Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC

Getting much more than just a mere facelift, the new Jazz has been completely revised from bumper to bumper, inside and out.

Honda’s supermini, the Jazz, has been revised, bumper to bumper writes Hannah Gordon

What is it? First launched in 2001 the Honda Jazz has been a familiar sight on our roads, the new updated 3rd generation promises more interior space and refinement. Available now with just one engine choice can this reliable little car carry on from where it left off?

Who is it aimed at? With the new Jazz Honda is trying to appeal to a larger audience. The styling and simplicity paired with an impressive technology package and a vibrant colour palette to chose from means this car should attract a younger crowd.

A new seven-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash features Honda’s new infotainment system

And the Styling? The Jazz shares some of its styling with the Honda HRV including the headlights. It still retains its upright posture almost MPV like in styling and this helps to make access in and out easier. The new styling gives the Jazz a sharper and more inviting look and everything above the SE range gets alloy wheels as standard.

Under the bonnet? Honda have kept things simple with just one engine choice available, a 1.3 litre petrol engine, naturally aspirated and producing just 102bhp, but this car isn’t designed to beat anyone at the traffic lights. Instead the engine is refined and pulls well through the gears, there is a six-speed manual and the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) automatic gearbox. The CVT gearbox is rather annoying though and I wouldn’t recommend choosing it over the manual option unless you really have to.

What about inside? The interior is extremely spacious and the MPV exterior styling helps to give a decent amount of headroom. Interior quality is good and the materials used feel hard wearing. The Magic Seat system offers versatility and extra space with the rear seats folding completely flat and going from a 354 litre boot space to a huge 1314 litres. This space is better than the Ford Fiesta and is only marginally beaten by the Nissan Note.

The Jazz is also crammed with safety features,

On the road? The Jazz is a nicely set up car that excels well with any type of driving conditions, the steering is direct and not too heavy whilst the engine doesn’t pull like a train it does give you a sense of knowing whats going to happen without a kick from a turbo. The suspension soaks up holes in the road and the cabin noise is fairly minimal. Although this car does seem to have a higher centre of gravity than its rivals body roll is unnoticeable and the Jazz is a pleasant car to drive, especially if you choose the manual option.

What about Safety? Honda’s are extremely well known for their safety and reliability and the new Jazz should be much the same, plenty of standard safety equipment is available in the higher spec options including Brake Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Warning. The Jazz has also received a full 5 star Euro NCAP rating.

What are my Options? All models are fitted as standard with features such as air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter and dusk sensing auto lights. Every grade also comes with Honda’s City-Brake Active to help avoid low-speed accidents.The mid-grade ES model adds front and rear parking sensors, electrically folding and heated door mirrors, 15” alloy wheels and the Honda Connect infotainment system. Honda’s Dynamic Safety Pack is also included. Those opting for the range topping EX model gain smart entry and start, automatic climate control and a rear parking camera.

Will it break the bank? Although a diesel or hybrid option isn’t offered the little 1.3 litre petrol does return decent figures. The best performing package is the Honda Jazz SE with the CVT gearbox which gives you a combined MPG of 61.4 (4.1 litres per 100) and CO2 emissions of just 106 g/km. All the range whether you go top spec, manual or automatic claim to return above 55mpg ( or 5 litres per 100)  and the highest tax band is just A4 or €200 per year.  There are also competitive PCP options that start from  €189 per month.

So the Verdict? The Honda Jazz has always been a very likable car, this 3rd generation shows a more stylish approach and the kit levels available are generous. Honda come with a superb reputation and it remains to be seen if the Jazz can have a more youthful appeal. It is extremely spacious, well put together and refined to drive, whilst the CVT gearbox is forgettable the six-speed manual is the first choice. This is a car with an ‘all in good time’ attitude, but whilst the engine isn’t particularly punchy it does offer cheap tax and good MPG figures. Prices ( see full listing below) are a bit on the steep side starting at €17,395 for a basic manual, and rocketing up to €21,900 for the EX CVT Auto but if offers a lot for the money and miles of worry free driving.

Why you will buy one? Spacious, Refined, Well build

Why you won’t? Expensive, Automatic gearbox

Rivals

Mazda2
Opel Corsa
Skoda Fabia
Seat Ibiza
 

Honda Jazz 1.3 i-VTEC
 
Engine: 1318cc
Max speed:   182 km/h
0-100 km/h:   11.5 seconds

Emissions:   106-120 g/km
Model price range: from €17,395
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP : 5
Fuel type:  Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 4.6 litres per 100 km  / 61.4 mpg
Boot Capacity Seats up: 354 litres
Length:  3995 mm
Width: 1694 mm
Height: 1550 mm

For more information on the new Jazz  check out Honda.ie, the Honda Ireland Facebook page or follow them on twitter here

Hannah Gordon

15th April, 2016