Honda Jazz

Inside the cabin, the flagship Honda Jazz continues the sporty vibe with its leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob complemented with the orange accent. However, the leather stops there. The upholstery of the Jazz does not come with leather seats but with black fabric, that’s true even for the RS model which only comes with matching orange stitching. Honda makes up for it by giving Jazz other functional features like power-folding mirror control; paddle shifters; touchscreen automatic AC; audio, cruise control, and hands-free phone control on the steering wheel; and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a navigation system, apps, and other features.

Compared to other B segment hatchbacks like the Mitsubishi Mirage, Ford Fiesta, or the Hyundai Accent, the all-new Jazz is a sporty hatchback that boasts of edgy looks and sporty accents not commonly found on compact sedans. The Jazz RS, in particular, has a redesigned front grille that looks more robust with chrome trims that tie in the LED headlights with daytime running lights. The sculpted black chrome carbon accent on the lower bumper with matching fog lamps adds another dimension to its ruggedness. The side crease and deep curves make the car look more dynamic. On the top back of the car is an imposing tailgate spoiler with a stop lamp and down below is a rear bumper with a black matte aerodynamic groove which adds more to its sporty appeal. The only downside on this car is, it still has that rubber duck antenna. Though the shark fin antenna is available as part of the aftermarket Modulo kit, it would be more modern-looking if Jazz variants came with it, or at least the RS model.

When it comes to handling the car, the Jazz is very responsive both when cruising on the expressway or weaving through the city traffic. The CVT makes sure that the car can easily shift on stop and go traffic with ease. This Honda hatch is also an ideal car for those long weekend trips because of its roomier cabin compared to other subcompact sedans in this segment. In fact, Jazz's wheelbase of 2,530 mm is longer than that of the Mitsubishi Mirage, Suzuki Swift, and Ford Fiesta. Add to that, the back seats and the front passenger seats can be easily reconfigured and tucked away to adjust space for irregularly shaped cargo. If you need to take a quick rest, Honda advises that you simply remove the headrest of the front seat and recline the seat back to create a lounge chair for you to stretch out or take a quick nap.

The current Honda Jazz is powered by a Euro 4 compliant Chain Drive SOHC i-VTEC 4 cylinder, 16-valve petrol engine that delivers a maximum of 120 PS of output at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine is mated to either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. The tank capacity of Jazz holds 40 liters and uses programmed fuel injection for its supply system. In terms of fuel efficiency, this Honda hatch can run a hundred kilometers in 5.8 liters of fuel.

When it comes to safety, the Honda Jazz provides the basics you’d expect on a subcompact car and then some. The Jazz RS comes not just with the usual front airbags, but also with side curtain airbags for added protection. Other safety and driver-assist feature to make driving a little less stressful and a lot more safe include hill start assist (HSA), an anti-lock brake system with electronic brake distribution (ABS with EBD), vehicle stability assist (VSA), push start button, and multi-view reverse camera with guidelines for visual cues when parking.

For small families, yuppies, and first-time car owners who are privy to their budget will find the Honda Jazz a smart choice. It is a very functional and versatile car that can take on the rough daily commute within the city but still have enough power and feature to take the whole family on long drives without passengers feeling cramp or claustrophobic.