Review: Honda Jazz e:HEV

Julie Marshall reckons the Honda Jazz is still one of the best superminis around

No matter how many times I drive the Honda Jazz, I’m reminded just how much I like it. It’s a terrific little car and, in my opinion, one of the best superminis around. And it’s not only me that thinks so. My co-driver, who is usually quick to criticise small cars, had nothing but praise for it during our week with the Jazz.

For a compact car, it’s remarkably spacious. The boot will comfortably swallow a week’s shopping, and the hard-wearing plastic liner makes it easy to clean after carrying dogs, muddy boots or garden supplies, as we did. There’s 304 litres of luggage space with the rear seats in place and an impressive 1,205 litres when they are folded.

One of the Jazz’s cleverest features remains Honda’s ingenious Magic Seats. The rear seat bases flip upwards to create extra vertical storage, making it easy to carry taller or awkwardly shaped items that simply would not fit in many rival superminis.

Owning and driving a car should be enjoyable and uncomplicated, and the Jazz delivers on both counts. There’s nothing gimmicky about the controls. The climate functions are operated by physical buttons within easy reach, while the responsive 9in touchscreen handles everything else. In truth, I relied on Apple CarPlay for most of the week, so rarely had to delve into the car’s own menus.

The wide-opening doors and high driving position make getting in and out particularly easy, which will appeal to anyone with mobility issues. Heated front seats come as standard on higher trims, while there’s plenty of adjustment in both the seat and steering wheel to help drivers find a comfortable position. Three people can sit across the back at a pinch, but two adults will be much happier on longer journeys.

On the road, the Jazz feels composed and refined. The suspension is on the firm side without becoming uncomfortable, soaking up potholes and speed bumps with little fuss. Narrow front pillars and a large windscreen provide excellent visibility, while front and rear parking sensors, together with a clear reversing camera, make parking straightforward and stress free.

Power comes from a single 1.5-litre self-charging petrol hybrid producing 105bhp. Around town it runs quietly, switching seamlessly between petrol and electric power to maximise efficiency, with no need to plug it in. There are four trim levels: Elegance, Advance, Advance Sport and Crosstar Advance.

Fuel economy is a real highlight. During our week-long test we averaged a rather impressive 59.5 mpg, just shy of the official combined figure of 61.4mpg. Despite its efficiency, the Jazz never feels sluggish. It’s smooth, easy to drive, reassuringly refined and perfectly suited to everyday life.

Overall, it remains one of the most practical, dependable and likeable small cars currently on sale, and one I would happily recommend to anyone looking for sensible, economical motoring without sacrificing comfort, versatility or quality.

Honda Jazz e:HEV

Price: £29.630 (£31,670 as tested)