The second generation Honda Jazz proves that small can be big on practicality.
Available with either 1.2 or 1.4 litre petrol power, the Jazz is one of the most practical cars on the market. It is frugal, spacious, stuffed with kit and will hold its value well.
The new exterior is an evolution of the classic one-box MPV look. The front end is stubby and steeply raked while the roofline is clearly taller than most superminis, so all the family will fit easily. The rear has a vertical tailgate that when opened reveals a pretty nifty cargo area. There are a few bulges in the light clusters and a couple of nice creases in the bodywork to please the eye, but these are just a bonus as this car isn't about looking flash. First impressions of the Jazz are spot on; it is simply a practical, sensible car.
Inside the cabin is vast and airy. There is enough headroom for the most spiked teenager's hair, even Amy Winehouse could keep her beehive intact inside the Jazz. Rear seat passengers get more legroom than before and while shoulder-room isn't massive, the Jazz can still take five people in more comfort than most of its rivals.
Up front, there is a huge amount of space. The dash has been given a massive makeover and is now as high tech as you could want in the supermini class. The driving position is great and all round visibility is impressive. The steering is light and the gear shift precise and effortless. My test car was the top of the range 1.4 litre with every toy imaginable fitted including a huge sunroof. Proper iPod and MP3 connectivity also makes any dull journey less tiresome.
On the go the Jazz feels more composed than its predecessor and this is due to the suspension makeover and wider track. The 'iVtec' engines in the range are free revving, nippy and thrifty. Overall the Jazz feels far more secure when cornering. My test car had big alloys fitted and while these looked the part they wouldn't be my choice for our poor road network. I'd like to say the ride was sporty but it was really just a little harsh on anything other than smooth roads.
Honda has worked hard to reduce NVH (noise/vibration/harshness) and the result is a cabin that is much quieter than the car it replaces. The very large cabin is still far from whisper quiet at motorway speed but nonetheless it is a pleasant place to be.
The Jazz has terrific cargo space with a split-level boot and rear 'Magic' seats that not only fold flat but also up to reveal floor to roof storage space in the rear. DIY lovers will appreciate the Jazz as not only can it swallow up flat-pack furniture but should the need arise it can even take a Yucca plant in its pot!
With pricing relatively high next to a Fiesta you need to look at the overall versatility of the Jazz to see why it is worth the premium.
Michael Sheridan
