Honda Jazz (2008 – 2015) Review

Honda Jazz (2008 – 2015) At A Glance

5/5

+Neatly styled. Increased room and better performance than original Jazz. better to drive. Very versatile. CVT-7 returned in February 2011 replacing i-SHIFT. More reliable than first generation Jazz.

-Six-speed i-SHIFT automated manual disliked and did not bring Jazz under 120g/km CO2. Gearbox bearing problems on manual. 120PS 1.5 iVTEC engine and 5-speed torque converter auto n/a in UK. Cat converter thefts reported.

Insurance Groups are between 13–19
On average it achieves 91% of the official MPG figure

I don't have to persuade people into buying a Jazz. They love it anyway, for all of the sensible reasons I'd have used in my sales pitch.

So it's not an emotional decision based on looks alone, as it might be for a Fiat 500 or a MINI. It's the whole package: a car that's going to do everything you want, never let you down, and not cost a lot to run.

The 2008 Jazz takes everything people loved about the old Jazz. Then takes it all a couple of steps forwards.

You get an even more versatile interior. Better performance. Improved economy. And they've also made it handle and ride better, the two less than brilliant aspects of the old car that buyers tolerated because the rest of the car was so good.

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

Real MPG average for a Honda Jazz (2008 – 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

91%

Real MPG

33–59 mpg

MPGs submitted

1224

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.

Satisfaction Index

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Ask Honest John

What should I look for when buying an imported Honda Jazz Hybrid?

"My partner has seen a 61 plate Honda Jazz Hybrid online that has just been imported from Japan that she is interested in, it looks a very nice car and is high spec. Having just sold our Figaro, we're not too worried about the import side as obviously that was an import but are not sure about older hybrids and what servicing is required outside of what's needed for a normal petrol car. I have just read your description of yybrids as I didn't know anything about them and so know a bit more now. We were also bothered that the write up from the garage contained bad English, which always triggers alarm bells with me. What would we need to look out for on this car compared to if it was a Honda Jazz hybrid that was here already?"
Generally speaking a hybrid needs no additional servicing compared to a conventional car, other than routine checking of the battery health. The main concern for an imported vehicle is the quality and accuracy of the service history, which is crucial when buying any used vehicle. If you cannot verify the vehicle's history with any confidence, we would question its value compared to a UK car.
Answered by David Ross

My neighbour has been quote £1,900 to replace their Honda Jazz exhaust, is this right?

"Elderly neighbour been quoted a whopping £1,900 including vat and fitting for full exhaust including cat for a 2008 Honda Jazz 1.4 petrol manual. Excessive surely? Any ideas where to go? Online suggests around £700 for parts. Car has done 160,000 miles but is surprisingly good."
Although using a main dealer ensures manufacturer parts are used, it also generally the most expensive option. Thankfully there is plenty of choice when it comes to exhaust replacement. You could try an independent Honda specialist, or any number of fast-fit garages that can offer exhaust replacement. You can find an independent garage near you using the Honest John Good Garage Guide here: https://good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk/ It is also worth mentioning that the catalytic converter will be contributing significantly to the cost of this repair.
Answered by David Ross

We need a small and cheap automatic - what do you suggest?

"We have a Ukrainian guest who would like to buy an automatic car for around £5000. We are worried about all the extra costs so a good start would be something likely to be reliable. Where to start?"
A Honda Jazz should be a fairly reliable choice. Look for one with the CVT automatic gearbox rather than the i-Shift transmission briefly offered between 2008 and 2011. A Hyundai i20 could be a good alternative, although you might struggle to find an automatic within budget.
Answered by Andrew Brady

I need a cheap car with easy access for my wife who uses a wheelchair?

"I need a 2/3 door car large with a wide open passenger door. My wife has a wheelchair that slides into the passenger seat. I have a 3-door Volkswagen Polo which works, however, I sold my previous Hyundai i30, which was a mistake. Any older car will do if it is as reliable as my Hyundai. £5000 is my budget. Were both aged 83 and larger cars would be preferred comfort-wise "
If you don't to go back to another Hyundai i30, we would suggest looking at the Honda Jazz, as although it has five doors it has a tall body and offers easy access. Alternatively the 2006-2011 Toyota Yaris was available in three-door form also has a tall body, so should make getting in and out easier for your wife. Also both of these options have good reliability records and you should find many examples available within your budget.
Answered by David Ross
More Questions

What does a Honda Jazz (2008 – 2015) cost?