The Honda Jazz 1.2 S is the base model in the Jazz range of small hatchbacks, but it is still a worthy contender for a used car purchase. Like most Honda cars, it is very reliable and almost trouble-free in everyday driving. It is also an excellent choice for a city runabout, as its higher-than-expected driving position allows good visibility nearly all round, although I had difficulty seeing well towards the back corners of the car.

There is a surprising amount of space inside for such a small car. Four adults can comfortably travel in the Jazz for short and medium-length journeys, although the rear-seat passenger legroom is not sufficient to allow a trip of hundreds of miles without discomfort. The front seats are okay, but a little bit too short. There is a great deal of headroom, even for quite tall adults, and shoulder room is also good. The Jazz has a huge luggage compartment for its class, which swallows suitcases whole.

In spite of the small 1.2 litre petrol engine, this car does not feel underpowered in most situations. It does have to work quite hard to cruise on the motorway at 70 mph, but it is most likely to be used in town and city conditions, and in those circumstances it feels willing and eager. The five-speed manual gearbox is nothing special, but does not get in the way either, and the engine is extremely quiet when idling.

As you would expect from the base model in the Jazz range, there is not a great level of trim or equipment on this car. The CD player is simple, with no multichanger, though it gives an acceptable quality of sound. There is no sat-nav or air conditioning, and only the front windows are electrically powered. From the outside, however, you cannot tell this, and the car looks cheerful and attractive, especially if painted in a bright metallic colour.

This car is recommended to those looking for a simple but reliable city car that can also manage the occasional longer trip. Because it is quite economical on fuel, the slightly higher cost of initial purchase over a make such as Ford can be made up quite easily. The only problem is that there are not many around at dealers, as they are usually bought very quickly!

Rating: 9