Honda Jazz II (GE) (2008 – 2015)

Reliability score : 9.2/10

Honda Jazz II (GE Generation) / Honda Fit IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION REGARDING DIESEL: As an expert, I must correct a common misconception: Honda has NEVER offered a diesel engine on the Jazz (neither on the GE generation nor on any other). Honda's policy for this segment has always favored naturally aspirated petrol (VTEC) and hybridization (IMA). This report will therefore cover the entirety of the engines actually produced. The Honda Jazz II (known as Fit in Japan and the Americas) is a versatile city car (B-segment) with the appearance of a small MPV. It is famous for its interior ingenuity, particularly its renowned Magic Seats (fold-up rear seats) and its boot volume worthy of the segment above (399 liters). Launched in late 2008 in Europe and facelifted in 2011 (return of the CVT gearb

✅ Strengths

Exceptional mechanical reliability (chain-driven engines)
Record interior space for its size (3.90 m)
Unbeatable modularity (Magic Seats)
Boot volume (399L, worthy of a compact car)
Excellent peripheral visibility (large glass surfaces)
Overall very low maintenance cost

⚠️ Weaknesses

Total absence of diesel engine (for high-mileage drivers)
Poor soundproofing (wind and road noise on the motorway)
Very firm suspension comfort (especially at the rear)
Catastrophic driving pleasure with the i-SHIFT automated manual gearbox (2008-2011)
Thin paint, susceptible to stone chips and micro-scratches
Hard interior plastics, susceptible to scratches

🎯 Verdict

Expert's Verdict The Honda Jazz II (GE) is one of the most reliable used cars in the world. If you are looking for a utilitarian, spacious, indestructible, and economical vehicle, it is an excellent choice. Regarding diesel: Don't look for it, it doesn't exist. But the i-VTEC petrol engines are so economical (5.5 to 6.5 L/100km) and so reliable that the absence of diesel is a long-term advantage (no DPF, no high-pressure injectors, no turbo to replace). Buying advice: ABSOLUTELY AVOID the 1.4 versions equipped with the i-SHIFT automated manual gearbox (2008-2011) which spoil the driving experience and are expensive in terms of clutch replacement. BUY a 1.2 or 1.4 manual gearbox version with your eyes closed. If you want an automatic, prioritize facelifted models (post-2011) equipped with the CVT gearbox or the IMA Hybrid version, provided that the gearbox maintenance has been rigorous.