The Good: Flexibility in a small package, reliability
The Bad: Firm ride and wind noise intrudes the cabin
The Say: An all around vehicle hampered by imperfections.
Go For: 1.5 V
Avoid: 1.5 V Mugen
Price Range: P350,000-P580,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - Honda Jazz (2008-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Jazz
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2011
2011-2014
Vehicle Overview
The second generation Jazz, which was introduced in August 2008 as a 2009 model locally, offers a longer wheelbase and a wider profile while the cabin gets more larger but trunk space is smaller. This model signaled the drop of the CVT transmission (a conventional automatic was used here, although it was reverted back for the third generation) and the i-DSi engine.
As mentioned earlier, the exterior dimensions grew larger although its height remained the same. The growth in size translated for more space for humans but lost some trunk space. The famed three cargo configuration modes are retained and there is no need to push the front seats forward to give way for the rear headrests, just release the locks and push the seats which results to a flat cargo space.
While the occupants get great visibility, it is still the same old Jazz you got to know which has that easy to drive personality and fun to steer dynamics. Unlike the previous model, this one has an all VTEC technology engine line-up that gives both the 1.3 and 1.5 more grunt. Choosing the 1.3 will require you to push the pedal harder to have decent acceleration and going for the 1.5 doesn't have any drama when accelerating. If you aim for a manual for the 1.5, better luck next time my friend since there is none for this generation.
What Should I Get
You'll mostly encounter two variants during your Jazz search: the S and V. Going for the S gives you the 99hp 1.3 engine, all power features, dual airbags, ABS brakes, CD player with MP3 and auxiliary function, rear wiper, alarm with immobilizer, keyless entry. V models add a 118hp 1.5 engine, side mirror signal repeaters, and folding side mirrors to distinguish from its lowly brother. An update in March 2011 added USB function for all models and for the V these exclusive goodies like fog lamps and paddle shifters. A limited edition V EX was introduced in February 2012 which was imported from Japan (late 2011 saw Honda's plant in Thailand flooded) and has features that aren't available among local models including a cruise control, glovebox cooler, and steering wheel controls. Mugen and Modulo body kits were made as an extra cost option for the V from August (Mugen) and December (Modulo) 2012 respectively
How Much Would It Cost Me
If the previous model was plagued of the CVT issues, fear not as you don't need to worry for one plus keeping this baby is on the average range of rivals. Since this has more power and torque than before plus the rev-happy characteristic of this vehicle means fuel consumption is high. Common problems that this generation of Jazz face include the starter system which makes has the tendency of starting the engine difficult especially when the vehicle is shut down for a short time and a weak alternator.
Watch out for the different recalls which were issued for this vehicle, since you must look out if these were performed, and these include a spring that causes friction resulting to stalling or engine failure (for 1.5 models assembled between August 2008 to April 2010, issued last February 2011) and suspected defect in the driver side airbag's deflator (2009 to 2011 assembled models issued last September 2015 and 2012 to 2014 assembled models issued last March 2016).
