The Honda Amaze I 1.5d (100 Hp) represents Honda’s entry into the sub-compact sedan market, specifically tailored for price-sensitive markets like India and other developing nations. Introduced in 2013 and continuing through 2016, this variant played a crucial role in establishing Honda as a competitive force in the segment. The Amaze I, built on a modified Honda Brio platform, aimed to provide a spacious and fuel-efficient vehicle with the reliability expected of the Honda brand. The 1.5d variant, powered by a diesel engine, was positioned as the fuel-economy leader within the Amaze lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing low running costs. It served as the base diesel model, with higher trims offering additional features and refinements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Amaze |
| Generation | Amaze I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5d (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 188.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | N15A1 |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1060-1075 kg (2336.9 – 2369.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 400 l (14.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3990 mm (157.09 in.) |
| Width | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Height | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2405 mm (94.69 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Amaze 1.5d is the N15A1 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, a member of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, was designed for efficiency and refinement. It features a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve throttle response. The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 1.5d engine produces 100 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. This torque peak, available at relatively low engine speeds, is a key characteristic of the engine, providing good drivability in everyday conditions. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness in the target market.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5d variant of the Honda Amaze offers a practical and economical driving experience. While not designed for outright performance, the engine provides adequate power for city driving and highway cruising. The turbocharger helps to mitigate turbo lag, delivering a reasonably responsive feel. The 5-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios optimized for fuel efficiency. Compared to the petrol variants of the Amaze, the 1.5d offers significantly better fuel economy and stronger low-end torque. However, it lacks the refinement and higher revving capability of the petrol engines. Against higher-spec diesel trims, the 1.5d feels less powerful, but its simplicity and lower weight contribute to a slightly more agile feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5d variant of the Amaze typically served as the entry-level diesel trim. Standard equipment generally included power steering, air conditioning, and basic safety features like ABS. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but basic design. Optional extras, depending on the market and year, could include power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trims of the Amaze 1.5d added features like alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system, and additional safety equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The Honda Amaze I utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for the often-challenging road conditions found in its target markets. The front brakes are disc brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes – a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance, offering light and easy steering feel. Tire size is typically 175/65 R14, mounted on 14-inch steel or alloy wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Amaze 1.5d was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. Its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and Honda’s reputation for reliability were key selling points. Compared to competitors like the Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire and Hyundai Accent, the Amaze offered a compelling combination of features and value. While some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of refinement compared to more expensive diesel engines, the overall package was considered competitive. The 1.5d variant was particularly popular among buyers prioritizing fuel economy and low running costs.
Legacy
The Honda Amaze I 1.5d established a strong foundation for the Amaze nameplate in the sub-compact sedan segment. The N15A1 diesel engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, with many examples still on the road today. While the Amaze has been updated with newer generations and more advanced technology, the original 1.5d variant remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance costs contribute to its continued appeal.
