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varying outputs and there are manual or auto gearboxes, both 6-speed. While prices start at £20,715, my upper-range R Design
version with 120 hp 2.0 litre diesel engine, 6-speed manual transmission and laden with extra features costs £27,015. This model gets a different front grille, larger alloy wheels, sports upholstery and aluminium detailing among additional kit which all help give it a more distinctive and more potent appearance. It has a 0-60 mph time of 10.5
seconds - not that quick in its class - and a top speed of 118 mph. However, it does offer stand-out fuel economy of 78.5 mpg combined and stamps its green credentials with just 94 g/km emissions. underway, the V40 proves nimble and assured, with
THE V40 PROVES NIMBLE AND ASSURED, WITH COMPOSED HANDLING AND DECENT RIDE COMFORT
When it comes to practicality, the V40 is fairly typical of the family hatchback class with adequate occupant space in the rear for all but the tallest. Bootspace is 335 litres, expandable to 1,032 litres with seats folded down – and unlike some in the sector, they do fold flat. Safety has always been a Volvo strong point and it still among best- in-class with features including seven airbags and a City Safety system which autonomously helps you avoid low-speed accidents. In the cabin, use of soft-touch
materials gives an immediate impression of quality, the seats are well-made for both comfort and good back support, and the ‘floating’ centre console design gives the dashboard
composed handling and decent ride comfort even on the R Design version which has stiffer suspension. The car never feels as sporty as it looks but there is no denying its low-slung lines deliver a charismatic street image.
HONDA Jazz EX Navi
HONDA’S JAZZ HATCHBACK HAS BEEN AROUND SINCE 2001 AND HAS BUILT UP A DEVOTED FOLLOWING BECAUSE OF ITS EASY DRIVABILITY, PRACTICAL LAYOUT AND ULTRA- RELIABLE REPUTATION. However, that fond appreciation was largely among older buyers, which rather limited its UK sales potential. But not any more. The third-generation Jazz has sharper, more youthful styling and more connectivity features which should help expand sales lower down the age-scale. The current Jazz has smoother styling though it still
retains a sort of micro-MPV look which is underlined by a spacious and versatile cabin which outscores main rivals such as the Ford Fiesta and VW Polo. A big plus-point is its Magic Seat system which offers extensive occupant and load configurations and delivers the largest interior space in the sector. Jazz prices start at £13,995 for a decently-kitted s model
but to get goodies such as alloy wheels, touchscreen infortainment system, parking sensors and sat-nav you have to move up range and my top-spec test car, an EX Navi, costs £17,065. Like all Jazz models, it uses a 1.3 litre 101 hp petrol
engine with standard manual gearbox (a CVT auto version is available) with a 0-60 mph time of 11.5 seconds and top speed of 118 mph. Fuel economy is 55.4 mpg combined. There are cars from rival makers which are a bit cheaper, quicker or offer better economy, but not by much, and the Jazz counters with more space, an outstanding reliabity record and strong resale values. The non-turbo Jazz isn’t quick off the mark but it does
drive in a civilised and user-friendly manner which for most buyers will be much more important. It offers a nice easy drive, good seating, good visibility, and is agile in traffic and when parking. Revised suspension means you
get a comfortable ride and assured handling. Visual image is important even in the hatchback sector and Honda has added sporty styling touches to the Jazz, revising the grille and headlights and sculpting the body to give stronger presence. There are also optional personalisation packages to subtly tweak the styling or add extra features. The dashboard is thoughtfully laid out for ease of use, and the centre touchscreen is quick and easy to operate. The cabin has a durable appearance with use of quality trim materials. One aspect which will impress buyers is the interior
space which provides plenty of room for four or even five adults, and big boot space - 354 litres boosted to a remarkable 1,314 litres with instant drop-down rears seats which lie completely flat. Its hard to find any negatives about the Jazz. some say
offering only one engine is a downside but most Jazz sales are to private buyers who don’t do enough mileage to justify a diesel. Overall, the latest Jazz really impresses and while
offering more youthful appeal, still retains all the core features loyal Honda buyers enjoy.
a more imposing look than you tend to get in most hatchbacks. My only minor quibble is that cabin stowage space for oddments is rather limited. All in all, the V40 adds up to an appealing package,
particularly for those seeking to be seen in something a little different.
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