Honda Amaze vs KIA Carens
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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VS
KIA Carens
1.5D SX Auto
Diesel
6-Speed Automatic
Current
ZAR 599,995
ex-showroom
⚡ 85 kW
🔧 250 Nm
⛽ 18.9 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Honda Amaze vs KIA Carens: the short answer
Carens has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Amaze remains close.
Amaze starts ZAR 145,095 cheaper
Amaze from ZAR 254,900 · Carens from ZAR 399,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | Amaze66 kW | Carens85 kW @ 4000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | Amaze110 Nm | Carens250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm |
| Engine Size | Amaze1199 cc | Carens1493 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | Amaze18.2 km/l | Carens18.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | Amaze170 mm | Carens180 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Carens
1.5D SX Auto
Hagalu editorial rating
4.4/5
★★★★★★★★★★
Desk research · Exact variant
Hagalu Editorial Team ·
Editorial assessment, not a customer rating. Not road-tested for this review.
Read the review and score breakdown →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Amaze
Strengths
- Nothing stands out clearly here.
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:
General Use
Specification evidence leader
Carens
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
- No obvious weak spots to flag.
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
Amaze
- Buyers who prefer this derivative's confirmed specification mix
Carens
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published warranty or service cover
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2018 | 2026 |
| Generation | Based on Honda’s compact car platform optimized for affordability, efficiency, and ease of use | Fourth-generation Kia Carens (KY) facelift; South African launch May 2026 |
| Facelift History | Introduced in South Africa as a practical entry sedan with minor updates over time in features and safety | Current facelift launched in South Africa in May 2026 |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2026 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Sedan | MPV |
| Color Note | White, Silver, Grey, Red, Blue | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Pewter Olive, Snow White Pearl |
| Dealer Stock Note | Top grade in the South Africa lineup | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | active |
| Segment | Sedan | MPV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 954 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Type | Sedan | MPV |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3995 mm | 4550 mm |
| Width | 1695 mm | 1800 mm |
| Height | 1498 mm | 1734 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm | 2780 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 170 mm | 180 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 170 mm | 175 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 l | 45 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 420 l | 216 l |
| Kerb Weight | 954 kg | 1488 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1380 kg | 2050 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 426 kg | 562 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 900 kg | 750 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 3 rows |
| Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 4.9 m | 5.4 m |
| Front Headroom | 990 mm | 1062 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 920 mm | 1045 mm |
| Front Legroom | 770 mm | 1031 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 920 mm | 928 mm |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | Not Applicable | 1563 mm |
| Rear Track Width | Not Applicable | 1587 mm |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Chassis Type | Monocoque | Unibody |
| Power Steering | Electric Power Steering | Yes |
| Steering Column | Tilt | Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | MacPherson Strut | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | Torsion Beam | Coil Spring |
| Chassis Material | Monocoque | Unibody |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | Torsion Beam | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion Beam | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Climate Control | Manual | Yes |
| Power Windows | All Doors | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Remote Key | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Wireless | Yes |
| Sunroof | Not Available | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | No |
| Automatic Headlamps | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Not Available | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 420 l | 1660 l |
| AC Type | Manual | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not Available | No |
| Climate Zones | Manual | 2 |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | All Doors | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | 24 Months | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 5.5 | 5.3 |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Available | No |
| Performance Data Logger | Not Available | No |
| Power Mirrors | All Doors | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Not Available | Yes |
| Rev Matching | Not Available | No |
| Seat Type | Premium Fabric | Leather Seats |
| Skid Plates | Not Available | No |
| Telescopic Steering | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Voice Command | Not Available | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | Not Available | Yes |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 14.5 sec | 11.5 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Manual | Yes |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | Not Available |
| Common Rail Injection | Multi-Point Fuel Injection | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | Not Available | No |
| Difflock | Not Available | No |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Remote Key | Yes |
| Lift Gate | Not Available | No |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | Not Available |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | Manual | Yes |
| Mirror | All Doors | Electric |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | Remote Key | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | Not Available | No |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | Remote Key | Yes |
| Rim Size | 15-inch Wheel Covers | 215/55 R17 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | Not Available | Yes |
| Sonar | Rear | Yes |
| Sound System | 4 | 8 |
| Source Model Column | amaze | carens |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | Not Available |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Sub Frame | Monocoque | Unibody |
| Surround View Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | Not Available |
| TPMS | Not Available | Yes |
| Trim Level | top | flagship |
| Unlocking | Remote Key | Yes |
| Variant Role | Core range derivative | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Vdc | Standard | Yes |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Remote Key | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | Remote Key | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Wireless | Yes |
| Intercooler | - | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.34 |
| Roof Load | - | 50 kg |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Yes |
| Steering Response | - | Normal |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Spare Wheel | Not Available | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes |
| Driver Display | - | Digital Cluster |
| Heads Up Display | - | Yes |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | Yes |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | - | Yes |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Front Armrest | - | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | - | No |
