Honda Amaze CNG version might be launched soon

Honda introduced a new variant of the Amaze compact sedan and Brio hatchback yesterday. Along with it, the manufacturer also announced that they will soon launch a CNG variant of the Amaze for the Indian market.

The Amaze, launched in the Indian market in April 2013, is a compact sedan based on the Brio hatchback's platform. The carmaker has managed to save the excise duty by keeping it under four-metres, eventually being able to price it very competitively. Though a sub-four-metre compact sedan, there is enough space inside the cabin and a good boot space of 400 litres that can easily accommodate a CNG kit in it.

The petrol version of the Amaze comes powered by the 88bhp 1.2-litre i-VTEC engine and the oil-burner gets the 100bhp 1.5-litre four-cylinder i-DTEC diesel engine. Transmission options include the five-speed manual gearbox or five-speed automatic. With the addition of the CNG version, the automaker will increase the fuel-efficient car's viability by a substantial amount.

Honda has met quite a bit of success with the launch of the Amaze in India and the car continues to return high sales figures for the manufacturer. The new Earth Dreams diesel motor is Honda's first and most versatile diesel engine currently in production. While it now also powers the Amaze, the new City and the Mobilio, it will be carried over to the Jazz as well which is expected to be launched in India this year.

The huge success of the Amaze sedan in the Indian market will only get better with the availability of CNG trim. It is expected to create an excitement among Indian consumers who have been keen on opting for the alternate fuel. We can expect the CNG version to be priced Rs 60,000 to Rs 70,000 more than the current variants of the vehicle.

Source: The Financial Express