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We need to buy an automatic - does the Honda Jazz still use the I-Shift technology?

As a result of a recent illness my wife will need to change her car for an automatic. She currently drives a fairly new Honda Jazz manual. We would be happy to stick with a Jazz but are put off by recent comments regarding the I-SHIFT. I understand that Honda may soon be reverting back to the CVT. Should we wait or is there a better alternative?

Asked on 27 October 2010 by PD, via email

Answered by Honest John
Consider the Mazda 2 1.5 auto that arrived in the UK in November. Here's a 1,900 kilometre test and video in Thailand: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/mazda/mazda-2-auto. The Suzuki Swift 1.5 auto would have run it close, but that model is no longer available (unless from old stocks). If you want something taller with more upright seats, then a Nissan Note 1.6 auto, KIA Venga 1.6 auto or Hyundai ix20 1.6 auto. There's also a Focus 1.4 auto, but I don't rate is as highly as the Mazda 2. And now the Honda Jazz has its CVT-7 automatic back, instead of the I-SHIFT, with an improved torque converter clutch that makes it no less fuel efficient: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/honda/jazz-hybrid
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