The 1.2-litre petrol engine provides reasonable performance despite its modest power output. The 1.4 petrol offers useful extra pace as well as decent fuel economy and low emissions. Both engines provide reasonable pick-up from urban speeds, but need to be worked hard to get the best from them.
Decent body control means the Jazz is a spirited drive, although the steering is light and short of feel. Firm suspension gives the Jazz its sure-footedness, but also a rather stiff ride. Revisions have improved things since the car’s launch, but youl still feel bumps too easily. The optional CVT auto ’box is excellent and provides seamless power delivery.
Both engines become rather noisy when extended and are audible at motorway pace. Wind and road noise also intrude at higher speeds, but there’s a lovely fluency about every major control – not just individually but in the way the clutch, gearbox, brakes and throttle work together.