| Remote Start | - | No |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Remote |
| Boot Opener | - | Remote |
| Heated Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Rear Wing | - | Yes |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | Yes |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Centre Console | - | Centre Armrest |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 420 l | 1660 l |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 1.5-litre Turbocharged Diesel |
| Engine Code | Not Officially Disclosed | D4FA |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Diesel |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | 1199 cc | 1493 cc |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Not Officially Disclosed | Inline |
| Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | 4 |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Multi-Point Injection | Common Rail Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Officially Disclosed | 16.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Officially Disclosed | 75 mm |
| Stroke | Not Officially Disclosed | 84.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 66 kW | 85 kW @ 4000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 110 Nm | 250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | CVT | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 170 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 14.5 sec | 13.1 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | 18.4 sec |
| Drive Modes | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | 4500 rpm |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 67.3 kW/tonne | 57.1 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 112.2 Nm/tonne | 168.0 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | CVT Automatic | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front Wheel Drive | FWD |
| LSD Available | Not Applicable | No |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Applicable | No |
| Paddle Shifters | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Applicable | 3.63 |
| Number of Gears | 5 | 6 |
| Transmission Type | Continuously Variable Transmission | Automatic Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Dry Dual Clutch |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Not Applicable | No |
| Gear Shift Type | CVT Automatic | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4x2 | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | CVT Automatic | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | 4x2 | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Transmission Speeds | 5 | 6 |
| Engine Position | - | Front Transverse |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 15.1:1 |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 18.2 km/l | 18.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | 14 km/l | 15.3 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 19 km/l | 22.1 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 l | 45 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 5 | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | 18.2 km/l | 18.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 35 | 45 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Alarm System | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Not Available | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Yes |
| AEB | Not Available | Yes |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Not Available | Yes |
| Curtain Airbags | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | 2 | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | 2 | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Not Available | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Not Available | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Not Available | Yes |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 2 | 6 |
| ESC With Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 5 |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Rear | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Yes |
| Auto Lights | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | Not Available | Yes |
| EV Mode | Not Available | No |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Rear | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Park Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Emergency Braking | Not Available | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Rear | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | Rear | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | Standard | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Not Available | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| Sport Mode | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Yes |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Premium Fabric | Leather |
| Seat Adjustment | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Heated Seats | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Steering Type | Electric Power Steering | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | 1421 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | 1441 mm |
| Steering Wheel Material | Not Applicable | Leather |
| Interior Colour Options | 5 | Black |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Fabric Seats | Premium Fabric | No |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual | 4-Way Manual |
| Driver Seat | Manual | 8-Way Power |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | Functional cabin with touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity, comfortable seating, and practical storage spaces | 7-seat layout with sliding second row (EX+), 10.25-inch touchscreen (EX+), panoramic sunroof (SX), ventilated front seats (SX), digital cluster (SX), full ADAS suite (SX), 6 airbags |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Premium Fabric | Leather |
| Interior Colours | 5 | Black |
| Seat Trim | Premium Fabric | Leather |
| Rear USB Ports | - | Yes |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Digital |
| Rear AC Vents | - | Yes |
| Cooled Seats | - | Yes |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | 4-Way Manual |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | Yes |
| Memory Seats | - | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | - | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1660 |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Seat Fold Type | - | Yes |
| Armrest Front | - | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Yes |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Yes |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 7-inch Touchscreen | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 4 | 8 |
| Navigation System | Not Available | Yes |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Not Applicable | Yes |
| USB Ports | Not Available | 4 |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | Not Available | Yes |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 7-inch Touchscreen | 12.3 |
| Infotainment Display | 7-inch Touchscreen | 12.3 |
| Audio Speakers | 4 | 8 |
| Audio System | 4 | Yes |
| Display Audio | 7-inch Touchscreen | 12.3-inch Touchscreen |
| Infotainment Screen | 7-inch Touchscreen | 12.3 |
| Connected Services | Standard | Yes |
| Voice Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Touchscreen | 7-inch Touchscreen | 12.3 |
| Rear Usb | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | Yes |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Head Up Display | - | Yes |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Multi Information Display | - | Digital |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 4 |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | Front | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Not Available | Yes |
| Alloy Wheel Design | 15-inch Wheel Covers | Alloy |
| Exterior Colour Options | 5 | Multiple |
| Roof Type | Not Available | Standard |
| Body Type | Sedan | MPV |
| DRL | LED | Yes |
