Honda Jazz hatchback (2007-2015) - Interior & comfort

A logical layout makes up for a lack of style, but the Honda Jazz doesn’t have some of the latest in-car technology.

Inside, the Honda Jazz favours function over form, with a simple, easy-to-use layout that has none of the style – some would say fuss – of more modern superminis.

Honda Jazz dashboard

The stylish instruments look good, and the controls on the steering wheel and dashboard work well and are easy to reach. While the infotainment system might look okay, it's often painful to use, thanks to too many small buttons to push on the screen to get through menus. At times it seems counter-intuitive.

Where rivals have moved on to large touchscreens, the Jazz retains its buttons and switches. These operate precisely and feel built to last, as you'd expect from Honda, yet they only add to the impression that the car has fallen behind the class-leaders.

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Still, the driving position is excellent. Everything feels solidly put together, even if the quality of some of the plastics leaves a little to be desired. And wherever you’re sitting, you should find the car comfortable, with more head and legroom than the compact dimensions suggest, plus rear seats that recline.

Honda Jazz equipment

The Jazz doesn’t just trail in terms of interior design. It also misses out on a lot of the in-car technology found in newer models in this class. While the likes of the Ford Fiesta and Nissan Note offer kit such as a Bluetooth phone connection and even voice control on most models, only the top-spec EX and HX Hybrid versions of the Jazz have Bluetooth as standard. Otherwise it’s part of an expensive Technology Pack upgrade (including sat nav), for around £1,000.

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An aftermarket portable navigation system, complete with hands-free connectivity, seems a better-value solution. You’re stuck if you want voice control, though; it isn’t even available as an option on the Honda.

Entry-level S models are sparsely equipped – they don’t even have air-con or electronic stability control as standard. And while SE trim brings climate control, the mid-range Jazz ES Plus probably offers the best balance of kit and value, as it features a leather gearstick and steering wheel, plus electric rear windows, rear privacy glass and a cooled glovebox. This version also benefits from steering wheel controls for the stereo, as well as a USB port, allowing drivers to plug in their smartphone or MP3 player to listen to their digital music on the move.

Honda Jazz options

If you want to add options, Honda prefers you to upgrade to a higher spec; it offers a limited range of extras at each spec level, and some of them seem expensive, with leather upholstery coming in at over £1,000. Official accessories are also available, although again these look a bit on the pricey side.