Review: Honda Jazz e:HEV

The Honda Jazz received a refresh in 2023, bringing subtle updates to its styling, powertrain and equipment levels.

I’ve driven the Jazz several times, and it manages to impress on every occasion. It’s an attractive car without trying too hard, rides comfortably thanks to its supple (but well-controlled) suspension, and offers far more interior space than its compact footprint suggests.

Often labelled as a car for older drivers, the Jazz’s appeal arguably comes down to just how easy it is to live with. Wide-opening doors and a slightly raised seating position make getting in and out noticeably easier—something you quickly come to appreciate in daily use.

Put simply, I’m a big fan. It sits near the top of my “realistic wish list”—the cars I’d genuinely buy, rather than just dream about.

Choosing a Jazz is refreshingly straightforward. There’s a single engine option: a 1.5-litre petrol hybrid producing 105bhp, paired with two electric motors. Around town and under gentle acceleration it’s quiet and refined, seamlessly switching between petrol and electric power to maximise efficiency. As a self-charging hybrid, there’s no need to plug it in—the system manages everything itself.

The economy is a real highlight. During a week of testing, we averaged 58mpg, not far off the official combined figure of 61.4mpg.

Despite its efficiency focus, the Jazz is far from sluggish. It’s genuinely pleasant to drive, and once you get used to the regenerative braking, it feels even more intuitive. The 0–62mph time of 9.6 seconds is perfectly adequate for everyday driving.

The driving position is another strength. If, like me, you prefer sitting slightly higher rather than being sunk into a low-slung seat, the Jazz delivers. Visibility is excellent in all directions thanks to well-positioned pillars, and standard parking sensors—along with a rear-view camera on higher trims—make manoeuvring effortless.

Inside, the Jazz strikes a welcome balance between modern tech and usability. While touchscreen controls are present, Honda has wisely retained physical climate control knobs—something I much prefer over fiddly touch-sensitive alternatives.

Space in the rear is generous for two adults, with room for a third when needed. Storage throughout the cabin is plentiful, with useful compartments dotted around. Boot space stands at 304 litres, expanding to an impressive 1,305 litres with the seats folded.

A standout feature remains Honda’s cleverly designed “Magic Seats,” which allow the rear seat bases to flip up, creating additional vertical storage space—ideal for awkward or taller items.

Somewhat surprisingly, the Jazz can now be fitted with a tow bar, offering a modest towing capacity of up to 500kg—though it’s hard to imagine many owners taking advantage of that.

Overall, the Jazz continues to be a thoughtfully engineered, highly practical small car that quietly excels in everyday use.

Honda Jazz e:HEV

Price: £29.280 (£29,955 as tested)

Engine: 1.5 i-MMD hybrid

Power: 105bhp

Torque: 96lb/ft

Transmission: CVT

Top speed: 108mph

0-62mph: 9.6 seconds

Economy: 61.4mpg

CO 2 emissions:105g/km