Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Which One Should You Buy?

If you're looking for a solid, top-spec hatchback that won't cost an arm and a leg, then the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and the Honda Jazz are two very promising contenders. They're both practical, stylish, and reliable cars. But if you were to buy only one second hand model out of the two, which one should you go for? In this blog, we'll do a detailed comparison of the two cars to help you make the right buying decision.

1. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Design and Road Presence

Baleno

The design of the Baleno is smooth, curvy, and modern, with a premium feel that remains consistent even on older models, particularly those from the post-2019 Baleno facelift. It's youthful in its presence, and you'll find plenty of them around on the road, which means it's popular, and rightly so.

Jazz

The Jazz, on the other hand, has a boxier, mature appearance. It is solid and clean, but not flashy. You can see the build quality of Honda right away; it is all tightly put together and well assembled.

Verdict: If a sporty appearance is what you're after, the Baleno wins. If you want subtle looks with a rock-solid build, then the Jazz is what you’re looking for. 

2. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Interior Quality and Space

Baleno

Step inside a used Baleno and you're welcomed by a clean, contemporary dashboard layout with a floating touchscreen (available from 2017 onwards in higher trims). The plastic quality is acceptable for its segment, though not particularly premium. Where the Baleno scores is overall cabin width, which makes it comfortable for three adults in the back. Rear legroom is decent, and the 339-litre boot handles most luggage needs with ease.

Jazz

The Honda Jazz leans more towards a practical and versatile layout. While the dashboard design isn’t as flashy, the fit-and-finish feels more solid and long-lasting. The highlight is its Magic Seats (available in older VX trims), which allow you to fold, flip, and expand the space in creative ways, making them ideal for carrying tall or bulky items. The cabin feels airier, and thanks to its taller build, the headroom and legroom surpass those of the Baleno. Boot space is a generous 354 litres, and with the seats folded down, it expands to over 1,000 litres.

Verdict: Jazz wins this round with much greater space in the boot and the back, and greater flexibility due to magic seats.

3. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Engine and Performance

Let's talk about real-world performance. You'll most likely find petrol variants when shopping for used cars, as the diesel Jazz has been discontinued, and the diesel Baleno is rare in the used market.

So, here are some highlights of the engines of both the cars:

Baleno Petrol

• 1.2L, 4-cylinder engine (83 bhp / 113 Nm)
• Available with Manual & CVT
• Peppy in the city, smooth on highways
• Mileage: 18–21 km/l

Jazz Petrol

• 1.2L, 4-cylinder engine (90 bhp / 110 Nm)
• Available with Manual & CVT
• Slightly more refined and quieter
• Mileage: 16–18 km/l

Although the two engines are nice and deliver adequate performance, the Baleno is lighter and more responsive to drive, owing to its superior kerb weight.

Verdict: The Baleno takes it hands down in terms of performance and mileage. But in terms of refinement and comfort, the Jazz holds its place.

4. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Ride and Handling

Baleno

The Baleno has a soft suspension that is adequate for Indian roads but lacks confidence when cornering at high speeds. So, it's mostly for city drives.

Jazz

Jazz offers a more planted, more stable drive. The suspension is slightly stiffer but offers you great confidence when driving on the highways and has high-speed stability.

Verdict: If you do more high-speed highway runs, choose the Jazz. If you're a city dweller, you'd be a happy customer with Baleno.

5. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Features and Technology

Features are one of the most important aspects to consider when buying a used car. So, here are the most popular variants of both cars in the used car segment:

Baleno (Zeta/Alpha):

• Touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• LED DRLs, projector headlamps
• Reverse camera, keyless entry, push-button start
• Auto climate control

Jazz (VX/CVT variants):

• Touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
• Rear camera, paddle shifters (CVT)
• Cruise control (only in newer models)
• Magic Seats (in some older top trims)
• Auto AC

Verdict: Both are feature-rich, but Baleno's headlamps and infotainment system are more modern. Jazz offers a one-of-a-kind practicality with Magic Seats, if available.

6. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Maintenance & Running Costs

Baleno

Since it's a Maruti, the spares are cheap, and service is never an issue, even in small cities. Annual maintenance is reasonably affordable and costs around ₹5,000–₹7,000, depending on usage and the service centre.

Jazz

The spares are slightly more expensive for Honda. Also, Honda has fewer service centres than Maruti. Annual maintenance will cost you between ₹7,000 and ₹10,000.

Verdict: Baleno wins here with cheaper ownership costs and a wider service network.

7. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Resale Value and Availability in the Used Market

Baleno

As one of the best-selling premium hatchbacks in India, second hand Balenos are easily available in all trims and model years. Resale value is high, particularly for well-maintained models.

Jazz

You won't find many Jazz models on the second hand market, and thus, the resale value could be questionable. Expect older or higher-mileage models, as Jazz has not been a huge seller like the Baleno.

Verdict: Baleno is more accessible to buy and sell in the second hand market.

8. Second hand Baleno vs Second hand Jazz: Which One Should You Buy?

Let's calculate it in a table for easy understanding:

Purchase a used Baleno if:

• You want low running and maintenance expenses
• You mostly drive in the city
• You want a peppier engine and better mileage
• You want greater choices and variants in the used market

Purchase a used Jazz if:

• You want space, practicality, and cabin comfort
• You drive a lot on highways
• You want a solid and well-built car
• You are more performance-oriented

Conclusion

For those who want a lot of space, flexibility, and a better hold in highways, a used Honda Jazz remains a great choice, mainly in VX or ZX configurations with Magic Seats. However, if you care about spending less on fuel, having many service centres, and a good chance of reselling, a used Maruti Suzuki Baleno is your best option.

Your ultimate decision should depend on how you prefer to drive, your budget, and whether you value practicality or peace of mind as an owner. Regardless of your choice, you’re picking from two of the strongest hatchbacks India has produced in the last decade.