Honda Jazz Hybrid (2011 – 2015) Review

Honda Jazz Hybrid (2011 – 2015) At A Glance

3/5

+Spacious and high quality interior. Easy to get in and out of. Retains 'Magic Seat' versatility. Officially capable of 62.8mpg.

-Expensive list prices. Emits 104g/km of CO2 so not free to tax. CVT box smooth but this is no sports car.

Insurance Groups are between 16–17
On average it achieves 88% of the official MPG figure

While hybrid cars were once seen as a bit of a leftfield choice by many buyers, they are becoming more popular, reflected in the increasing choice of hybrid models on the market. The combination of a petrol engine with an electric motor, improving both performance and efficiency, works especially well for larger cars. Even Porsche has got in on the act with two hybrid models - the Cayenne and Panamera.

The challenge is making the technology work on smaller cars where the margins in efficiency are so much tighter and where traditional petrol combustion engines are the norm. Step forward the Honda Jazz Hybrid. Surprisingly it's the first hybrid supermini - beating many if its rivals, none so more than Toyota - to that accolade.

The cleanest Jazz uses the same powertrain as the Honda Insight - a 1.3-litre i-VTEC engine combined with a CVT gearbox, with an electric motor sandwiched between the two to create a parallel hybrid system. And just like the Insight, the Jazz Hybrid is capable of running on the electric motor alone at low-speeds. It's ideal for city driving with a smooth and seamless gearbox - the CVT replacing the unloved i-SHIFT automated manual in the Jazz range - and will return a claimed 62.8mpg.

The only fly in the ointment is emissions - at 104g/km it doesn't qualify for free VED. But as a suburban car it's still a better choice than a diesel as there's no diesel particulate filter, plus to its quiet and relaxing to drive. Add in great flexibility with the clever Magic Seats - the best seating system around - plus a well built and easy to use cabin, and the Jazz Hybrid has plenty going for it.

However, what will put many off is the price. The Jazz Hybrid starts at a shade under £16,000 rising to £19,000 for the top version. That's a lot for a Jazz especially compared to the standard 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre petrol models, both of which are already very economical.

If you're looking for the newer version, you need our Honda Jazz review.

Real MPG average for a Honda Jazz Hybrid (2011 – 2015)

RealMPG

Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.

Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.

Average performance

88%

Real MPG

42–65 mpg

MPGs submitted

106

Diesel or petrol? If you're unsure whether to go for a petrol or diesel (or even an electric model if it's available), then you need our Petrol or Diesel? calculator. It does the maths on petrols, diesels and electric cars to show which is best suited to you.

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Ask Honest John

Can you recommend a hybrid car with easy access?

"I have a 2016 plate Fiesta Titanium automatic. For health reasons it has become too low to get in and out of the car easily and without pain. I have been driving cars with an automatic gear box for many years and this suits me well. Are you able to give me suggestions of any cars that you think I should be looking at? I am open to hybrid engines but could not manage the charging problems of a fully electric car. I would prefer 4/5 doors because I need passengers to have easy access to the back seats. The second question is about the possible value I could get on my present car so that I can work out how much capital I would need to use to buy a more comfortable car within the next year. My present Fiesta has mileage of about 20,000 and is fully dealer serviced since I bought it when it was less that a year old."
First of all, we'd recommend looking at the latest Honda Jazz. It's a hybrid car with easy access, a higher-than-normal seating position and lots of interior space. Alternatively, take a look at small SUVs like the Volkswagen T-Roc. This guide might be useful: https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/guides/best-small-suv/ For a valuation of your Fiesta, insert your registration number here for an accurate idea of its value: https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/how-much-is-my-car-worth/
Answered by Andrew Brady

How long will the battery last in a Honda Jazz Hybrid?

"I'm thinking of buying a new Honda Jazz Hybrid. My only concern is the lifespan of the batteries powering the motors. I intend to keep the car for 10 or more years so what's the likelihood of the batteries lasting that long? "
Batteries from older hybrid and electric cars seem to be standing the test of time. Honda has found that the battery in the Civic IMA (from 2002) usually lasts 10-14 years, and no replacements have yet been needed for newer models such as the Insight and Jazz Hybrid. The battery in the Jazz is covered by a comprehensive warranty for the first five years or 90,000 miles – whichever comes first.
Answered by Andrew Brady

Should I regularly drive the Honda Jazz Hybrid in B mode?

"I drive a new Honda Jazz Hybrid and I’ve read that a lot of people drive using B mode up to 45mph for almost one peddle driving. Will this damage the engine or transmission in the long run?"
It won't cause any damage, in fact it will prolong the life of your brake discs and pads by providing most of the car's stopping power. All it does is reverse the direction the electric motor spins – so it produces electricity from kinetic energy of the car slowing.
Answered by Russell Campbell

I have a damaged car to trade in, should I get it fixed first?

"I need to change my 2017 car but I had a bump recently and wonder if I should get it mended or trade it in as it is. I've loved the Yeti, but it's started to have a few problems lately so I'd like to get a more reliable car. I've had Skodas for years now and really like them, but they don't do a Fabia as a hybrid, which is what I was looking at. I'm not averse to changing makes, I just need a reliable car — preferably a hybrid that I can get my granddaughters' massive car seats in easily. My budget would be around £25k max. Thank you for any help and advice you can offer."
It's probably worth getting the damage repaired first – depending on the extent of the damage, you might be able to get a relatively affordable smart repair done. A damage-free car creates a better first impression and will increase the price offered in part exchange. We'd recommend a Honda Jazz Hybrid as a replacement for your Yeti. It's a really practical small car that'll be reliable and cheap to run.
Answered by Andrew Brady
More Questions

What does a Honda Jazz Hybrid (2011 – 2015) cost?