. Ride quality absorbs urban bumps well, though highways reveal some firmness at high speeds. Rear vents and cooled glovebox enhance trips.
Real-World Usage
In Mumbai traffic, the compact 2,470mm wheelbase aids parking, while the rear camera simplifies maneuvers. Fuel efficiency holds during mixed use, and the 416-litre boot swallows weekend luggage easily. Higher trims add blind-spot monitors for confidence on highways. Cabin noise stays low up to 120 kmph, making it suitable for 400km drives.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Top-tier adult crash safety with proven scores
- Feature-packed from base variant
- Roomy, practical interior
- Refined engine and smooth CVT
Cons:
- No diesel or CNG options
- Marginal side chest protection
- Base variants lack alloys, projector lamps
Who Should Buy It?
Families seeking proven safety on a budget fit best, especially first-time sedan buyers valuing space. City commuters who prioritize refinement over power will appreciate the easy drive. Long-distance travelers needing boot space and efficiency make sense too.
Who Should Avoid It?
Performance enthusiasts wanting turbo thrust or diesel torque should look elsewhere. Those needing absolute top child scores (Dzire edges it) or premium ADAS across trims might skip. Heavy off-road users face ground clearance limits.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Honda Amaze 2025 | Maruti Dzire 2025 | Hyundai Aura |
| Bharat NCAP Adult/Child | 5-star / 4-star | 5-star / 5-star | 2-star Global NCAP |
| Engine/Power | 1.2L Petrol, 89 bhp | 1.2L Petrol, 82 bhp | 1.2L Petrol, 83 bhp |
| Price Range (ex-showroom) | ₹7.41-10L | ₹6.26-9.31L | ₹5.98-8.42L |
| Boot Space | 416L | ~378L | 402L |
| Key Edge | 6 airbags std | Better child score | Cheaper entry |
Value for Money Score
8.5/10
Strong safety and features justify the price in a competitive segment, especially versus lower-rated rivals. Base models pack essentials without excess cost.
Final Rating
| Category | Score (/10) |
| Engine/Performance | 8.0 |
| Build/Durability | 9.0 |
| Comfort/Design | 8.5 |
| Features | 8.5 |
| Overall | 8.5 |
Expert Verdict
The 2025 Honda Amaze delivers credible safety credentials via its Bharat NCAP 5-star adult rating, backed by thoughtful space and efficiency. It suits practical buyers over thrill-seekers. Test drive to confirm ride fit—solid choice for safe, no-fuss motoring.
FAQs
Does the Honda Amaze have six airbags in all variants?
Yes, all six variants include six airbags as standard.
What is the exact Bharat NCAP score for child protection?
It earned 4 stars with 40.81/49 points, strong dynamic performance but lower vehicle assessment.
Is the Amaze available with a manual or automatic?
Both 5-speed manual and CVT options exist across variants.
How’s the real-world mileage?
Expect 18-19 kmpl highway, 14-15 city with the petrol engine.
What’s the boot space like for families?
416 litres handles luggage well for four passengers.
Any ADAS features?
Top ZX variant offers basic ADAS like adaptive cruise; not on base models.
Ground clearance for bad roads?
172mm suffices for most Indian roads but watch speed breakers.
