MIXED emotions can usually be found well to the fore when a particular car model reaches the end of its showroom career.
In most cases the human emotions run high with sadness at its passing and joy at what is to come, for the show must go on, they say.
One of the big pluses at changeover time is the run-out period when all manner of bargains are available in the dealerships as the main event, the launch of the newcomer, approaches.
Currently in this situation is the Honda Jazz which, after a hugely successful period since June 2002 throughout which some 220,000 models were sold in the UK alone, is all set to re-enter the highly competitive world of the supermini in February having adopted a new guise, with more aerodynamically efficient front and rear bumpers and a more premium feel to the cabin.
Ahead of the refreshed supermini’s UK arrival, the Swindon based car giant has declared its hand for the run-out period.
Pricing for the outgoing Jazz has been slashed, the range now opening up at £9,995 for the entry level 1.2 S model and recently I've renewed my acquaintance with all that “original Jazz”.
In the frame here is a Jazz 1.4 EX variant which came in an appealing alabaster silver metallic hue complemented by some very young family serviceable black fabric upholstery.
Throughout its career, flexibility accompanied by surprising amounts of space for its size, has been the watchword for a model which, while being a relatively short member of the supermini sector, offers up some highly impressive interior space.
Within a well thought out cabin the boot is also surprisingly accommodating offering 335 litres of stowage space with all seats taken, which extends to 883 litres.
This comes courtesy of some clever two-way folding rear pews which fold flat at the flick of a switch while places for those bits and bobs accumulated on the run also proved quite plentiful.
Thanks to a good range of tiller and seating adjustment an agreeable driving position is easily arrived at. You also sit pretty high in the Jazz facing a futuristic dashboard boasting some hi-tech instrumentation while overall vision from the driving seat is good.
Powered by Honda’s 1.4-litre petrol engine paired with a five-speed manual gear change Jazz is an easy driver, its 98bhp positively answering the fluency of some sharp throttle response via a well weighted clutch and slick five-speed gearbox.
With suspension a little on the firm side which gives the Jazz its sure footedness, there is also some decent body control and sprightly handling to enjoy while, depending upon individual driving style, 50mpg is promised over the mixed driving miles – not a bad return for petrol power.
Over the past decade the Honda Jazz has deservedly earned a reputation for good build quality plus there are decent levels of standard kit to enjoy which include air con, electric windows all round, electric heated mirrors, panoramic roof with electric sunshade, sound system with CD and steering wheel controls, plus ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist, while good residuals ensure the Jazz keeps its value well.
