When it comes to sub-4-meter sedans in India, the Honda Amaze and Maruti Suzuki Dzire are two of the most popular choices. Both cars have recently received updates, with new designs, features, and improved performance. But which one truly stands out when it comes to performance? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the specifications, features, and real-world performance of these two compact sedans to help you decide which one deserves the crown.
Introduction
The sub-4-meter sedan segment in India is highly competitive, with buyers looking for a perfect blend of style, comfort, and performance. The Honda Amaze and Maruti Suzuki Dzire have been fierce competitors for years, and their latest iterations continue this rivalry. While both cars offer updated styling and features, their performance metrics are where the real battle lies. Let’s break down their engines, transmissions, acceleration, and pricing to see which one comes out on top.
Engine and Transmission
Both the Honda Amaze and Maruti Dzire are powered by 1.2-liter petrol engines, but there are key differences in their configurations and performance outputs.
| Specification | Honda Amaze | Maruti Dzire |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L, 4-cylinder | 1.2L, 3-cylinder |
| Power (hp) | 89 | 82 |
| Torque (Nm) | 110 | 112 |
| Transmission | 7-step CVT | 5-speed AMT |
| Kerb Weight (kg) | 986 | 960 |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 90.2 hp/tonne | 85.4 hp/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 111.5 Nm/tonne | 116.6 Nm/tonne |
Key Insights:
- The Honda Amaze has a slight power advantage (89hp vs. 82hp), but the Maruti Dzire produces marginally more torque (112Nm vs. 110Nm).
- The Amaze uses a 7-step CVT transmission, which is smoother but can feel less engaging. The Dzire, on the other hand, uses a 5-speed AMT, which is more basic and can feel jerky during gear shifts.
- Despite being 26kg heavier, the Amaze has a better power-to-weight ratio, which contributes to its superior acceleration.
Performance: 0-100kph Acceleration
Acceleration is a key metric for performance, and here’s how the two sedans stack up:
| Speed (kph) | Honda Amaze (seconds) | Maruti Dzire (seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | 1.76 | 1.43 |
| 40 | 4.10 | 3.27 |
| 60 | 6.41 | 6.73 |
| 80 | 9.21 | 10.49 |
| 100 | 13.12 | 15.21 |
| 120 | 18.23 | 20.61 |
Key Insights:
- The Dzire initially takes the lead, reaching 20kph and 40kph faster due to its torque advantage.
- However, the Amaze catches up by 60kph and pulls ahead significantly at higher speeds, reaching 100kph 2.09 seconds faster than the Dzire.
- By 120kph, the Amaze’s lead extends to 2.38 seconds, showcasing its superior high-speed performance.
In-Gear Acceleration
In-gear acceleration is crucial for overtaking and highway driving. Here’s how the two cars perform:
| Speed Range (kph) | Honda Amaze (seconds) | Maruti Dzire (seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| 20-80 | 8.91 | 8.95 |
| 40-100 | 10.43 | 11.18 |
Key Insights:
- The Amaze edges out the Dzire in both tests, thanks to its smoother CVT gearbox.
- The Dzire’s AMT struggles with jerky shifts, which slows it down in real-world driving scenarios.
Features and Specifications
Both cars come loaded with features, but there are some differences worth noting:
| Feature | Honda Amaze | Maruti Dzire |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment | 7-inch touchscreen | 7-inch SmartPlay Studio |
| Instrument Cluster | Semi-digital | Analog |
| Safety | Dual airbags, ABS, EBD | Dual airbags, ABS, EBD |
| Comfort | Rear AC vents, leather seats | Rear AC vents, fabric seats |
| Boot Space | 420 liters | 378 liters |
Key Insights:
- The Amaze offers a more premium feel with its semi-digital instrument cluster and leather seats.
- The Dzire counters with its user-friendly SmartPlay Studio infotainment system.
- The Amaze has a larger boot space, making it more practical for family trips.
Price Comparison
Here’s a breakdown of the prices for all variants:
| Variant | Honda Amaze (INR) | Maruti Dzire (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Base (Petrol MT) | 8.19 lakh | 6.84 lakh |
| Mid (Petrol CVT/AMT) | 9.45 lakh | 8.12 lakh |
| Top (Petrol CVT/AMT) | 11.29 lakh | 10.19 lakh |
Key Insights:
- The Dzire is more affordable across all variants, making it a better choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- The Amaze justifies its higher price with better performance and premium features.
FAQs
- Which car is faster, the Honda Amaze or Maruti Dzire?
- The Honda Amaze is faster, especially at higher speeds, with a 0-100kph time of 13.12 seconds compared to the Dzire’s 15.21 seconds.
- Which car has a better transmission?
- The Amaze’s CVT is smoother, while the Dzire’s AMT can feel jerky.
- Is the Maruti Dzire more fuel-efficient?
- Yes, the Dzire’s lighter weight and efficient engine make it slightly more fuel-efficient.
- Which car has more features?
- The Amaze offers more premium features like a semi-digital instrument cluster and leather seats.
- Which car is better for city driving?
- The Dzire’s lighter weight and AMT make it slightly better for city driving.
- Which car has a larger boot space?
- The Amaze has a larger boot space of 420 liters compared to the Dzire’s 378 liters.
- Is the Honda Amaze worth the extra cost?
- If you prioritize performance and premium features, the Amaze is worth the extra cost.
- Which car is better for highway driving?
- The Amaze’s superior high-speed performance makes it better for highway driving.
- Does the Dzire have better resale value?
- Yes, Maruti Suzuki cars generally have better resale value in India.
- Which car is more comfortable?
- The Amaze offers better comfort with its premium interior and smoother ride quality.
Conclusion
The Honda Amaze and Maruti Dzire are both excellent choices in the sub-4-meter sedan segment, but they cater to slightly different audiences. The Amaze shines with its superior performance, premium features, and comfort, making it ideal for those who prioritize driving dynamics and luxury. On the other hand, the Dzire is more affordable, fuel-efficient, and user-friendly, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers and city drivers.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to your priorities. If performance and premium features are your focus, the Honda Amaze is the clear winner. But if you’re looking for a practical, budget-friendly option, the Maruti Dzire won’t disappoint.
