The Honda Jazz sits in a unique position in the used supermini market. While commanding slightly higher prices than mainstream rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa, owners consistently report ownership experiences that justify those premium prices through exceptional reliability, practicality, and low running costs. There are specific model years and variants worth targeting—particularly the post-2018 facelift models with the 1.5-liter engine—and others to approach with caution, such as early CVT transmission examples that could develop issues at higher mileages.

This comprehensive review digs deep into what actual owners wish they’d known before buying, combining expert analysis with real-world experiences to help you make an informed decision on this practical but sometimes overlooked supermini.

What Is In The Review

• 1

  Overview

• 2

  Performance

• 3

  Reliability

• 4

  Ownership Costs

• 5

  Competitors

• 6

  Buying Guide

Overview

Quick Facts You Can Trust About this Model

• The Honda Jazz features innovative “Magic Seats” that not only fold flat but can also fold upward cinema-style, creating a 1,314-liter cargo space that rivals some compact SUVs.
• Post-2018 facelift models come with the Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies as standard on higher trim levels, including collision mitigation braking and lane keep assist—features usually reserved for more premium vehicles.
• Despite its compact exterior dimensions (just 4,051mm long), the Jazz offers interior space that rivals cars from the class above, with exceptional headroom and rear legroom.
• Over 7 million Jazz models have been sold worldwide since its introduction, making it one of Honda’s most successful global models despite its low-key image.
• The Jazz consistently ranks among the top three most reliable superminis in owner satisfaction surveys, with many examples exceeding 200,000 miles without major mechanical issues.

How Does It Stand Out Compared To The Previous Models?

The third-generation Jazz (2015-2024) marks a significant evolution from its predecessors. While the original models established a reputation for reliability and practicality, this generation elevates those attributes while addressing previous shortcomings.

Boot capacity increased to 354 liters (expandable to 1,314 liters) compared to the previous generation’s 337 liters, despite maintaining similar external dimensions. The Magic Seats system was refined further, offering even more flexibility for carrying unusual loads.

The interior quality took a substantial leap forward, with better materials and a more modern design that feels less utilitarian than earlier models. Technology was dramatically improved with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system on most variants, though early software could be frustratingly slow.

Looking ahead to the fourth generation (introduced in some markets in 2024), the Jazz has evolved further with a standard hybrid powertrain and even more technology. The newest model offers improved refinement and efficiency but comes with a significant price premium over this third generation.

In short: while the first two generations established the Jazz as a practical choice, the third generation (2015-2024) transformed it into a more rounded, refined proposition without sacrificing its core strengths. It’s the sweet spot in the model’s evolution—more modern than earlier versions but more affordable than the latest model.

Which Model In This Generation Stand Out?

The 2018-2020 1.5 i-VTEC Sport model represents the sweet spot in the range. This post-facelift model addressed most of the electronics and infotainment niggles of the earlier cars, while the 130PS 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine offers the perfect balance of performance and economy.

The Sport trim adds visual appeal with a subtle bodykit, attractive 16-inch alloy wheels, and a more dynamic driving experience without sacrificing comfort. It also includes the upgraded 7-inch Honda Connect infotainment system with improved software over earlier models.

For high-mileage drivers, the 1.3 i-VTEC SE models from 2018 onward deliver exceptional fuel economy (upwards of 55mpg in real-world driving) while still offering adequate performance. These models hold their value exceptionally well due to their bulletproof reliability.

Steer clear of the very early (2015-2016) models with the CVT transmission, as these can develop issues beyond 80,000 miles that are expensive to rectify. The manual versions from this period are still reliable choices, but lack some of the refinements of the later cars.

Potential Issues To Be Aware Of

Watch out for these potential problems when buying a 2015-2024 Honda Jazz:

• Early models (2015-2016) with the CVT transmission can develop juddering issues, particularly noticeable when accelerating from low speeds. Repair costs typically range from £1,200-£2,500 depending on the severity.
• Infotainment system glitches affect many pre-facelift models, with slow response times, screen freezes, and occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues. While not a mechanical concern, it can be frustrating in daily use.
• Door seals on early examples can deteriorate, leading to wind noise at higher speeds and occasionally allowing water ingress during heavy rain. Check around the windscreen pillars and door frames carefully.
• Brake calipers can seize if the car has been used mainly for short journeys, especially in areas with salted winter roads. Listen for any scraping noises when test driving.
• Some owners report premature wear of the clutch on manual models, particularly in urban driving conditions. A healthy clutch should engage smoothly without juddering or slipping.

