Honda Jazz (2008 - 2015) 1.3 IMA HS Hybrid 5d CVT (2011/60) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'm not into using my car to make statements, so I guess this question is best asked of those who see me in it!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Cool small car. One friend surprised me by suggesting that we don't need our Mercedes any more, because she perceived the Jazz Hybrid to be a perfect family car. I still perceive it as a small car, but it's true that when you're inside it, it's never cramped, so maybe she has a point.

Would you buy this car again and why?

As a small economical runabout with loads of space inside, and assuming it continues to prove reliable, then yes, I'd buy it again.

What are you likely to buy next?

Based on dealer competence, in particular poor after-sales support, it most likely won't be a Honda. I'm currently considering the new Toyota Auris Hybrid, but that's a couple of years down the line.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£16,495

When did you buy the car?

December 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Managed to get the metallic paint discounted, but Honda discounts seem hard to come by.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Interior space, fuel economy, Honda reliability.

What was the dealer like?

Pleasant but not very competent.

What's it like to drive?

It's a bit jiggly on an uneven road surface. However, on good roads, it's quite comfortable. Steering is vague on centre, i.e. it tends to require constant correction to keep it straight, which can be tiresome; this is something Honda said they had attempted to address since the previous generation Jazz, but I think they could have done more in this respect.

What's it like to park?

Easy. We don't have the reversing sensors, but the back window as you look behind is effectively the back of the car, so it's really easy to judge when reversing (as long as your target isn't below the window line!). The front of the car ends well before you think it should; when I pull forwards right up as close to an object as I think I can get, I'm often surprised when I get out and see I'm miles away. So I'd say it's very easy to park, forwards and backwards, with zero risk of bumping it.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not yet. Minor observations so far are that the CVT transmission is a bit rattly when cold or when reversing, and the heater isn't particularly effective in cold weather unless you crank it up to maximum.

What's most practical about your car?

Interior space is great considering it's compact external size. Average fuel economy is 50mpg by real-world calculations, and is still increasing a year later. Granted, a diesel vehicle may have been cheaper and might provide better fuel economy, but for regular, short daily trips, a petrol vehicle seemed a better alternative for us, so no complaints.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

None.