Honda Jazz (2008 - 2015) 1.4 i-VTEC EX i-SHIFT 5d Auto (2009/58) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Eh? Who cares? If I want to show off (and it's dry) I'll drive my Westfield!

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

Our neighbours have a nearly identical Jazz... :-) Friends and family pleasantly surprised by space and quality inside.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. One of those rare models where *everything* is improved over the previous version. Very easy to live with.

What are you likely to buy next?

We may trade up to a Civic or similar when the kids get bigger. But the Jazz should last us years.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£7,500

When did you buy the car?

April 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

Reasonable. They wouldn't discount or throw in major extras, but Jazz autos are not available in large numbers so not so surprising. Gentle attempt to sell gap insurance (declined - bought independently on www afterwards, easy & much cheaper!), sensible discussion over service deal and warranty options. All very businesslike and friendly.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Previous 08 Jazz CVT 1.4 DSi was written off.

What was the dealer like?

Excellent. Offered two long test drives to get used to I-Shift and gave us both plenty of time behind the wheel. Previous car was old model CVT Jazz: my wife only drives auto, I prefer manual, so this time was really crucial in our decision.

What's it like to drive?

Excellent. Engine much more willing than old model 1.4 DSi CVT Jazz. Far better fuel economy on the motorway: 50 mpg no problem. We tested the I-Shift when the new model Jazz first came out and didn't like it. BUT Honda's software upgrade makes it far better. The I-Shift really works as an auto! If you need to zip out at a roundabout, just floor the throttle and it will get the message. Can get a bit confused on short hills or ramps in multistorey car park but you can just pop it in manual mode for a sec and it's fine. Gear change in manual mode is nearly as good as VW DSG box without the complexity and unreliability a few years down the line. Far, far better than Toyota MMT. Brakes, steering, cornering all fine.

What's it like to park?

Easy. Big (electrically folding) mirrors, compact shape.

Have you had any problems with the car?

No. Had a surprising service reminder on the car's computer (beeps on starting engine). Phoned dealer - they confirmed we should ignore it and just bring car in for regular annual service. Read manual, reset service reminder, no more beeps, solved.

What's most practical about your car?

Interior space vs. exterior size cannot be beaten. We tried loads of other cars (Nissan Note, etc. etc.) and nothing has the flexibility and space of the Jazz. Proper little TARDIS!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

EX has glass roof. Takes out a bit of rear headroom but kids are normally there. They love the sky view. I like the driver's arm rest and excellent comfy seats. The I-Shift in manual mode is outstanding. The lower compartment with luggage net in the boot is so handy.