In 2009, the Honda underwent a major redesign and is now available in three trim levels: LX, EX and EX-S. While each model is relatively similar to the other, there are a few specific differences. The base model, Jazz LX, is equipped with all of the standard features, while the Sporty EX-S offers a luxurious alternative to the base model.
Exterior style and aesthetics
In order to compete and keep the Honda Jazz fresh, it had an extensive makeover only two years after it first went into production. In order to compete with the crowded market, Honda wanted the new Jazz to be compact yet stylish and powerful. It has succeeded.
The new Honda Jazz’s exterior appearance is an improvement over its predecessor. While it’s always been aesthetically pleasing, the Jazz now has an added touch of class. The Honda Jazz is a four-door hatchback with a sharp nose and high roof, which adds to its sporty appearance. While the new Honda Jazz increased in width and length, its height remained the same.
In order to create room in the cabin, the Honda Jazz’s petrol tank is located beneath the front seat instead of the back seat. This innovate alteration allows for the vehicle’s compact size, without reducing its performance capabilities.
The standard model has 15-inch wheels and a standard bumper, while the Sport model is equipped with bigger wheels and sportier trim details than the standard model. These details include a modified bumper and rims. Another aesthetic difference between the two trim levels is that the standard trim level has black side mirrors and the Sport model has body-coloured side mirrors, giving it a unified exterior. The Sport trim level also features keyless entry for added security.
Comfort in the cabin
While the Honda Jazz is the smallest of Honda’s vehicles, its innovatively designed cabin is almost as spacious as larger people carriers, such as the Honda Civic. Able to seat 5 people, the Honda Jazz is slightly taller and wider than its earlier version. This slight alteration provides passengers with a more comfortable ride than before.
The rear seat design includes “magic seats” being an impressive draw card. The rear “magic seats” can be folded flat or folded vertically, to accommodate strangely shaped objects.
Both the base and the Sport trim levels include air conditioning, a telescoping steering system (which can be lengthened or shortened to allow people of different heights to drive comfortably), versatile sound system and four speakers.
In addition to these standard features, the Sport trim level includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a driver’s-side arm rest.
Under the bonnet and on the road
A Honda Jazz's engine packs quite a punch for the vehicle’s size. The Honda Jazz is equipped with a water-cooled 4 stroke SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) i-VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) engine that is able to perform at 6600 revs per minute on the EX-S and 6000 on the LX model.
The VTEC engine option uses two camshaft profiles and selects which profile should be used according to the effort required by the engine.
With its lightweight frame and small size, the new Honda offers little challenge for the 1.5-litre, 81-KW engine found beneath its bonnet. Many car reviewers have noted that it’s an incredibly fun car to drive, especially around corners.
The five-speed manual gearbox incorporates carbon-fibre synchronisers that allow for quick, smooth gear changing.