Honda's 'Jazz-y' new addition to the Premier League

​Brentford to the Volkswagen Golf’s Chelsea FC, the Japanese hatchback is an unassuming big-hitter.

Despite its 4.1m length, it boasts a 304-litre boot and ‘Magic’ rear seats that can create a huge space behind the front seats or fold to create a whopping 1,205 litre capacity. Rear legroom is a class-leading 986mm. Even the 40-litre fuel tank exceeds expectations. During our test the Jazz projected 500 miles-plus between fill-ups. Despite an official 51.1mpg fuel economy claim – alongside 105g/km CO2 emissions – I saw over 70mpg indicated in urban driving and over 60mpg on the motorway.

Perhaps only Dacia’s Jogger can touch the £28,145 Jazz Advance Sport tested here for practicality.

Fresh for 2023, the new trim level adds sporty cues to a car lacking kerbside kudos.

A chin spoiler, three-spoke steering wheel with paddle shifters (they control brake regeneration force) and yellow stitching throughout look good. Black and grey synthetic suede and synthetic leather seats look and feel great too.

Honda has increased the power of its e:HEV drivetrain. It will reach 62mph in 9.6 seconds. Two electric motors connect to a 1.5-litre petrol engine to offer a three-pronged approach to propulsion.

Zero-emission progress is possible under gentle acceleration. Push harder and the engine boosts the battery power channelled to the motors and, under heavy, the engine drives the car. The transitions between these modes is seamless.

Advance Sport also introduces firmer suspension. This does not compromise comfort and the Jazz’s handling defies its MPV-like appearance.

A full suite of Honda Sensing safety tech includes adaptive cruise, lane departure and blind spot warnings and traffic sign recognition. Elsewhere, a Core Connectivity package allows owners to lock or unlock the car from their smartphone

More than ever the Jazz is the dark horse of the C-segment. For pure practicality and efficiency, it is in automotive’s Premier League.