Word to the wise: always check that all electrics work properly, particularly the central locking system and climate control. Ensure any software updates have been applied to the infotainment system, and verify the service history is complete with evidence of regular oil changes.

Performance

Engine Line Up

The 2015-2024 Honda Jazz offers a straightforward engine lineup focused on efficiency and reliability rather than outright performance. The range centers around two naturally aspirated petrol engines.

The entry-level 1.3 i-VTEC produces 102PS (101HP) and delivers a respectable 0-62mph time of 11.4 seconds when paired with the slick 6-speed manual gearbox. While not particularly quick by modern standards, it provides adequate acceleration for urban and suburban driving with excellent fuel economy.

For those seeking more performance, the 1.5 i-VTEC (introduced with the 2018 facelift) is the pick of the range. With 130PS (128HP) and a 0-62mph time of 8.7 seconds, it feels considerably more responsive, particularly at higher speeds. The additional power transforms the Jazz from merely adequate to genuinely enjoyable to drive, especially in Sport trim.

From 2020 in some markets, Honda introduced a hybrid e:HEV model combining a 1.5-liter engine with electric motors for a total system output of 109PS. This offers impressive efficiency with a more responsive driving experience than the standard 1.3 models.

Handling & ride

For a practical supermini, the Jazz handles with surprising composure. The steering is light but precise, making the car easy to maneuver in urban environments while providing adequate feedback on open roads.

The suspension setup prioritizes comfort over sportiness, absorbing most road imperfections effectively while maintaining good body control through corners. Sport models feature slightly firmer suspension tuning, which adds a welcome degree of agility without compromising everyday comfort.

The 6-speed manual transmission deserves special mention for its light, precise shift action—a Honda trademark. The CVT automatic option offers smooth progress and excellent efficiency but can feel strained under hard acceleration, with the characteristic “rubber band” effect common to this transmission type.

Comfort

Across the 2015-2024 generation, the Jazz excels in terms of everyday comfort. The elevated seating position provides excellent visibility, while the well-shaped front seats offer good support even on longer journeys.

Road and wind noise are well controlled for the class, particularly in post-2018 facelift models which benefited from additional sound insulation. The 1.3-liter engine remains reasonably refined when cruising but can become vocal when pushed hard. The 1.5-liter unit is noticeably smoother and quieter across the rev range.

Ride quality is a strong point, with a suspension setup that absorbs urban imperfections effectively without feeling overly soft on open roads. Even the sportier models maintain good comfort levels, though they will transmit more road texture through to the cabin.

Reliability

Why You Can Trust This Car?

The 2015-2024 Honda Jazz has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable superminis available on the used market, consistently scoring highly in owner satisfaction surveys. The basic structure shows exceptional durability, with few reports of significant structural issues even in high-mileage examples.

Both the 1.3 and 1.5 i-VTEC petrol engines are extraordinarily robust, with many examples easily exceeding 150,000 miles without major mechanical intervention. These naturally aspirated units avoid the complexity and potential issues associated with turbocharging, contributing to their legendary reliability.

The manual transmissions are virtually bulletproof, typically requiring nothing more than routine fluid changes throughout their lives. The bodywork holds up extremely well against corrosion, with excellent paint quality and good panel fit that maintains its integrity over time.

Interior trim and materials demonstrate impressive resilience to wear, with many high-mileage examples still looking fresh inside. Even heavily used Jazz models typically show minimal seat bolster wear or switchgear degradation—a testament to Honda’s material quality.

The electrical systems generally prove very dependable, with few reports of significant faults in the lighting, windows, or central locking systems. Climate control components are similarly robust, with air conditioning systems rarely requiring attention beyond routine refrigerant recharging.

Suspension components show good longevity, with many owners reporting original shock absorbers and springs still performing well beyond 80,000 miles. The braking system is equally durable, with discs and pads typically lasting longer than many competitors due to the Jazz’s relatively light weight.

Regular maintenance costs stay very reasonable, with minor services around £150-£180 and major services approximately £280-£350 at independent specialists. The car’s design makes many routine maintenance tasks straightforward, helping to keep labor costs down.

What Rarely Goes Wrong?

Based on extensive owner feedback and reliability data, the engine, manual transmission, electrical system, and suspension components rarely experience significant issues in the 2015-2024 Honda Jazz when properly maintained.

