2018 Honda Jazz: Competition Check

Honda has launched the facelifted version of their premium hatchback, the Jazz. Beginning from Rs 7.35 lakhs, the new Jazz has done away with its entry-level petrol trims, reiterating its stand as a premium brand. Since it is a mid-life refresh, the car and the mechanicals remain the same and it gets some additional features and equipment.

Being a premium hatchback, the Jazz goes up against stiff competition offered by Maruti Suzuki Baleno, the Hyundai Elite i20 and the Volkswagen Polo. Here is how it fares.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno

The Baleno is the highest selling premium hatch in the country and has become a clear favourite thanks to the Maruti brand and its frugal ways. Also, LED DRLs, which the Jazz still misses out on, gives it an edge thanks to buyer preferences. Having said that, the Honda Jazz is an all-rounder with its class-leading powerful petrol and diesel engines and the large amount of space it offers inside. Also, thanks to its weight, it does offer a more planted ride. 

Hyundai Elite i20

The Elite i20 is the pioneer of the premium hatch segment in India and was ruling the segment before the advent of the Baleno. Amongst the competition, it is certainly one of the best looking cars with its low-slung stature and fluidic design. The Jazz trumps the Elite i20 in terms of cabin space and boot-space. The i20 leads on the safety front with the six-airbags for the top-trim and is also better loaded with features than the Honda.

Volkswagen Polo

The Volkswagen Polo is an old-school hatch in this modern world of striking design and long list of features. It is one of the better handlers in the segment and gets the most powerful petrol and diesel engines. The features list is similar to modern cars like the Jazz but the understated design and interior is dated. When compared, the Jazz gets more features, better cabin space and a petrol engine that feels more refined than the 1.0-litre turbo petrol of the VW.