Honda Jazz 2019

The third-generation Honda Jazz was launched in the Philippines in June 2014. It was an all-new model that was aimed to continue the car’s popularity in the market. This version of the Jazz bears the brand’s wing grille, while a new RS variant was added to the lineup for the first time.

The Jazz sits on Honda’s Global Small Car platform, which is shared with several Honda cars. It’s powered by a 1.5L chain drive SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder 16-valve engine with programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI).  This gasoline mill produces 118 hp and 145 Nm of torque sent to the front wheels via the Earth Dreams CVT.

Upfront, the Jazz has independent McPherson struts with stabilizer while the rear is equipped with an H-beam torsion beam, also with stabilizer. Front brakes are ventilated discs while the rear wheels get drums.

Under the Jazz’s hood resides a 118 hp and 145 Nm of torque. These figures are more than enough for the Jazz’s weight and is at the top of the subcompact hatchback class. The Earth Dreams CVT translates the power to the front wheels without indecision, and there’s no noticeable lag when coming off from a complete stop. The reaction is quick; even varying accelerator inputs are welcome.

Handling-wise, the Jazz is stable at the most parts plus maneuverability is one of its strongest traits because of its wide driving visibility and weight but light steering feel. Its firm suspension is perfect in tackling winding roads easily, as well.

Standard among the top-tier variants of the Honda Jazz is a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, USB, Bluetooth, and HDMI connectivity. Sound is sent to six speakers. The air-conditioning system has touch panel controls while vehicle entry is through a keyless system.

The current-generation Jazz conforms to the design language and carries the brand’s wing grille. The RS variants is aggressively styled, with additional carbon-fiber-printed kits to boost the hatchback’s sporty appeal. A set of 16-inch black alloys complements the Jazz RS’ design. The Jazz is primarily equipped with projector halogens except for the top RS variant that has LED headlights with LED guide lines.

Color options for the Honda Jazz are Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic, Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic, Phoenix Orange Pearl, Rallye Red, and Taffeta White.

The Jazz's interior is one of the most spacious in its class. It uses Honda's straightforward layout with all the controls easily accessible by the driver. Hard plastics can be found inside the cabin but the RS trim has sporty accents and red stitching all over. Fabric upholstery is standard for the range. Among the best traits of the Jazz is its flexible seating configuration that allows you to maximize its interior cabin space. Probably its most famous selling point is the capability to accommodate a surfboard inside the car, provided that the seats and backrests are folded accordingly.

You’ll love the power delivery of the Jazz while consuming less fuel. Its flexible seating configuration is also a good thing to have as it maximizes the cabin space that this hatchback offers. Lastly, the Jazz, even in its non-RS trim, is still one of the best-looking among its rivals.

On the other hand, the Jazz’s firm suspension might be something you wouldn’t want when on a plight over unforgiving Metro Manila streets. The cabin NVH insulation also needs a bit of improvement.