Honda Jazz EX 1.5 i-MMD Hybrid e-CVT (2022) Review

The Honda Jazz has long been a popular choice for those seeking a practical, reliable, and economical small car. With the 2022 Honda Jazz EX 1.5 i-MMD Hybrid e-CVT, Honda has taken this model a step further by adding a self-charging hybrid powertrain that delivers impressive fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a surprisingly spacious interior. But does it have what it takes to stand out in a competitive small car segment? Let’s take a closer look at what makes this model shine.

Whether you’re a city commuter looking for low running costs, a family in need of a practical and spacious second car, or someone who simply values comfort and efficiency, the Jazz delivers.

Hybrid Efficiency: A Powertrain That Exceeds Expectations

Under the hood, the 2022 Honda Jazz EX is powered by a 1.5-liter petrol engine paired with Honda’s i-MMD hybrid system. This self-charging hybrid technology means there’s no need to plug in—the battery recharges itself through regenerative braking and the engine, making it ideal for drivers who want the benefits of hybrid efficiency without the hassle of finding charging stations.

Honda claims a combined fuel economy of 61.4 MPG, a figure that often seems too good to be true in real-world conditions. However, during my time with the car, I found the Jazz regularly outperforming this number, reaching up to 66.7 MPG on longer trips and maintaining solid efficiency even in urban settings. Such strong fuel economy makes the Jazz a standout choice for those looking to minimize their fuel costs.

Interior Comfort and Build Quality: Simple, Durable, and Thoughtfully Designed

Stepping into the 2022 Honda Jazz EX, it’s clear that the focus is on practicality and user-friendly design. The interior materials, while not overly plush, are well put together and feel durable—ideal for a car meant to withstand the daily rigors of family life. The cabin layout is simple and uncluttered, ensuring that everything is within easy reach. Despite its minimalistic approach, the Jazz manages to deliver a premium feel, with high-quality touches in key areas.

The infotainment system is another highlight. Featuring a 9-inch touchscreen, the system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and a wired Android Auto connection as standard. It’s straightforward to use, responsive, and offers ample screen real estate for navigation and other apps. The only minor drawback is that the screen could benefit from being a touch brighter, particularly in direct sunlight.

Space and Practicality: Big Inside, Small Outside

Despite its compact size, the Honda Jazz offers remarkable space inside. With a roomy cabin that can comfortably seat four adults, it punches well above its weight in the small car segment. Headroom and legroom are generous, even for taller passengers. And thanks to Honda’s clever Magic Seat system, the rear seats can be configured in multiple ways to accommodate everything from tall plants to bicycles. This flexibility makes the Jazz ideal for those who need a small car that’s capable of handling a variety of cargo.

In terms of boot space, the Jazz offers 304 litres, which is slightly less than rivals like the Ford Fiesta and Renault Clio. However, when you fold the seats down, the Jazz’s interior transforms into a large and versatile cargo area, perfect for weekend getaways or larger shopping trips. Additionally, the cabin is filled with smart storage solutions, including dual gloveboxes and various cubbies, making it easy to keep things organized on the go.

Driving Experience: Smooth, Refined, and Relaxed

The Jazz’s primary focus is on comfort and ease of driving rather than performance. It won’t win any drag races with its 98 horsepower output and 0-62 mph time of 9.5 seconds, but it delivers more than enough punch for city driving and the occasional highway run. The real star here is the e-CVT gearbox, which has been finely tuned to deliver smooth, almost imperceptible gear changes. This refinement eliminates the “rubber-band” effect often associated with CVTs, making for a serene driving experience.

Around town, the Jazz is exceptionally smooth and easy to handle, with light steering that makes tight turns and parking manoeuvres effortless. On the motorway, it remains quiet and composed, with minimal wind and road noise seeping into the cabin. The Jazz’s excellent forward visibility, aided by a narrow A-pillar design, is another standout feature, making it one of the safest and most confidence-inspiring cars to drive in its class.

Advanced Features and Value: What You Get for Your Money

The Jazz EX comes with an impressive list of standard equipment that puts many rivals to shame. Features include a heated steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, privacy glass, and a comprehensive safety suite with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking.

When considering value, the Jazz may appear slightly more expensive than some competitors. Prices start around £20,000, and this particular EX model is priced at around £24,000. However, the Jazz’s strong build quality, advanced hybrid technology, and generous standard equipment make it a solid investment for those seeking a reliable and well-equipped small car.

Verdict: Is the 2022 Honda Jazz EX Worth It?

The 2022 Honda Jazz EX 1.5 i-MMD Hybrid e-CVT is more than just a small hybrid hatchback—it’s a smart, versatile choice that caters to a wide range of drivers. Whether you’re a city commuter looking for low running costs, a family in need of a practical and spacious second car, or someone who simply values comfort and efficiency, the Jazz delivers.

Yes, it might still carry a reputation as a car for the older generation, but that stereotype is fading fast. The latest Jazz is sleek, modern, and packed with features that appeal to drivers of all ages. While it may come at a slightly higher price point than some rivals, the Honda Jazz justifies this with its unbeatable efficiency, thoughtful interior design, and legendary reliability.

For anyone looking for a small car that stands out in a crowded segment, the Honda Jazz is well worth a test drive. It’s proof that sometimes, the best things do come in small packages.

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