Honda Jazz

The Honda Jazz is a hatchback that puts space and practicality above all else. 2018’s mild refresh saw a rejig of the features and equipment list, though the engine-gearbox options remain unchanged from before. On offer are petrol-manual, a petrol-CVT auto and a diesel manual.

The Honda Jazz is a hatchback that puts space and practicality above all else. 2018’s mild refresh saw a rejig of the...

The Honda Jazz is a hatchback that puts space and practicality above all else. 2018’s mild refresh saw a rejig of the features and equipment list, though the engine-gearbox options remain unchanged from before. On offer are petrol-manual, a petrol-CVT auto and a diesel manual.

The Jazz’s quasi-MPV shape might not be to all tastes but it does allow for an incredibly roomy cabin. There’s enough space for five large adults to sit comfortably and even the boot is large. Still, things are not perfect on the inside. The thick A-pillars create a substantial blind spot and the small, fixed rear headrests are simply inadequate.
The Jazz’s 90hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine doesn’t feel lively at low speeds but the 5-speed manual gearbox is nice-to-use and there’s fun to be had extending the engine. The CVT-equipped petrol-auto is nicer still and the standard-fit paddleshifters enhance the experience. You’ll have to contend with high noise levels on the 100hp, 1.5-litre diesel. The diesel engine does impress for its linear power delivery and economy, though. The Jazz feels sure-footed at all speeds and ride comfort is good for this class of car.

The Jazz’s quasi-MPV shape might not be to all tastes but it does allow for an incredibly roomy cabin. There’s enough...

The Jazz’s quasi-MPV shape might not be to all tastes but it does allow for an incredibly roomy cabin. There’s enough space for five large adults to sit comfortably and even the boot is large. Still, things are not perfect on the inside. The thick A-pillars create a substantial blind spot and the small, fixed rear headrests are simply inadequate.
The Jazz’s 90hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine doesn’t feel lively at low speeds but the 5-speed manual gearbox is nice-to-use and there’s fun to be had extending the engine. The CVT-equipped petrol-auto is nicer still and the standard-fit paddleshifters enhance the experience. You’ll have to contend with high noise levels on the 100hp, 1.5-litre diesel. The diesel engine does impress for its linear power delivery and economy, though. The Jazz feels sure-footed at all speeds and ride comfort is good for this class of car.

First things first, the Jazz is no longer available with the unique and versatile ‘magic’ seats at the back. And that’s a bit of a shame. On the positive side, top-spec Jazz’s get Honda’s latest touchscreen infotainment system that’s bundled with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Of the engine-gearbox options, it’s the petrol-CVT auto that is our pick. The petrol-manual is a good value choice while the pricey diesel is advisable only for buyers who cover large distances frequently. All said, the petrol-CVT auto in VX trim is a bit of a stretch but the one we’d buy.

First things first, the Jazz is no longer available with the unique and versatile ‘magic’ seats at the back. And that...

First things first, the Jazz is no longer available with the unique and versatile ‘magic’ seats at the back. And that’s a bit of a shame. On the positive side, top-spec Jazz’s get Honda’s latest touchscreen infotainment system that’s bundled with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Of the engine-gearbox options, it’s the petrol-CVT auto that is our pick. The petrol-manual is a good value choice while the pricey diesel is advisable only for buyers who cover large distances frequently. All said, the petrol-CVT auto in VX trim is a bit of a stretch but the one we’d buy.