Admit it, everyone was a little bit disappointed upon finding out that the all-new Honda Jazz won' make it to Malaysia. The nameplate, after all, has been a firm favourite with Malaysian buyers.

All is not lost however, because you can still pick up a used GK-generation Honda Jazz for not a lot of money. In my books, it's still a brilliant little B-segment hatchback. Here's what you need to know if you're in the market for one.

Which variant should you plump for?

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, a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder engine (120 PS, 145 Nm) with a CVT-type transmission. 

In 2017, the facelifted Jazz received the regular cosmetic and equipment upgrades, along with 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 integrated electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery (137 PS, 170 Nm combined).

Other than the additional Sport Hybrid i-DCD variant, the facelift carried the same S, E, and V line up. Today, you can pick a 2015 model from RM 45k to RM 52k, spec and condition dependent. You can also still buy one new, as listed on Honda Malaysia's website (at the time of writing).

My pick of the bunch is the facelifted Sport Hybrid i-DCD variant, because it has such a sweet and zingy powertrain that transforms the driving experience, while retaining what makes the Honda Jazz so loved in the first place.

Also read: Used vs new: For RM 60k or less, Honda Jazz (GK) or Perodua Myvi?

What am I getting with a Honda Jazz GK?

For starters, your money buys you a brilliantly executed interior. Regardless of variant, the Honda Jazz has flawless ergomonics, solid build quality and clever solutions. All this, in a B-segment hatchback. It has no right to have this much space. 

The Jazz's Ultra Seats is part of the reason why the Honda Jazz is so spacious and versatile. It gives the Jazz multiple storage configurations to play with. If the 363 litres (Hybrid is 314 litres) boot space isn't enough, the Ultra Seats offers even more space to play with. 

Spec and safety wise, it's better to look at the E, V or hybrid variant, as the S fares quite poorly in this respect. 

How does it drive?

Okay, a Honda Jazz GK is not gonna set your hair on fire or anything like that behind the wheel. What it does best is to cosset you, with a pretty compliant ride, fairly accurate steering and a smooth CVT transmission. And that's exactly what you want in day-to-day driving.

However, the Jazz Sport Hybrid i-DCD takes this up a notch. Because of its hybrid powertrain, the driving experience is more lively, with a punch that the regular 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine cannot match. Don't believe me? Watch the video.

Pair this with the quick-shifting and responsive 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the hybrid Jazz is quite a sporty and satisfying driving experience. Yet, it is no harder to live with than the regular Jazz variants, being just as practical and easy to drive. 

How much to maintain and own one?

When new, Honda Jazz models came with a five year/unlimited mileage warranty. But of course, you'd be on your own if you purchase a used unit that is out of the warranty range. Do keep that in mind. 

In any case, here are some maintenance costs to keep in mind when owning a Honda Jazz GK.

As you can see, clearly it doesn't cost an arm and a leg to maintain a Honda Jazz, regardless of variant. What is surprising is that tyre prices for 175/65 R15 and 185/55 R16 sizes cost the same (no, really). This is, of course, comparing the exact same tyre model.

Also read: 2020 Honda City – Less than RM 3,900 to service it over 5 years/100,000 km

What are the common problems?

Having asked feedback from friends who have owned a Honda Jazz, the general feedback is that they've not encountered anything major or remotely concerning about their cars. It's reliable, fuel-efficient and easy to maintain.

This includes the i-DCD Hybrid powertrain as well, which has proven critics wrong. Many owners have little to no faults to find with the ownership experience. Battery replacement costs? Read on here.

Kent Goh, owner of XD Autowerkz, is himself an owner of a Honda Jazz GK. He has also added that this model has no major issues nor complaints, only ever having to deal with slightly squealy brakes.

"Get all the periodic maintenance done, and there really is nothing much to worry about," Kent continued. A real-world account from a workshop owner himself, who happens to run a Honda Jazz GK.

Also read: Used hybrids are really cheap, so should you buy a used Toyota Prius, Camry Hybrid or Honda Insight?

Conclusion

For many years, the Honda Jazz nameplate has captured Malaysian hearts with its infectious charm, easy-to-live-with character, and clever packaging. The all-new Honda City Hatchback will do well to continue that legacy. 

But, as the Honda Jazz GK shows, there is still plenty of life in a used unit. Heck, if I didn't already have a Honda HR-V, a used GK-generation Jazz would be pretty much at the top of my list. It is a car that you buy with a bit of your heart, and a bit of your head.