Honda Jazz 2024 review
Photo: Charles from Port Chester, New York (CC BY 2.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Honda Jazz is the supermini for people who hate superminis. Every 2024 model is a hybrid, pairing a 1.5-litre petrol engine with Honda's e:HEV system for around 62mpg in everyday driving. Inside, the famous Magic Seats fold, flip and tip in clever ways, turning the cabin into a surprisingly capable load-lugger for a car this size. The driving feel is light and friendly, and visibility is excellent thanks to the tall glasshouse. It is not exciting, but it is honest: easy to park, cheap to run, and built with the care Honda is known for. For small families or older drivers who want comfort and practicality above image, the Jazz makes a very strong case.
The Jazz is the cleverest small car on sale. Its Magic Seats fold in multiple ways — the rear bases flip up like cinema seats to swallow tall plants, a bicycle or a flat-pack wardrobe — giving it practicality that shames cars a class above. The smooth hybrid system is hushed and frugal, visibility is superb, and the high roofline makes getting in and out effortless.
From £25,500 it costs more than a Corsa or Clio, but Honda's bulletproof reliability reputation and strong resale values narrow the real-world gap. It is a long-time favourite among older drivers for its easy access and simplicity, yet anyone wanting dependable, economical, cleverly packaged transport should look closely. The Jazz does more with less than almost anything else.
Related reviews: Honda Civic 2024 review · Honda CR V 2024 review · Honda HR V 2024 review
UK price from: £25,500
Specifications
| Engine | 1.5 e:HEV hybrid |
| Power | ~109hp |
| 0-60 mph | ~9.5s |
| Transmission | e-CVT automatic |
| Fuel type | Hybrid |
| Fuel economy | ~62mpg combined |
| CO2 emissions | ~102g/km |
| Seats | 5 |
| Boot space | 304L |
| Insurance group | 16 |
Features
- Key features: 1.5 e:HEV hybrid as standard; Honda Magic Seats flexible folding; Adaptive cruise with lane keep; Heated front seats; Rear-view camera; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; Automatic climate control; LED lights all round
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | £36.99 | Fits e:HEV; replace both sides together |
| Rear brake pads | £29.99 | Often last longer thanks to regen braking |
| Oil filter | £10.49 | Use OEM-spec for warranty protection |
| Cabin pollen filter | £15.99 | Keeps cabin air fresh; yearly change |
| Spark plugs (set) | £27.99 | Iridium type; long service intervals |
| Drive belt | £24.99 | Inspect at 60k miles; replace if cracked |
Pros
- Brilliant interior flexibility. Very easy to drive and park. Excellent fuel economy. Comfortable tall driving position.
Cons
- Plain to look at. Road noise on rough surfaces. Pricier than some rivals.
