Having sampled the Honda City Hatchback recently – which no doubt is a superb product – we felt a lingering feeling, that though better, it has lost some of the charm of the preceding Honda Jazz (GK) delivered in spades.

For one beyond, its cutesy looks, the GK Jazz was a giant killer in terms of space and packaging, managing to rival the practicality and refinement standards of much larger cars, it also featured a punchy powertrain and was fun to drive.

Also read: Review: 2022 Honda City Hatchback V - Capable all-rounder, but why do we miss the Jazz?

Alas, Malaysia does not receive the latest generation, but it’s good to know that you can still pick up a used GK Jazz for the price of a new Perodua Myvi today, here’s what you need to know.

The GK Honda Jazz range in Malaysia

When it was launched in 2014, the GK Honda Jazz came in three variants, S, E and V. These are mostly equipment differences, but there was only one powertrain option, the 120 PS, 145 Nm 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder engine with a CVT-type automatic. 

In 2017, the facelifted Jazz received regular cosmetic and equipment upgrades and an additional Sport Hybrid i-DCD variant.

The hybrid Jazz came with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with an integrated electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery that delivered 137 PS and 170 Nm combined.

The facelifted GK Jazz range retained the S, E variants, with the Sport Hybrid slotting in just below the V variant.  

The variant to buy and current market prices

Prices of the GK Jazz range between RM 40k for early 2014 and 2015 units and rise to approximately RM 80k for the newer 2019 – 2020 units.

Thus, choices are aplenty across a rather wide price range. The 1.5 Hybrid variant typically ranges between RM 50k and RM 70k.

Used prices of the GK Jazz units actually trade marginally higher than GM6 City which sold alongside. 

Purchasing the right GK Jazz for you requires choosing between naturally aspirated or hybrid 1.5-litre powertrains.

The more complex Sport Hybrid offers better fuel economy, power, and driving performance, but as with any hybrid, there is a cost to be considered if a battery or inverter replacement is needed down the line. 

Like the GM6 City, higher mileage cars need not be a deterrent factor – as parts and repairs are easily accessible, but take your time in sourcing a well-maintained vehicle with a comprehensive service history. 

Alternatively, check out these immaculate examples on Carsome, which are offered with an extended warranty and cash discounts for a limited time only.

Maintenance and common problems?

With robust powertrains and great build quality, the Jazz has a proven reputation for reliability, thus with proper maintenance, they're known to perform well for years. 

Also read: Used Honda Civic FB for under RM 65k Newer and better than the Civic FD, how much to maintain and repair?

Here’s a simplified table of the basic maintenance schedule of a GK Jazz:

Also read: How to make your GM6 Honda City drive better... and harder

Service costs for the GK Jazz are reasonable, with the only difference between the naturally-aspirated and hybrid variants being the transmission service. The 7DCT actually requires less maintenance and intervals are four times as long. 

Drivetrain and suspension components tend to show signs of wear at around the 120k km mark. The following are a few issues to take note of:

Like the GK Jazz, engine oil leaks on the engine sparingly occur at the engine and transmission oil sumps, and valve cover gasket. However, more often than not, this is caused by a lack and/or improper maintenance. 

Also read: 2021 Toyota Yaris vs Honda Jazz - Ageing Jazz still worth buying?

That said, prospective buyers are advised to remove the engine and transmission underbody cover (which hides these issues) and properly inspect the corresponding area.

As for the Jazz Hybrid, batteries are offered with an 8-year warranty and cost about RM 5,500 to replace. However, all Jazz Hybrids are barely 5 years old, and therefore still benefit from their manufacturer warranties. 

Also read: Toyota Vios vs Honda City: Which one has better resale value?

Conclusion 

Besides being a practical and well-designed hatchback, the GK Jazz offers additional appeal due to the fact it's the last Jazz model to be offered in Malaysia. 

The GK Jazz makes a compelling option for first-time car buyers or even enthusiast types who want the prestige and driving experience of a Honda over a new domestic model such as the Myvi or Iriz. 

As always, take your time in looking for a well-maintained example, that features a comprehensive history, or, enjoy total peace of mind and leave it to the experts at Carsome, when finding your next dream car.