The most commonly reported problems are occasional infotainment system glitches in pre-facelift models and CVT transmission juddering in some early examples. Thankfully, major mechanical failures are exceptionally rare, making the Jazz one of the most dependable used car purchases available.

Is This The Most Reliable In This Generation?

The 2015-2024 Jazz shows a clear reliability advantage over the 2008-2015 second-generation model, which itself was a highly dependable car. The third generation benefits from Honda’s continuous refinement of the i-VTEC engine technology and improved electronics.

Post-2018 facelift models demonstrate particularly impressive reliability, with Honda having addressed most of the minor issues that affected early third-generation cars. The infotainment system was upgraded with more responsive software, while the CVT transmission programming was refined to improve durability and smoothness.

This generation also offers a better balance of technology and simplicity compared to the latest fourth-generation model. While the newest Jazz adds hybrid technology as standard, the 2015-2024 models maintain mechanical simplicity that contributes to their exceptional dependability while still offering modern conveniences.

How Does The Tiguan’s Long-Term Reliability Compare At High Mileage (100k+) Versus Low Mileage?

The Honda Jazz demonstrates exceptional durability as mileage increases, with a reliability curve that flattens out rather than dropping off sharply like many competitors. Low-mileage examples (under 50,000 miles) typically experience virtually no mechanical issues beyond routine maintenance items.

As mileages climb beyond 100,000 miles, the Jazz continues to perform admirably with only minor age-related concerns emerging. Owners report that timing chains on both the 1.3 and 1.5 engines maintain their integrity well beyond the mileage where many competitors would require replacement. The manual gearbox typically remains smooth and precise even at high mileages, rarely requiring attention beyond occasional fluid changes.

CVT automatic transmissions represent the only significant concern at higher mileages, with some early examples developing juddering or hesitation around 80,000-100,000 miles if maintenance has been neglected. However, regularly serviced CVT models often reach 150,000+ miles without major issues, particularly post-2018 examples.

Suspension components typically begin showing signs of wear around 90,000-100,000 miles, though replacements are relatively affordable (front shock absorbers approximately £150-200 per pair plus fitting). The car’s electrical systems demonstrate impressive longevity, with even high-mileage examples rarely developing significant electrical faults.

Real Ownership Experience

Here is the total ownership cost breakdown for the Honda Jazz (2015-2024):

Holding Its Value?

The Honda Jazz demonstrates impressively strong residual values, consistently outperforming most rivals in the supermini segment. A well-maintained 2015-2024 Jazz typically retains about 42-48% of its value after five years—approximately 5-8% better than the class average.

Looking at specific examples: A 2018 Jazz SE with the 1.3 i-VTEC engine, originally costing around £15,000, still commands approximately £9,000-£10,000 today—roughly 65% value retention over six years. The 1.5 i-VTEC Sport models tend to hold their value particularly well due to their relative rarity and desirable specification.

This strong residual performance means that while the Jazz might cost slightly more to purchase than some mainstream rivals, the total ownership cost often works out similar or even lower when factoring in the reduced depreciation. This makes the Jazz an exceptionally sound financial proposition for used car buyers concerned about future values.

The Cheapest Models To Maintain

The 2018-onwards 1.3 i-VTEC SE manual stands out as the most cost-effective Jazz to run and maintain. It represents the sweet spot in the range for the following reasons:

• Simpler engine with fewer potential issues than the CVT variants
• Lower insurance group than the 1.5 i-VTEC models (group 13 vs. 16-19)
• Excellent fuel economy (48-55mpg in real-world conditions)
• Affordable parts costs with wide availability
• Low wear rates on consumables like brakes and clutch

The SE trim offers a good balance of equipment without the additional complexity of some features found on higher specifications. Items like the standard steel wheels with hubcaps (rather than alloys) can significantly reduce replacement costs if damaged, though many owners prefer to upgrade to alloys for aesthetic reasons.

What Is The Typical Lifespan Of Major Components (Transmission, Engine, Electrical Systems)?

What are the most expensive common repairs reported by owners?

Drawing from real Jazz owners’ experiences, there are relatively few costly repairs to anticipate, but some components do eventually require attention. As one owner put it:

“My 2016 Jazz has been practically bulletproof—120,000 miles and counting with just routine maintenance. It’s the definition of hassle-free motoring.”

