We review the Honda Jazz from price to economy and all its features

IN many ways, the funky Jazz is the Japanese answer to the Fiesta.

Like the Ford, it’s a supermini in name but in reality it’s a little car that’s big on everything — and the latest model gets more of everything.

Funky ... Honda Jazz

The original Jazz was ahead of the Fiesta and every other supermini when it was launched in 2002, with Tardis-like interior space and versatility alongside Honda’s legendary reliability.

It was an instant hit with car buyers and more than 2million have been sold, making it a global sales success.

It’s testimony to the Jazz’s popularity that it remains a big seller.

But Honda accept that rivals have caught up — which is where the new version comes in.

Honda are so confident the car’s design will appeal that they have kept visual changes to a minimum, simply sharpening up the front end with a more Civic nose and increasing the window space.

But the big differences are on the inside and under the bonnet, where the company say they have worked hard to improve the car’s weaker points.

A major priority was improving the Jazz’s ride comfort, especially for rear seat passengers.

There are changes to the suspension and a stiffer body shell, together with added cushioning on the seats. Having tested the car on the poor surfaces of rural English roads, I can confirm it’s a significant improvement. It also handles with a more sporty feel that allows you to push on without losing ride comfort. They’ve also upgraded the 1.2 and 1.4litre engines but, unlike their rivals, there is no diesel option.

The 1.4litre petrol is a strong performer, with economy at just over 50mpg and CO2 emissions reduced to 124g/km. The 1.2 compensates for its lack of poke by returning nearly 55mpg.

Honda have upped the ante on the quality of the interior plastics and trim, although the cabins lacked the freshness and flair of the Fiesta.

But the Jazz is now a shade longer and wider, which increases leg room for drivers and passengers.

Honda believe they have developed the world’s best small car with the new Jazz and, until I drove the Fiesta, I agreed.

But the Ford just pips it — it looks more stylish and has extra magic when it comes to the drive.

The Jazz goes on sale in October with prices expected to start at just under £10,000.