2011 Honda Jazz at AIMS

Honda’s 2011 Jazz has hit another high note, with equipment, safety and styling upgrades.

The Jazz created history in Japan at its debut in 2001, becoming Honda’s fastest selling new model, selling over 100,000 units in the first six months. In light of this stellar performance, Jazz won Japan Car of the Year twice, the Auto Express Car of the Year and the New Zealand National Business Review Small Car of the Year.

In Australia, the Jazz impressed the motoring media and was a finalist in the 2002 Wheels Car of the Year award. It went one step further that same year in Queensland, winning the Courier Mail’s Car of the Year award and followed through with Light Car of the Year in 2003.

Launched in Australia almost a decade ago, the Jazz has won many hearts, selling over 50,000 units between November 2002 and May 2008. Buyers all over the world were captivated by the roominess, versatility and outstanding value that Jazz offered.

Capitalising on the strength and success of the original model, the second-generation was introduced to Australia in August 2008 and has proved to be just as popular, with over 23,000 sold.

The new and improved 2011 Jazz receives exterior enhancements across all models including LED tail lights and a sporty, mesh-style grille, resembling a happy face.

Engine choices remain the same, with a frugal 1.3 litre as well as a zippy 1.5 litre model.

The 1.5 litre VTi receives cruise control, revised 15 inch alloy wheels and a full size alloy spare. The VTi and VTi-S share new sporty bumpers, side skirts, fog lamps and a gunmetal grey grille. The VTi-S gains a tailgate spoiler and newly designed 16 inch alloy wheels.

Inside, all models receive a new look satin finish centre dash panel, which houses the audio and heating/cooling system controls, as well as a multi-information display within the speedometre giving fuel consumption, time travelled, trip meters and more.

Jazz now has USB connectivity and A-pillar mounted Bluetooth for the first time.

Safety is of course paramount, with every Jazz in the range receiving front, side and curtain airbags, front and rear seatbelt reminder, multi information display, ABS with Brake Assist and Vehicle Stability Assist.

Importantly, all Jazz models receive a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

Two new colours – Polished Metal and Fresh Lime Green – have been added to the existing palette (Taffetta White, Alabaster Silver, Rallye Red, Cerulean Blue and Crystal Black).