Spec Comparison: Maruti Suzuki Baleno vs Honda Jazz

Maruti Suzuki has updated the Baleno for the first time since its introduction back in 2015. The mid-life update to the premium hatchback includes a tweaked fascia and an updated cabin. And the same changes were done to the Honda Jazz last year. So here is how both these B+segment hatchbacks compare on paper in our spec comparison. 

Exterior and Styling:

The Baleno received a blink-and-miss update which includes a revised front bumper including fog lamps, slight changes to headlight signature, and a redesigned grille. Also included in the update are new alloy wheels and in two new colours options – Phoenix Red and Magma Grey. The Baleno is a solid looking car already and has been the highest selling one in its segment. The update was merely a refresher for its looks. 

The changes made to the Honda Jazz last year weren’t substantial either. The Japanese hatch received a new “signature LED wing” tail light in the top-spec trim. It now has chrome door handles with a smart button (CVT/diesel) and two new exterior colours called Radiant Red and Lunar Silver. Apart from that, there weren’t any changes made to the new Jazz. And the Jazz still misses out on LED day-time running lights. 

Interior and Features:

The most prominent interior changes in the Baleno comprise of the new infotainment system, black and blue interiors and a new design for climate control/AC panel. The new infotainment system is called the Smart Play and it debuted with the latest generation Wagon R. The system provides live traffic updates, weather updates and hotel locations as well. 

Features-wise, the top-of-the-line petrol and diesel models for both these cars carry similar equipment list as standard. This list includes climate control, smartphone connectivity with CarPlay and Android Auto, push start/stop, parking sensors, chrome inserts around the cabin and features like driver’s seat height adjustment. With the update, Jazz has dropped the ‘magic seat’ package which was its USP, but it still offers best-in-class leg room. 

Engine and Gearbox:

Engine options for the Baleno are carried over from the outgoing models without any changes whatsoever. So there is the standard 1.2-litre K-series petrol mill producing 84bhp and 140Nm. And the diesel is a 1.3-litre engine producing 75bhp and 190Nm. Both engines get a five-speed manual as standard while the petrol variant also gets the option of CVT in the Zeta, Delta and Alpha variants.  

The updated Jazz has no mechanical changes to go with the update either. The 1.5-litre i-DTEC diesel with 98bhp and 200Nm is available with a six-speed manual transmission. The petrol engine will be a 1.2-litre i-VTEC producing 90bhp and 110Nm, mated to either a five-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission with paddle shifters.