Note vs Jazz Costs Ireland: Key Price Differences
The Honda Jazz costs a lot more than the Nissan Note. The Jazz is about $4,000 pricier than the Note in similar markets.
Depreciation and resale values swing quite a bit between these Honda and Nissan models in Ireland.
Typical Purchase Prices for Jazz and Note
If you’re looking at Ireland, the Honda Jazz always lands in a higher price bracket than the Nissan Note. Even the cheapest Jazz is roughly €3,000 more expensive than rivals like the Skoda Fabia, which says a lot about Honda’s pricing strategy.
New Car Price Ranges (Republic of Ireland):
- Honda Jazz: €24,500 – €31,000
- Nissan Note: €21,000 – €27,500
If you compare hybrid versions, the gap gets wider. The Jazz Hybrid usually comes in €2,500-€4,000 above the Note’s e-POWER.
Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives, points out, “The Jazz’s higher purchase price reflects Honda’s focus on build quality and safety systems, but Irish buyers need to weigh this against the Note’s better value proposition.”
In Northern Ireland, the trend stays the same. The Jazz costs £2,000-£3,500 more than a comparable Note. Both brands offer similar finance deals at their dealerships.
Cost Comparison for New vs Used Models
Used prices tell a different story. Three-year-old Jazz models keep about 55-60% of their original value, while the Note usually holds on to 50-55%.
Typical Used Prices (3 years old, 60,000km):
- Honda Jazz: €14,500 – €18,000
- Nissan Note: €12,000 – €15,500
Yes, the Jazz keeps its value better, which helps balance out the higher price tag in the long run. Still, the Note’s lower upfront cost makes it more attractive if you’re on a tight budget.
Insurance costs usually favour the Note. Most Note variants sit 1-2 groups lower than the Jazz, which means you could save €150-€300 a year—especially if you’re a younger driver.
Financing lines up with the purchase price, too. Jazz monthly payments are usually €50-€80 more than the Note on a standard PCP deal.
Resale Value and Depreciation Trends
Honda’s reputation for reliability helps the Jazz keep its value better than the Note. Market numbers show the Jazz loses about 18-20% of its value each year, while the Note drops 20-22%.
Five-Year Depreciation Comparison:
- Honda Jazz: Keeps 35-40% of its original value
- Nissan Note: Holds 30-35%
Hybrid versions from both brands do a bit better. The Jazz Hybrid’s e system seems to attract eco-minded buyers, so it holds value better than regular petrol models.
Where you live in Ireland matters, too. Dublin and Cork buyers seem to prefer the Jazz for its premium feel, but in the countryside, people often go for the Note’s practicality and lower running costs.
Dealerships are pretty sparse outside big towns, which makes trading in or servicing either car a bit of a pain for rural owners.
Running Costs Comparison: Jazz vs Note
Running costs really set the Honda Jazz and Nissan Note apart. The Note’s diesel option can hit up to 80mpg, while the Jazz hybrid maxes out at 63mpg.
Insurance varies between the two, and maintenance costs reflect how each brand handles reliability.
Fuel Efficiency in Irish Conditions
The Nissan Note definitely comes out on top for fuel economy. The 1.5-litre diesel Note manages an impressive 80mpg, which is hard to beat for Irish commutes. Even the petrol 1.2 Note does better than Honda’s engines.
The Honda Jazz doesn’t really shine for fuel consumption. The petrol engines—both 1.2 and 1.4—tend to use more fuel than the Note’s equivalents.
If you want better economy from Honda, the hybrid Jazz is your best bet at 63mpg (claimed). That 1.3-litre battery-assisted engine is Honda’s most frugal option. The hybrid system sits under the floor, so you don’t lose boot space.
For anyone driving long distances, the Note’s diesel can save you quite a bit. With current fuel prices, that efficiency could mean hundreds of euros saved every year.
Ciaran Connolly says, “The Note’s diesel engine delivers real-world fuel economy that’s particularly suited to Irish driving patterns, where motorway commuting is common.”
Routine Maintenance and Servicing Costs
Honda has a solid reputation for reliability. The Jazz feels sturdy—no rattles or squeaks—which usually means you won’t spend as much on repairs down the line. Honda’s petrol engines are known for their reliability.
Jazz service intervals are competitive. The hybrid system doesn’t need much extra attention, just the usual checks. Honda dealers in Ireland tend to keep service pricing pretty standard.
Nissan keeps servicing costs reasonable for both petrol and diesel Notes. The 1.2-litre petrol is a simple three-cylinder, which should make maintenance straightforward. The diesel follows standard intervals.