The CVT transmission tops the expense list when problems do occur, with repairs typically costing £1,200-£2,500 if issues develop around the 90,000-100,000 mile mark. As a Reddit user noted:

“The CVT transmission needs its fluid changed every 25,000 miles religiously. Honda officially says longer intervals are fine, but most long-term owners disagree.”

On higher-mileage examples, the starter motor can occasionally fail, with replacements costing around £250-£350 fitted. Some owners report air conditioning compressor failures on cars approaching 100,000 miles, with repair costs around £500-£700.

For diesel variants (not available in all markets), the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) might require attention around 80,000-100,000 miles at a cost of £800+. As another owner shared:

“These aren’t demanding cars, but they do appreciate being serviced on time. I’ve seen people skip oil changes to save money only to have problems later that cost far more to fix.”

Which Model In This Generation Has The Lowest Depreciation?

Looking at depreciation performance across the range, the 2018-2020 Sport and EX models with the 1.5 i-VTEC engine demonstrate the strongest residual values. These hold approximately 65-68% of their value after three years—significantly better than the class average.

The mid-spec SE trim with the 1.3 i-VTEC engine also performs strongly in the used market, particularly as a manual. This specification hits the sweet spot of desirable features, reliability, and running costs without the premium price of top-end models.

Limited edition models like the Sport Black (introduced in 2019) command particularly strong residuals due to their relative scarcity and distinctive styling elements. These can retain up to 70% of their original value after three years in good condition with full service history.

Ownership Cost And Price Value Assessment

Here is the total ownership cost breakdown for the Ford Fiesta (2017-2023):

Competitors

The Honda Jazz (from approximately £6,000 for early third-generation models) occupies a unique position in the used supermini market, bridging the gap between mainstream options and more premium offerings.

On the mainstream side, it competes directly with the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, and the practical Skoda Fabia. When buyers look for exceptional reliability and build quality, they often cross-shop it against the Toyota Yaris, while those prioritizing space might also consider the Nissan Note.

The Jazz also attracts buyers considering the VW Polo and even entry-level versions of the MINI, particularly those who prioritise practicality and reliability over brand cache or driving dynamics.

Honest Strength And Weaknesses

Strengths

• Class-leading 354-1,314 liter boot space with innovative Magic Seats
• Exceptional reliability record with minimal common faults
• Spacious interior with rear passenger room rivaling cars from the class above
• Excellent all-round visibility for confident urban driving
• Strong residual values resulting in lower long-term ownership costs
• Impressive real-world fuel economy across all engine variants
• High-quality interior materials that resist wear exceptionally well

Weaknesses

• CVT transmission can feel strained under hard acceleration
• Infotainment system on pre-2018 models is slow and occasionally glitchy
• Wind noise becomes noticeable at motorway speeds
• Styling may be too conservative for some buyers
• Base models lack some convenience features standard on rivals
• Limited engine choices compared to some competitors
• Firmer ride than some rivals, particularly on larger wheel options

Living With the Car

How Is The Build Quality Of The Volkswagen Tiguan 2016-24

The 2015-2024 Jazz demonstrates Honda’s reputation for solid construction and attention to detail. The cabin materials feel substantial, with soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and upper door panels that have proven remarkably durable over time. Panel gaps are consistent and tight, with minimal movement or flex in the interior components even after years of use.

Post-2018 facelift models show particular improvement in perceived quality, with better damping of controls and more premium-feeling materials throughout the cabin. The fundamental structure is impressively rigid, contributing to the car’s solid feel on the road and helping to minimize squeaks and rattles as it ages.

While not matching premium brands like Audi in terms of luxury materials, the Jazz’s build quality easily surpasses mainstream rivals. The key differentiator is longevity—even high-mileage examples typically maintain their solid feel with minimal deterioration in switchgear or trim pieces, provided they’ve received reasonable care.

Most Comfortable Features

The Jazz excels in everyday comfort through thoughtful design elements. The front seats offer surprisingly good support for a supermini, with adequate side bolstering and good lumbar support making longer journeys comfortable. Higher-spec models feature height adjustment for both front seats—a rarity in this class.

The elevated seating position provides excellent visibility in all directions, reducing driver fatigue and making urban maneuvering less stressful. The dashboard layout places all essential controls within easy reach, with physical buttons and dials for climate functions that can be adjusted without taking eyes off the road.

