The looks of the new Jazz are evolutionary rather than revolutionary but its profile is sleeker than the car it replaces and features the new-look Honda grille.

This model is longer and wider than its predecessor and apart from contributing to the car's stance has done a lot to improve the interior space. A re-positioned windscreen and additional door windows greatly improve the all-round driver visibility-rectifying a much criticized aspect of the old Jazz. The quality of the cabin fittings are also greatly improved, the seats are more comfortable and offer a greater range of adjustment. The steering column is also now adjustable for reach and rake. The instrumentation and fascia are all newly designed and extremely attractive.

This five-door hatchback comes in three major versions: the top-of-the-line Jazz SV, the Jazz V and the Jazz S. All versions can use E20 fuel and comply with Euro 4 emissions standards.

This version will field the latest i-VTEC-1.5 L (91.5 cu in) engine which can be matched to a manual or automatic transmission. The engine promises dramatically improved performance-with maximum output of 120ps (88 kW) at 6600 rpm, maximum torque 145 Nm at 4800 rpm.

We got very impressive acceleration figures with the car, well within 10 seconds for 0-60 mph but when motoring hard the characteristic Honda transmission whine can be a trifle irritating.
There is no doubt that the Honda designers have worked hard on the chassis to make sure that all this power reaches the road in a usable way. As always, the car's road manners are impeccable. The steering is light and responsive thanks to electric power assistance and a larger rack. This also makes the Jazz easier to park in those awkward restricted spaces. It also has an advanced module audio system, USB port and audio-control switch mounted on the steering wheel.

In what may prove to be a slightly controversial move [for Thailand] the car does not carry a spare wheel. Quality sports cars like Ferraris, Jaguars etc have of course adopted similar stratagems for years. The bulky spare has been replaced by a repair kit. We did not get the opportunity to use this system in anger but we are familiar with the technology. It should work well in most circumstances. On the definite plus side, it allows for an extra 45 litres cubic space in the boot-that's an extra suitcase. This will certainly come in handy for those family visits back home with all the kids on board.

Honda has not built a bad car in living memory. The combination of great style, excellent performance coupled with the legendary Honda reputation for long life and reliability allows us to predict that this new offering will be a huge success. Well done Honda!

For more information contact: Anuphas Vividhkarn Co., Ltd.
Head office 90/8-9 Chaofah Rd. West, Vichit, Muang, Phuket
Tel: 0 7637 1888-9 Fax: 0 7637 1890

Phuket 189/1 Phang-Nga Rd., Muang, Phuket
Tel: 0 7621 4700-1 Fax: 0 7621 3583

Phang-Nga 111 Moo 3, Clokkloy, Takuatung, Phang-Nga
Tel: 0 7658 2204-10 Fax: 0 7658 2201-3
Website www.anuphas.co.th