You’ll find parts for both cars easily enough in Ireland. The Jazz has been around longer, so parts supply is pretty well sorted. The Note’s newer design uses updated components that might last longer.
Both brands offer service packages, which can help you budget your yearly car costs.
Insurance Premiums and Variations
Insurance depends a lot on engine and trim. The Jazz usually lands in good insurance groups thanks to Honda’s safety record and lower theft rates.
The Note’s insurance group shifts between petrol and diesel. The more powerful diesels can cost a bit more to insure, and the Note’s slightly larger size can nudge up the group rating.
Insurers tend to like both models since they appeal to careful drivers. The Jazz’s safety record helps, and the Note’s modern safety gear does too.
If you’re a younger driver, you might notice a difference. The Jazz’s family-friendly image can help with premiums, while the Note’s newer safety features also score points with insurers.
Where you live in Ireland affects things, too. City drivers in Dublin or Cork will pay higher premiums, no matter which car they pick.
Road Tax and Regulatory Costs in Ireland
Motor tax in Ireland can vary a lot between the Honda Jazz and Nissan Note. Tax rates depend on CO₂ emissions for cars registered after July 2008, or engine size for older ones.
Both cars usually fall into mid-range tax bands, but the exact cost depends on the engine and when the car was registered.
Annual Road Tax Bands for Jazz
The Honda Jazz lands in different tax bands based on CO₂ emissions. Most models emit between 110-130g/km of CO₂.
The 1.3-litre petrol Jazz usually puts out about 120g/km, so you’ll pay €200 a year in motor tax for 2025.
Go for a hybrid Jazz and you’ll do a bit better. The e hybrid drops emissions to around 108g/km, lowering your tax to €180.
Older Jazz models (pre-July 2008) use engine size for tax. The 1.3-litre costs €356 a year, and the 1.4-litre will set you back €420.
Honda Jazz Tax Rates:
- 1.3 Petrol (post-2008): €200 annually
- 1.3 Hybrid: €180 annually
- 1.3 Engine (pre-2008): €356 annually
- 1.4 Engine (pre-2008): €420 annually
Road Tax Rates for Note Models
The Nissan Note uses emissions-based tax rates for cars registered after July 2008. Most Notes put out between 115-135g/km of CO₂.
The standard 1.2-litre Note usually emits around 125g/km, which puts it in the €200 tax band.
The Note e-POWER hybrid drops emissions down to about 95g/km, so that’s €180 a year.
Older Notes (before July 2008) pay by engine size. The 1.4-litre costs €420, and the 1.6-litre jumps to €472.
Ciaran Connolly mentions, “The Note’s hybrid technology can save drivers €20 annually in motor tax compared to conventional petrol variants, though the real savings come from reduced fuel consumption.”
Impact of Emissions and Engine Size on Taxation
Both cars benefit from Ireland’s emissions-based tax system that rewards cleaner engines. If your car’s registered after July 2008, CO₂ decides your annual tax.
Engine size hits older models harder. For example, a 1.6-litre Note from 2007 costs €472 a year, but a similar 2010 model with lower emissions only costs €200.
WLTP testing now applies for cars registered after January 2021. This new method usually shows higher emissions than the old NEDC test, which can bump some cars into pricier tax bands.
Tax Band Comparison:
| Emissions Range | Annual Cost | Typical Models |
|---|---|---|
| 101-110g/km | €180 | Jazz Hybrid, Note e-POWER |
| 111-120g/km | €200 | Standard Jazz 1.3 |
| 121-130g/km | €200 | Standard Note 1.2 |
You can pay tax monthly at 10% of the annual rate, but that ends up costing a bit more than paying for the whole year upfront.
Fuel Efficiency: Real-World Jazz and Note Performance
The Honda Jazz hybrid claims up to 63mpg, while the Note’s diesel can hit 80mpg. That’s a big difference in running costs. Petrol versions from both brands usually get around 50-55mpg in everyday driving.
Jazz Petrol and Hybrid Consumption
Jazz petrol engines don’t really impress for fuel economy these days. The 1.2 S model manages 53.3mpg with CO₂ emissions of 123g/km.
The 1.4-litre petrol gives you a bit more power for motorway trips, but fuel use is about the same. Both engines use Honda’s i-VTEC tech, but city driving can really bump up fuel consumption.
Jazz Hybrid Performance:
- Claimed economy: 63mpg
- Real-world figures: 55-58mpg typical
- Best for: Urban driving with frequent stops
Ciaran Connolly says, “The Jazz hybrid works well in Irish city centres where stop-start traffic maximises battery assistance, but don’t expect the claimed 63mpg on motorway runs.”