Ride comfort is best on models with 15-inch wheels, which provide better bump absorption without sacrificing handling precision. The cabin is generally well-insulated from road noise, though some wind noise becomes noticeable around the A-pillars at higher speeds.

We asked our Jazz customers to describe how comfortable their Tiguan is and they came up with the following:

Suspension And Ride Quality

The Jazz’s suspension shows good durability, with most components lasting well beyond 70,000 miles before showing signs of wear. Front shock absorbers typically need attention first, usually between 70,000-90,000 miles, with symptoms including a slight deterioration in ride quality and occasional knocking noises over larger bumps.

The rear torsion beam setup is simpler and even more durable, often lasting the lifetime of the vehicle without issues. Bushes throughout the suspension system hold up well, with the front lower arm bushes typically being the first to show signs of wear around 80,000-100,000 miles on cars frequently driven on poor road surfaces.

Owners report the ride quality remains consistent over time, with only a gradual softening as components age. The Sport models, with their slightly firmer suspension tuning, can feel a touch harsher over broken surfaces but maintain their composure well even as mileage accumulates.

Does It Deteriorate Over Time?

The Jazz demonstrates impressive resilience against age-related deterioration. The suspension components are generally long-lasting, with rubber bushings showing minimal hardening or cracking even after 7-8 years. Regular maintenance makes a substantial difference—a well-cared-for Jazz at 100,000 miles typically rides and handles better than a neglected example with half that mileage.

Interior materials stand up exceptionally well to daily use, with seat fabrics maintaining their appearance and dashboard surfaces resisting the fading and scratching that often affects competitors. Even high-touch areas like the steering wheel and gear lever show minimal wear in properly maintained examples.

How Good Is It For Families?

The Jazz excels as a family car despite its compact external dimensions. The versatile 354-liter boot easily accommodates a full-sized stroller plus shopping bags, while the low loading lip makes it easy to manage heavy items. The 60:40 split Magic Seats offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing either a completely flat load floor or upright storage space for taller items.

Installing child seats is straightforward thanks to clearly marked ISOFIX points and wide-opening rear doors that provide excellent access. The elevated rear bench offers good visibility for children, reducing the likelihood of travel sickness, while the flat floor makes it comfortable for adult passengers too.

Practical touches abound, including multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin, rear door pockets large enough for bottles and snacks, and seat materials that resist stains and are easy to clean—a crucial consideration for families with younger children.

Our Recommendation And Buying Guide

Here are our buying and inspection tips for the Honda Jazz (2015-2024).

Best Spec To Buy

The sweet spot in the range is the 2018-2020 SE or SR trim with the 1.3 i-VTEC engine and manual transmission. This specification offers an excellent balance of equipment, reliability, and running costs without the premium price of top-end models.

For those seeking more engagement, the 1.5 i-VTEC Sport represents the most rewarding Jazz to drive while maintaining all the practical benefits. Post-2018 models benefit from the improved infotainment system and subtle refinements to the ride and handling.

Best Time To Buy

The Jazz market sees less seasonal variation than many models due to its strong reputation for reliability and practicality. However, slightly better deals can often be found in the winter months (November-February) when demand for smaller cars typically dips slightly.

The sweet spot for value is currently 2017-2019 models, which have experienced the steepest depreciation but still offer modern features and technology. Early third-generation examples (2015-2016) represent excellent value for those on tighter budgets, though they miss out on some of the improvements introduced with the facelift.

Final Vertict

The 2015-2024 Honda Jazz represents one of the most sensible, practical, and dependable used car purchases available. Its combination of exceptional space utilization, strong reliability, low running costs, and impressive residual values makes a compelling case for anyone seeking a practical supermini.

While it may lack the driving engagement of a Ford Fiesta or the premium feel of a Volkswagen Polo, the Jazz excels in the aspects that matter most for everyday ownership. The innovative Magic Seats system remains unmatched in the class, offering flexibility that even many larger vehicles can’t match.

Post-2018 facelift models represent the sweet spot in the range, benefiting from improved technology and subtle refinements while maintaining the Jazz’s core virtues. The 1.5 i-VTEC Sport adds a welcome dose of performance and visual appeal without compromising practicality.

For a used car that combines head and heart—offering both rational benefits and the satisfaction of clever design—the third-generation Jazz stands as a benchmark that few competitors can match. It’s a genuine Swiss Army knife of a car that consistently delivers on its promises.