One favourite returns; one is updated

These are busy times at Honda dealers. There is no let-up in the arrival of new models. The latest to break cover are the new Honda Jazz and the return of a massive favourite, the Honda HR-V.
The new-look Jazz continues as a perfect city car but now has a much more youthful appearance, while the returning HR-V is a classic supermini SUV which is extremely stylish whilst remaining utterly practical.

Previous HR-V owners will recognise the Tardis effect. The interior is spacious and, thanks to what Honda refers to as ‘Magic Seats’ in the rear which flop down to produce a good sized, flat load area, it will double-up as a 5-door hatchback and an estate. It even has a coupé appearance thanks to the swoopy rear roof line.

At the moment, there are two engine options in the HR-V. You can choose from a brand new 128bhp 1.5 litre petrol unit or 118bhp 1.6 litre diesel. Both come with a 6-speed manual ‘box; the petrol engine gets a CVT auto option. There is no 4-wheel drive version for the simple reason that Honda reckon that front wheel drive is the most popular setup for this type car in the UK market.

Prices and running costs? £17,995 gets you into the entry-level S petrol model, rising to £24,945 for the flagship EX diesel. Every models gets a load of safety kit plus goodies such as climate control, cruise control and auto headlights. As for which version to go for, we’d recommend the diesel SE which costs £21,495. You get extra kit and, with the diesel engine, you’ll get around 70mpg and £20 road tax.

Of course, you may prefer the familiar city car lines of the new Honda Jazz which starts off at a tempting £13,495. How do £10 road tax and around 60mpg sound to you? That’s what you’ll get from the 1.3 litre petrol engine. All Jazz models come with goodies such as air con, DAB, auto lights, cruise control, Bluetooth and auto wipers.

So, two new favourites from Honda. Some things haven’t changed though; burst-proof reliability, strong secondhand value, and a long warranty.

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