Honda Jazz, the cars it rivals

Honda cars have been revered not only in Malaysia but across global markets for their appealing looks, top-notch quality, and an enriching feature list. Its B-segment hatchback, Jazz is known for its typical Japanese looks, uncompromised comfort, and spacious interior. The model is sold under the same moniker in several markets including Malaysia, where it has carved a niche space despite stiff competition. Rolling out facelifts/ new-gen versions of existing models every two or three years has become a common tradition, and Honda Jazz is the next model to receive one. Changes on the 4-generation Honda Jazz are expected on the styling front, both inside out along with the addition of new equipment. The prototype of the new-gen Jazz was unveiled at the last year’s Tokyo Motor Show at Honda’s home turf.

As for the production version, it is underway and could barge in sometime this year. Currently, the Honda Jazz is available in three petrol and a single hybrid variant with a CVT and a dual-clutch transmission. The hatchback will continue its rivalry with other B-segment hatchbacks including Kia Rio, Perodua Myvi, Mazda 2 and Toyota Yaris upon its arrival. Even though there is still time before we know how the new Jazz will change over the current version, here is looking at its competitors and how they stack up against the existing model.

Honda Jazz

It is important to know what Jazz has on offer before we begin with other models. On the outside, the LED headlamps along with LED DRLs style up the Japanese car. Akin to the front, it also comes with LED units at the rear. Moving to the interior, it is spacious and packs a whole bunch of comfort and connectivity goodies from Honda including a 7-inch display audio system, 7-9 cup-holders (based on variant), electrostatic touch panel, etc.

While there is ample room for occupants at both ends, the 399-litre of cargo volume offers a large space for storing luggage. As for the Honda Jazz specs sheet, there are two engines including Honda’s 120 PS, 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol and 137 PS, 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel engines that are paired to a CVT gearbox. The single hybrid variant comes with a hybrid set-up and a seven-speed dual-clutch tranny for transmitting power to the wheels. Coming to the Honda Jazz price in Malaysia, it falls in the range of RM 70, 242 and 87, 707.

Kia Rio

Kia is known for its contemporary designs, and a comprehensive feature kit, which makes Kia cars quite popular across markets. The B segment hatchback comes in a single SX variant with a solo 1.4-litre DOHC, MPI engine with 109 PS and 137 Nm torque. This motor works in conjunction with a 4-speed automatic gearbox and promises decent handling within city roads and highways.

Speaking of styling, the face features Kia’s quintessential ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, projector headlamps, and LED daytime running lights. Wing mirrors at the side get electric folding function and also feature LED turn signals. Front fog lamps and sunroof are also part of the parcel. The premium interior packs a plethora of features including Arkamys audio system with six speakers, automatic air conditioner, push start and engine stop button, 60:40 folding rear seats, etc. Kia has armed Rio specs sheet with a raft of safety tech including ABS with EBD, brake assist, vehicle stability control, electronic stability control, ISOFIX child anchor, etc. All this and a lot more can be yours at a price point of RM 79,888.

Perodua Myvi

The Myvi has been one of the highest-selling cars in Malaysia. A slightly updated version of the petite hatchback was launched last year, featuring subtle cosmetic tweaks. Perodua Myvi line-up comprises five variants, with a single manual option on the base variant, while the remaining get an automatic tranny.

Under the skin, it gets two engines-95 PS, 1.3-litre and 104 PS, 1.5-litre unit. It is built on the company’s ‘function over form’ design theme, ensuring a comfortable space for the occupants inside, though visually it looks mundane. Key elements, such as LED headlamps, fog lamps with chrome accents, chrome door handles, machined alloy wheels, etc. style the exterior.

On the inside, it packs mounted controls for audio, Bluetooth, a touchscreen infotainment system, driver seat height adjuster, etc. As for safety suite, it consists of four airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, vehicle stability control, ISOFIX mounts and hill start assist among others. The Myvi line-up falls in the price vicinity of RM 42,790 to RM 54,090.

Mazda 2 Hatchback

Another model that comes from Jazz’s native market is Mazda 2 Hatchback. The curvy design gives it an athletic look, though sharp curves on the body incorporate aggression. At the face, there is a large open-mouth grille with a distinctive chrome accent, eye-brow shaped headlamps bereft of daytime running lamps. The fog lamps are fitted in wedge-like housing on the front bumper and diamond-cut alloys ornate the flanks.

On the inside, it is layered with climate control, pop-out style touchscreen infotainment unit with six speakers, paddle shifters, ambient lighting, etc. In terms of comfort, it can fit two full-size adults only, as the shoulder space is tight at the back. Under the skin, there is a 114 bhp, 1.5-litre petrol engine good for 148 Nm torque, which is paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox. Speaking of safety kit, it consists of ABS with EBD and brake assist, dynamic stability control, traction control system, hill launch assist and emergency stop signal among others. Available with just two variants, the Mazda 2 hatchback is priced from RM 76,670 to RM 94, 670.

Toyota Yaris

Another model that poses threat to Honda Jazz is the Yaris hatchback from its Japanese counterpart, Toyota. Known for easy handling, the Yaris draws power from a 1.5-litre unit, calibrated to put out 107 PS along with 140 Nm torque, and is supported by a CVT gearbox.

In terms of styling, it sports a quirky design with key elements such as projector headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, integrated spoiler at the front, sporty side skirts, and 15-inch alloys lending a sporty appearance. The sound-proofing measures on the inside further reduce the in-cabin NVH levels and offer a comfortable ride. As for the equipment list, it benefits from a 6.8-inch touchscreen multimedia system with six speakers, automatic climate control, surround-view monitor & video recorder, etc.

Speaking of safety, features such as seven airbags, vehicle stability control, ABS with EBD and brake assist are standard, while blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available with higher grades. The pricing for the Yaris line-up, which comes in three variants, begins from RM 70,888 and goes up to RM 83,888.

It remains to be seen if the new Jazz will outshine its rivals and emerge a clear winner in the segment. While Honda has launched the fourth-generation Jazz in Japan, Malaysia still awaits its launch which could happen in the coming months.

Also Read: Honda Malaysia increases price of Jazz Hybrid and City Hybrid