Between 2001, when the first generation of Honda Jazz was released, and 2020, which marks the arrival of the fourth generation, a lot has changed. However, there was something that remained unchanged and it was precisely the fact that the Japanese model remained faithful to the monocab format.
If at the time of the launch of the first generation this was easily explained by the success that these models knew at the time, currently this choice is much less consensual, as we live in the SUV/Crossover era. Honda remains convinced that this is the ideal “recipe” to make an SUV, especially if we associate it with a hybrid system.
Of course, there is only one way to find out if the Japanese brand is right and for that reason we put the new Honda Jazz to the test, a model that presents itself in our country with only one level of equipment and an engine.
a different path
If there is one thing that no one can accuse the new Jazz of having radically cut off from previous generations in their proportions and volumes. However, it is true that, as Guilherme Costa wrote, his style became softer (the creases and the angular elements practically disappeared) and even close to that of the friendly Honda and, but in the end we still find a certain “ family atmosphere” to their predecessors.
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And, in my opinion, this is something positive, because at a time when most SUVs assume a very aggressive look and focused on sportsmanship, it's always nice to see a brand take another path.
In addition, as is common in this MPV format, we see benefits in terms of the use of space and versatility of the interior and solutions such as the split front pillar — an asset in terms of visibility.
Spacious but not only
Contrary to what happens outside, inside the new Jazz the changes are much more noticeable and I must admit they were for the better.
Starting with the always subjective aesthetic, the dashboard seems to have been inspired by the Honda's simplicity and good taste and, with a design that is not only more harmonious than the previous generation, but also benefits from the ease of use.
Speaking of ease of use, I must mention the new infotainment system. Faster, with better graphics and much simpler to use than the one I found, for example, in the HR-V, this one reveals a positive evolution in relation to its predecessor, which was the target of criticism.
The impeccable Japanese assembly is felt inside the Honda Jazz, which in no way owes to the references of the segment. The materials are also in a good plan — the presence of “cushioned” areas is very positive — although, as is typical in the segment, there is no shortage of harder ones that are not so pleasant to the touch.
Where this one distances itself from other proposals in the segment and gains considerable advantage is in the interior versatility. From several (and practical) cup holders to a double glove compartment, we hardly don't have a place to store our belongings on board the Jazz, with the Japanese model seeming to remind us that a utility vehicle should be… useful.
Finally, it is impossible not to mention “magic banks”. A trademark of Jazz, these are easy to use and a great asset that reminds me why the versatility of minivans was so praised in the past. As for the luggage compartment, with 304 liters, despite not being a reference, it is in a good plan.
With 304 liters, the Jazz luggage compartment is at a good level.
economical but fast
At a time when Honda is strongly committed to electrifying its entire range, it is no wonder that the new Jazz is only available with a hybrid engine.
This system combines a 1.5 l four-cylinder gasoline engine with 98hp and 131Nm, which runs on the most efficient Atkinson cycle, with two electric motors: one with 109hp and 235Nm (which is connected to the drive shaft) and one second that it works as an engine-generator.
Although the numbers are not impressive, the truth is that in normal (and even more hurried) use, Jazz never disappoints, showing itself fast and always with a quick response to the requests of the right foot - no wonder, as it is the electric motor , able to deliver the torque immediately, which makes us move in practically any situation.
As for the three operating modes of the hybrid system — EV Drive (100% electric); Hybrid Drive where the gasoline engine charges the generator; and Engine Drive that connects the gasoline engine directly to the wheels—they automatically switch between them and the way they take turns is virtually unnoticeable, and congratulations are due to Honda engineers.
The only exception is when we decided to “squeeze all the juice” out of the hybrid system and then the fact that we have a fixed gear ratio makes the petrol engine make itself heard a little more on board (reminiscent of a CVT).
The fixed gearbox is only heard at (much) higher rhythms.
Easy to drive, economical to use
If the hybrid system does not disappoint in terms of performance, it is in terms of consumption and ease of use that it most surprises. For a start, Jazz feels like a “fish in the water” in an urban environment.
In addition to being very easy to drive, the Honda hybrid is very economical, having even been in these conditions that I got the best consumption at the wheel (3.6 l/100 km). On the open road and at intermediate speeds, these traveled between 4.1 to 4.3 l/100 km, having only gone up to 5 to 5.5 l/100 km when I decided to explore the dynamic aspect further.
Speaking of which, in this chapter the Honda Jazz doesn't hide that it doesn't want to steal the throne of “more dynamic utility” from models like the Ford Fiesta or the Renault Clio. Safe, stable and predictable, the Jazz trades more fun behind the wheel for pleasant serenity and remarkable comfort.
Is the car right for me?
It's true that it's not the SUV that turns more heads as they pass (even because it often goes into "silent mode"), yet by sticking to its "recipe", Honda managed to recreate a utility model that does. lives up to its name and allows for the versatility of use that we have always associated with models in this segment.
This different Honda approach may not be the most consensual, but I must admit I like it. Not only for being different, but also for remembering that we may have been too quick to “condemn” the small minivans (they might not exist as many as they used to, but they excused themselves from having disappeared almost all of them).
If it's the right car for you, it's impossible to answer this question without addressing the “elephant in the room” whenever you talk about the new Jazz: its price. For the 29 937 euros requested by our unit, it is already possible to buy models from the above segment.
However, and as always in the car market, there are campaigns to lower the price of Jazz and make it a proposal to consider among utilities. The launch price drops to 25 596 euros and whoever has a Honda at home, this value drops by another 4000 euros, setting me around 21 thousand euros.
Now, for this value, if you are looking for a car that is spacious, economical, easy to drive and (very) versatile, the Honda Jazz is the right choice. If to this we add the 7 years of unlimited mileage warranty and the 7 years of roadside assistance, the Honda model becomes a serious case to be taken into account in the segment.