Honda Jazz Review 2021
First released in 2002, the Honda Jazz has always stood out for its mix of practicality, reliability, and low running costs. Now in its fourth generation, the Jazz was refreshed in 2020 to take the limelight from rivals such as the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Polo.
Our Honda Jazz review covers:
- Boxy, MPV-like exterior for increased interior space
- Practical, class-leading interior trimmed with soft-touch materials
- 304-litre boot with magic rear seats
- Frugal 1.5-litre e:HEV petrol engine with hybrid technology
- Three grades to choose from, including SE, SR and EX
With its boxy, MPV-like shape, the Honda Jazz may lack the fun factor of some of its rivals, but it is one of the most spacious cars in its class. By reducing the roofline by 10mm and slimming down the A-pillars, the latest Jazz boasts a sleeker silhouette, with the option to personalise the exterior with Honda's new 'Fun' packs.
Inside, the Jazz excels in terms of space and practicality. There's a huge amount of head and legroom in the front and back for adults. There's also plenty of storage compartments, including large door pockets, two small gloveboxes (one directly below the other), a cubby underneath the centre armrest and a tray below the air-conditioning controls.
At 304 litres, the Jazz's boot is big enough to carry the essentials but doesn't quite match up to the Ford Fiesta (at 311 litres) and the Renault Clio (at 391 litres) for load space. Its clever magic rear seats make up for this, however, allowing the base to be flipped up or for the backs to be folded down flat, expanding the load volume to a van-like 1,205-litres.
Inside, the Jazz has a modern cabin trimmed with soft-touch materials. The dashboard is simple and functional, with a minimalist two-spoke steering wheel and a nine-inch CONNECT touchscreen. This all makes for a pleasant interior, although the Peugeot 208 is still top for overall quality.
There are three models grades to choose from include SE, SR and EX. The entry-level SE offers plenty of kit for your money, including adaptive cruise control and automatic air-conditioning. Still, it is the SR trim that remains the most popular with its larger nine-inch infotainment screen. Top-spec EX cars have heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, sat-nav, rear privacy glass and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Under the bonnet, the Jazz's e:HEV system includes a frugal 1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors to deliver 108bhp. As a self-charging hybrid, you can travel on electricity alone for short periods without the need to plug it in and charge up.
The Jazz's superb visibility and tight turning circle make it perfect for city drivers, but unfortunately, it's not as fun to drive as the Ford Fiesta or Seat Ibiza. It also makes for a comfy and confident drive on the motorway, despite wind noise at high speeds.
Prices for the new Honda Jazz start from £20,720.00 OTR* or to lease from £239.95 per month.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has some great lease deals on the Honda Jazz, with fixed low monthly rentals, a low initial outlay and flexible contract and mileage terms, making leasing an affordable alternative to buying outright with a bank loan or dealer finance.
All Jazz lease deals come with the full manufacturer's warranty and 36 months breakdown cover (from date of registration) as well as road tax for the duration of the contract and free mainland GB delivery, direct to your door (exclusions apply).
*'On the road' price correct at time of publication and typically includes one year’s road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Always check with the manufacturer.