| Fog Lights | Front | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | Front | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | Yes |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Not Available | Standard |
| Exterior Colour Options | 5 | 5 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | All Doors | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | Front | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Headlamps | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Headlights | Halogen Projector | Yes |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | Not Available |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | No |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | Not Available |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Body Cladding | - | No |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | No |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body Colour |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Colour |
| Front Overhang | - | 830 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 940 mm |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 16 deg | 16 deg |
| Departure Angle | 18 deg | 18 deg |
| Wading Depth | 300 mm | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Applicable | No |
| Underbody Protection | Not Available | No |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | 16 deg | 16 deg |
| Breakover Angle | Not Available | 16 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | 18 deg | 18 deg |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | 170 mm | 185 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | 170 mm | 185 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not Available | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Wading Depth Mm | 300 mm | - |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 16 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 14 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | No |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 175/65 R15 | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel Type | 15-inch Wheel Covers | Alloy |
| Front Brake Type | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Drum | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Not Available | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 15-inch Wheel Covers | 215/55 R17 |
| Brake Type Front | Disc | Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | Drum | Disc |
| Tyre Type | 175/65 R15 | Radial |
| Wheel Diameter | 15-inch Wheel Covers | 215/55 R17 |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | Not Available | Yes |
| Brakes | Disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | Standard | Yes |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | Not Available |
| Handbrake Type | Not Applicable | Electronic |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Not Available | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Not Available | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Wheel Material | 15-inch Wheel Covers | Alloy |
| Wheels | 15-inch Wheel Covers | Alloy |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 300 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 262 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Electronic |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 235 mm |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 107 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Spare Tyre | Not Available | Temporary Spare |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Temporary Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Electronic |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Electronic |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 215/55 R17 |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 10000 km / 12 months | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | Low | R3,800 per service |
| Battery Warranty | 24 Months | - |
| Maintenance Plan | 24 Months | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 10000 km / 12 months | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 24 Months | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 24 Months | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan | 24 Months | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Intervals | 10000 km / 12 months | 15000 |
| Alternator | - | Yes |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 4.5 l |
| First Service At | - | 15000 |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Yes |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 3 | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 3 | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Basic Warranty | 3 | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Warranty | 3 | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 3 Years | 5 Years / Unlimited km |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 122 g/km | 139 g/km |
| Start Stop System | Not Available | Yes |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Petrol | B7 Diesel |
| Particulate Filter | Not Available | DPF |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 5 | Euro 6 |
| Idle CO2 Output | 122 | 139 |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 122 | 139 |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | No |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | No |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | 4 |
| Noise Level | - | 67 dB |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | 14 l/100km | 12.5 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | 17 l/100km | 16.2 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | 18 l/100km | 19.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | 21 l/100km | 22.3 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | 22 | - |
| Spec | Amaze | Carens |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Top | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 289900 ZAR | 599995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | Current official retail price |
| Starting Price | 289900 | 599995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 289900 | 599995 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This Amaze and Carens comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: Amaze 26 vs Carens 39.
Efficiency index: Amaze 69 vs Carens 72.
Safety-equipment index: Amaze 50 vs Carens 93.
Practicality index: Amaze 56 vs Carens 56.
Ownership-cover index: Amaze 43 vs Carens 54.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
Amaze and Carens image comparison
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Honda Amaze
View 8 more Amaze images
KIA Carens
View 8 more Carens images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
Carens leads by 14 points
Carens has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Amaze remains close.
Evidence leader
62
/100
Lead
14
points
Data
96%
source coverage
62
#1
Evidence leader
Carens
96% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 93
Check
Performance 39
Performance
39
Efficiency
72
Safety
93
Practicality
56
Ownership
54
Leads by 14 points
48
#2
Amaze
86% source coverage
0 strong categories
Best at
Efficiency 69
Check
Performance 26
Performance
26
Efficiency
69
Safety
50
Practicality
56
Ownership
43
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
Carens +13
Efficiency
Carens +3
Safety
Carens +43
Practicality
Level
Ownership
Carens +11
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
Carens
Performance
39/100
Efficiency
72/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
56/100
Ownership
54/100
Amaze
Performance
26/100
Efficiency
69/100
Safety
50/100
Practicality
56/100
Ownership
43/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
KIA Carens
leads the specification evidence index with 62 pts
vs 48 pts for Amaze
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, Carens leads. However, Amaze may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
Amaze vs Carens questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.