Honda Jazz: How good is the Japanese hatch in 2019?

We all are fully aware of the growing competition in each and every segment of the automobile industry. And this is not just the case here in the Philippines but in most parts of the world. However, a few years ago, things were not as competitive as they are today and this surge in competitiveness has forced car brands to either launch new vehicles or update their older lineup to stay afloat.

Honda Jazz is quite a popular hatchback in the Philippines and it has been around for many years now. It is one of the best that Honda has to offer in the local market. However, the thing is, its long existence could be turning against itself.

There have been new entrants and some really good ones from other famous brands in the segment to challenge Jazz. So, does the Jazz still live up to the expectations? Does it have what it takes to keep fighting? And, how good is this Japanese hatch in 2019? Let us find out in this story.

The Jazz was an attractive looking hatchback even when it was first launched. With its midlife update last year, things have got even better. The latest model of the Jazz still looks splendid with all its embellishments, especially the RS variant. The RS badge really makes a huge difference, doesn’t it?

It adds a sporty layer on the car with its RS designed front grille, front and rear bumper, side sill garnish, tailgate spoiler, gloss black outside rearview mirrors, LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, and 16-inch gloss black alloy wheels.

On the inside, the Jazz provides one of the largest cabin space that you can find in the segment. The comfort level is also decent thanks to the well-bolstered and supportive seats. Of course, the air conditioning helps too and you can even get touch screen controls for that. From a driver’s perspective, the Honda Jazz specs have got paddle shifters and a 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel. Together they might motivate to drive the car a bit more enthusiastically.

Honda has also done a great job in designing the instrument cluster of the Jazz. You might not find this particular element of a car interesting but believe us, a well-designed instrument cluster really makes a huge difference in the overall driving experience; you would be looking at it more than you think you would.

Moving on, the Jazz also has a large 7-inch touch screen infotainment system with support for audio navigation, USB, AUX and Bluetooth. However, it misses out on any kind of smartphone integration option even in its latest avatar.

The Jazz is available in four variants - 1.5 V, 1.5 CVT, 1.5 VX NAVI CVT, and 1.5 RS NAVI CVT - and all of them are powered by the same petrol engine. It is a 1.5-litre unit that produces 120 PS of max power at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm. So, even if you have the range-topping RS variant,

you will get the same number of horses. As far as the transmission is concerned, there is either a 5-speed manual or Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology CVT. Honda has also provided an Eco Button that makes the engine even more efficient.

In terms of safety equipment onboard, the Jazz has got dual front, side, and side curtain SRS airbags, vehicle stability assist, hill start assist, ABS with EBD, and multi-view reverse camera. Note that you do not get all of them as standard and they vary depending on the variant you pick. So, yes, the Jazz does lack in the safety department.

The Honda Jazz is an important product for Honda and the Japanese automaker is very much familiar with the fact. Perhaps, this is the reason why there is a new model coming soon. Reports suggest that Honda will showcase an updated Jazz at the upcoming 2019 Tokyo Motor Show and chances are that we might get to see it in flesh at the 2020 Philippines International Auto Show.

So, the current model of the Jazz in 2019 might be a decent product to buy but it certainly is not the best one in the category. The Honda Jazz price starts at Php 857,000 and goes up to Php 1.08 million. That is a lot of money but if you are a Honda lover then you would not have any issue to spend that much. Or you can still be a sensible Honda lover and wait for the new Jazz to come out and then make a decision. However, if you are a practical person and want to have a hatchback right away then you should consider other options like Toyota Yaris, Mazda 2 Hatchback, etc.

Also Read:- This is what the 2020 Honda Jazz Spoon might look like