Just did a test drive on the new Jazz yesterday and here’s what I felt regarding the all new Jazz.
EXTERIOR:
The dimensions are similar to the old version although it is slightly longer by 5.5 cm. The Jazz is based on the Honda city. When viewed from the front and back, the new design makes the car look more like an MPV than a hatch back. Personally, I like the look of the elite i20 more. The top end VX model has a big rear spoiler which gives it a sporty look and Honda has dialed back a bit on the chrome.It also has electrically foldable mirrors with integrated turn signals. I did not find any uneven panel gaps and the white paint and build quality also looked good. The only negative point I saw was that the 15 inch wheels look small compared to the overall size of the car.
INTERIOR:
The lower variants get beige colored interiors while the top end VX gets all black interior.The interior plastics and overall finish is good. There are no exposed wires or any other signs of cost cutting.The seats are comfortable and there is more than enough head room and leg room.The ac was powerful enough and I didn’t find the car heating up even after being stuck in a traffic jam under the hot sun for around 15 minutes. The Driver arm rest is missing.There are a lot of small storage places and bottle holders located throughout the cabin. The speedo console on the jazz is identical to the display on the honda city but without the blue, back lit rings around the dials. The jazz also doesn’t have engine start/stop button on any variant.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
The 1.5ltr, 4 cylinder diesel makes 100BHP and comes with a 6 speed manual transmission. The diesel engine isn’t silent at all.Throttle response is good and there is no turbo lag in the diesel engine. The engine has been tuned for practicality and for fewer gear changes in heavy stop-go traffic. The Jazz diesel has an ARAI rating of 27.3 kmpl, so that is very attractive to new buyers. Ride quality at high speeds is good and it manages to absorb most bumps and pot holes. The car felt stable at 110kmph(wasn’t able to go higher due to traffic) and feels well planted on the highway. The handling is good but doesn’t feel that convincing when going fast through corners.
VERDICT
Overall I am happy with the jazz. It has a sharp and edgy look along with the most spacious interior of any Indian hatch. The ride, handling and performance is also good. Where I felt the car is lacking is the diesel engine is a bit loud and the on-road price difference of about 1.4 lacs between the petrol and diesel version is shocking. Feature wise also, it cant compete with the elite i20, which I felt is its closest competitor.For me, the price of 9.2 lacs on road for a hatchback is too much. For that amount, the more sensible amongst us would opt for a used 1 year old ecosport. If you are intent on a hatchback, pick the i20 please.