Honda has righted a wrong with the facelifted Jazz, by returning the automatic option to the CVT gearbox that was replaced by the firm’s i-shift auto when the new Jazz was launched in October 2009.

The firm said a lot of customers “didn’t get on” with the new auto, so when the time came to refresh the range, the CVT has returned, only now more efficient than the i-shift that was originally brought in because it was at the time the more efficient option. Honda says around 40% of petrol Jazz registrations are with an automatic gearbox, so the new one, with 51.4mpg fuel economy and 128g/km of CO2, as well as good residual values, offers impressive operational costs.

To drive, the CVT is a little sluggish from a standstill, but fine when on the move, while the Jazz ride is a little fidgety. However, interior space, storage and flexibility continues to be the car’s trump card.

Honda Jazz 1.4 CVT EX
P11D price £15,490
Model price range £11,295-£19,305
Fuel consumption 51.4mpg
CO2 (tax) 128g/km (15%)
BIK 20/40% per month £39/£77
Service interval variable miles
Insurance (1-50) group tbc
Warranty 3yrs/90,000mls
Boot space 335litres
Engine size/power 1339cc/99hp
Top speed/0-62mph 113mph/13.1secs
On sale Late 2010
Score 7/10
Verdict Decent addition that will
likely find most popularity
in public sector fleets