The Jazz's 1.2L SOHC 16v iVtec engine is rated at 89 BHP (most power of a 1.2 in the country). The car is unbelievably refined at idle; it’s actually hard to tell if the engine is running at all. The smooth nature extends to when on the move too, though the Vtec gets a little throaty (enthusiasts will appreciate, others won’t) when nearing the redline. The 1.2’s low end torque is strictly average (torque rating of 110NM @ 4,800 rpms), much like the other new age 1.2's (Ritz, Kappa etc.); it needs to be worked to perform. The motor shows an eagerness to revv and driveability is decent. Compared to chief competitor i20, the Jazz superior power to weight shows (84 BHP / Tonne versus 74 for the i20) in its performance. Below a 120 kph, the Jazz doesn’t feel under-powered at all. Above 130 kph though, progress is slow with the li’l 1.2 working hard against wind forces. At 110 kph, the rpm needle is at 3,500 rpm. At 120, it’s at 4,000 rpms. This engine is no highway burner and is most suited to the city itself. In fact, the engine characteristics feel very NHC like (previous gen Honda City) in more ways than one. ARAI certifies the fuel efficiency at 16.1 (Ritz certification was 17.7), expect city FE to be respectable. The super light clutch & steering make it a boon within the city. Gear shift quality is positive.
The Jazz' ride quality is sufficiently compliant over most road surfaces, but you can feel the stiffness of the suspension. This is all the more evident at lower speeds. Big potholes will see it crashing through. The body roll is controlled (though noticeable) while straight line stability is good (yet nowhere Fabia-like). Don’t expect to please the enthusiast in you. The electric power steering is light, playstation-like & great within the city. However, as the speedometer climbs up, it becomes vague & lifeless (much like the previous-gen Honda City). A 15 inch wheel size is standard (175/65 R15 tyres). A ground clearance of (only) 160mm raises concerns. While it didn’t scrape on our Goan drive with 3 onboard, I have my reservations. The ABS + EBD assisted brakes (14” disc at the front) were fantastic to use. In a nutshell, the Jazz is an excellent city car. This is the definitive premium hatch and competition's pretty much between the Jazz & the i20 (Skoda Fabia is not even in contention here).
Pricing: Honda's pricing has been a shocker and, at 6.98 lakhs (ex showroom Delhi) doesn't offer value. The difference between the top-end Jazz and the entry level City is a mere 48,000 (City 1.5 E MT @ 7.81 lakhs). The Jazz's pricetag actually makes the Hyundai i20 seem like VFM. Even the full blown i20 Asta (O) is a whopping 1.2 lakhs cheaper (ex showroom Delhi), and that's with FAR superior equipment levels (6 airbags et al). Can a clever car & the "H" badge do some magic in the marketplace? Only time will tell.
