Used Honda Jazz Mk3 (2015-2020): 5 Trim Guide And Buying Tips

The third-generation Honda Jazz, produced from 2015 to 2020, stands out in the crowded supermini segment for its remarkable interior versatility and Honda’s renowned durability. This model appeals to buyers seeking a compact car with family-friendly space and low running costs, making it an excellent choice on the used market where prices start around £4,000.

Overview of the Third-Generation Model

Launched in the UK in September 2015, the Mk3 Jazz introduced a more modern exterior design compared to its predecessors, while retaining the core strengths of spaciousness and reliability that define the Jazz nameplate. A facelift in February 2018 refreshed the styling and added a 1.5-litre engine option in the Sport trim. Available with 1.3-litre or 1.5-litre petrol engines, paired with either a six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission, it catered to urban drivers prioritizing ease over excitement.

Honda equipped the Jazz with advanced safety features from launch, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition. The infotainment system featured a seven-inch touchscreen on higher trims, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto post-facelift. These elements helped it secure strong safety ratings, contributing to its appeal for new drivers and families alike.

Interior Space and Practicality

One of the Jazz’s biggest draws is its ingenious use of interior space. Despite its sub-four-meter length, the longer wheelbase of the Mk3 provided generous rear legroom and headroom, surprising even taller passengers. The headline feature remains the ‘Magic Seats’ – fold-flat rear seats that flip up against the side windows to create tall storage spaces or extend the boot floor for flat loads.

Boot capacity starts at 354 litres with seats up, expanding dramatically when folded. This outperforms rivals like the Ford Fiesta (292 litres) and matches larger cars in versatility. The cabin uses durable plastics and a logical layout, with high-mounted gear lever and intuitive controls ensuring ease of use. Dashboard design feels more contemporary than before, blending functionality with subtle gloss black accents.

• Rear passenger space: Ample knee and headroom for adults.
• Magic Seats system: Allows seats to fold flat or ‘tall mode’ for bulky items.
• Boot flexibility: 354-1,314 litres depending on configuration.
• Front storage: Deep door bins and central cubbies.

Engine Options and Performance

Power comes from naturally aspirated petrol engines, eschewing turbos or hybrids found in some competitors. The base 1.3-litre i-VTEC unit produces 101bhp at 6,000rpm and 123Nm at 5,000rpm, prioritizing smoothness over outright pace. Manual versions achieve 0-62mph in 11.2-11.5 seconds depending on trim weight, with a top speed of 118mph. CVT automatics are slower at around 12 seconds.

The facelifted 1.5-litre engine, exclusive to Sport models, offers 129bhp and slightly better acceleration (10.8 seconds to 62mph), but remains unexciting. Fuel economy hovers around 50-56mpg claimed, with real-world figures of 41-44mpg. Both engines require revving for brisk progress, becoming vocal under load.

CO2 emissions range from 110-130g/km, keeping road tax low. The manual gearbox shifts precisely, while the CVT suits relaxed driving but dulls engagement with its rubber-band effect.

Trims and Standard Features

Five main trims were offered: S, SE, SE Navi, EX, and Sport. Even entry-level S models came generously equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, DAB radio, Bluetooth, and safety tech like auto emergency braking.

• S: 15-inch steels, basic audio, auto wipers/lights, stop-start.
• SE: Adds alloys, 7-inch touchscreen, parking sensors, heated mirrors.
• EX: Climate control, rear camera, keyless entry, privacy glass.
• SE Navi/EX Navi: Built-in sat-nav.
• Sport: LED lights, spoilers, sport seats (1.5 engine only).

Higher trims like EX offer the best value used, balancing kit and price. Sport models are scarce due to low sales.

Driving Dynamics and Comfort

The Jazz prioritizes comfort over sportiness, with light steering, compact turning circle, and excellent visibility aiding city driving. Suspension soaks up bumps effectively, though the Sport variant feels firmer. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, but engines drone when pushed.

It’s stable on motorways and composed in corners with reduced body roll versus earlier models, but lacks the feedback of a Ford Fiesta or SEAT Ibiza. Ideal for relaxed commuting, it’s less rewarding for enthusiastic drivers.

Reliability, Running Costs, and Ownership

Honda’s reputation shines here – the Jazz consistently tops reliability surveys with few major issues. Common niggles include occasional CVT glitches and infotainment freezes, but mechanicals are robust. Service intervals are every 12,500 miles, with cheap parts availability.

Used prices: £4,000-£12,000 depending on mileage (aim under 60,000). Insurance groups 13-19 keep premiums reasonable. Tyres and brakes are affordable, enhancing low ownership costs.

Potential Problems and What to Check

Inspect for:

• CVT fluid condition if automatic – avoid droney examples.
• Service history – Honda recommends regular changes.
• Undercarriage rust in salted regions.
• Parking sensor faults on SE+.
• Full MOT history for recalls (e.g., fuel pump).

Test drive for smooth gear changes and no warning lights.

Buying Recommendations

For families: 1.3 EX manual – max space and kit.
For new drivers: 1.3 SE – affordable insurance, safety features.
For style: Rare 1.5 Sport – peppier engine, looks.
Avoid high-mileage CVTs unless impeccably maintained.

Rivals like VW Polo offer refinement, Fiesta fun, but none match the Jazz’s space-efficiency ratio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda Jazz Mk3 reliable?

Yes, it ranks highly in surveys for durability, with minimal breakdowns.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Expect 40-50mpg in mixed driving, better than many rivals.

Are Magic Seats still in the Mk3?

Absolutely, providing unmatched versatility.

Manual or CVT?

Manual for engagement; CVT only if auto needed.

How does it compare to the hybrid Mk4?

Mk3 is cheaper used, petrol-only but simpler mechanically.

Final Thoughts

The Mk3 Honda Jazz delivers peerless practicality in a reliable, efficient package. Perfect for urban life, it’s a sensible used buy that punches above its weight. Prioritize manuals and full service history for hassle-free ownership.(Word count: 1628)