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Our Score:
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Styling & Design
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Score:
7/10
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The original Jazz was cleverly packaged but it was a little gawky from some angles as it tried to adhere to the traditional two-box shape somewhat. The new models embraces its mono-box configuration and looks all the better for it. Shame the upright tail makes it so van-like in profile.
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Engine Spec
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Score:
8/10
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Only two engine are offered in the Jazz and neither are diesel oddly. Both the 90hp 1.2 and 100hp 1.4 need to be revved to get the most from them but they're reasonably smooth and willing when pushed. Both produce low levels of CO2 meaning Band B tax and VRT, too.
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Performance
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Score:
7/10
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The 1.2 punches way above its weight in terms of pep whereas the 1.4 is about average in terms of on-the-move pep and off-the-line acceleration. No fast models, sadly.
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Ride & Handling
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Score:
8/10
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Compared to the old Jazz, the 2008 version offers much improved ride quality and sharper handling, with more grip, more feel and an even sweeter gearbox. It's really a lot of fun to drive, particularly as you have to wring every ounce of performance from the engines.
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Interior & Ergonomics
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Score:
8/10
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There's a hint of Civic wackiness about the Jazz but it makes a lot more sense than the bigger car and isn't as fussy as the button-soaked Accord either. Ergonomically, it's near perfect although some minor switchgear is poorly sited and the steering doesn't adjust on 1.2-litre models.
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Space & Practicality
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Score:
10/10
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As superminis go, it gets no more practical. Apart from huge cabin space and ample rear space, the rear seats fold completely flat or the bases can be lifted to stand tall objects in the rear. The doors open wide, the cabin is full of storage nooks and the boot boasts an adjustable floor.
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Safety
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Score:
8/10
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The Civic has all the supermini basics including ISOFIX and six airbags, and even fits ESC on the 1.4-litre models. Shame it's not on all versions. There's no knee airbag option either. No NCAP test yet but we're expecting great things, particularly in terms of pedestrian protection.
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Value & Running Costs
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Score:
7/10
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The Jazz is not cheap by supermini standards - it's about a grand more than rivals with less ritzy spec (although it counters with more airbags and that brilliant rear seat arrangement. That said, its Band B engines mean it is cheap to run and resale for this model should be solid.
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Quality & Refinement
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Score:
8/10 |
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In typical Honda fashion, the Jazz feels like it will last forever although the plastics aren't particularly soft touch or upmarket. The ride quality is above the class average while refinement is much improved over the outgoing models as well.
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Equipment
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Score:
7/10
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Basic models get electric windows & mirrors, six airbags but no rear stereo speakers. The SE-S adds A/C, 15-inch alloys for €1k more. The 1.4 SE-S adds ESC, retractable mirrors, rear power windows & an adjustable steering wheel? EX is loaded - climate, glass roof, foglights, auto lights & cruise.
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Bad
Grim base model
high price
frumpy
Good
Roomy
economical
indestructible
clever
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