The hybrid setup pairs a 1.3-litre petrol with an electric motor. Honda fits the battery under the floor, so you keep all your boot space.
Note Petrol and Diesel Economy
Nissan Note’s diesel engine hits an impressive 80mpg. That makes it a lot more efficient than any Jazz variant, honestly. The 1.5-litre dCi unit really changes the game for drivers who rack up lots of miles.
If you go for the Note’s 1.2-litre petrol three-cylinder engine, you’ll see around 50-55mpg. You can pick either manual or CVT automatic, but the manual usually squeezes out a bit more from every litre.
Note Engine Comparison:
| Engine | Economy | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2 Petrol | 50-55mpg | Light urban driving |
| 1.5 Diesel | 75-80mpg | High mileage/motorway |
The diesel Note shines on long journeys. Once the engine warms up, it really delivers. Petrol models make more sense if you drive less than 12,000 miles per year.
Fuel Costs Over Typical Irish Mileages
Fuel costs can swing quite a bit depending on your routine. I ran the numbers using Irish prices: €1.55 per litre for petrol and €1.45 for diesel.
Annual Fuel Costs (15,000 miles):
- Jazz 1.2 petrol: €1,580
- Jazz Hybrid: €1,420
- Note 1.2 petrol: €1,530
- Note 1.5 diesel: €1,150
The Note diesel can save you about €430 a year compared to the Jazz petrol. Multiply that over three years, and you’re looking at €1,290 in fuel savings.
If you don’t drive much—say, 8,000 miles a year—the savings shrink to about €230 per year. The diesel Note still wins on efficiency, but the difference isn’t as dramatic for city-only drivers.
Motor tax also comes into play. The most efficient models land in lower CO2-based tax bands in Ireland, so you’ll pay less each year.
Practicality and Usability for Irish Drivers
Both the Honda Jazz and Nissan Note offer a ton of space for superminis. The Jazz gets a clever edge with its Magic Seats, while the Note sticks with a bigger, more traditional boot. Each car finds its own way to make the most of interior practicality.
Interior Space and Seating Configurations
The Honda Jazz surprises with its roomy cabin. I’ve noticed the tall roofline makes it feel open and bright—sometimes it feels bigger than it actually is.
Adults fit comfortably in the back of both cars. Nissan Note gives real legroom even for tall folks. You can slide the Note’s rear seats forward or back, so you can pick between more space for people or luggage.
The Jazz answers back with its wide windscreen and great visibility. Thin A-pillars help cut down on blind spots. Both hatchbacks fit five, but the middle seat in the back is really best for kids.
“Irish families particularly value the Note’s sliding rear seats—you can optimise space for Tesco runs or visiting grandparents without compromise,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
Boot Capacity and Versatility
The Note takes the win on boot space. With the seats up, you get 325 litres—push them forward, and it jumps to 411 litres. That’s on par with bigger cars like the Focus or Golf.
If you fold the seats, cargo space maxes out at 2,012 litres. The boot floor sits pretty low, so loading bags or gear isn’t a hassle.
The Jazz doesn’t have as much boot space on paper—about 298 litres—but it makes up for it with smart storage spots. The loading lip sits higher, so heavier stuff is a bit more awkward to lift.
What the Jazz really nails is cabin storage. You get deep cupholders and a handy double-level glovebox for all your odds and ends.
Magic Seats vs Note’s Flexible Layout
Honda’s Magic Seats turn the Jazz into something close to a mini van. Flip the rear seat bases up, and you get a tall space for bikes or big plants.
Or, you can fold the seat backs flat for a long, level load area. This double-fold setup is genuinely versatile—most hatchbacks can’t match it.
The Note keeps things simple with sliding and folding rear seats. It’s not as flashy as Magic Seats, but it’s super easy to use day-to-day. You can quickly switch between more room for passengers or cargo without a fuss.
Both systems really suit Irish life, whether you’re squeezing into a Dublin parking spot or packing up for a weekend in Cork.
Driving Experience: Handling and Steering Compared
The Honda Jazz feels sharper behind the wheel, while the Nissan Note leans into comfort and simplicity. Both work well on Irish roads, but they go about it in their own way. Ride quality matters here.
Steering Feel and Manoeuvrability
Honda Jazz gives you more precise steering. The current model’s steering setup feels sharper, and you notice less body roll. The wheel has a nice weight and responds quickly.
Nissan Note goes for lighter, easier steering. People call it “light, springy and entirely free from feel”. That makes it a breeze for city driving and tight parking.
Both cars turn easily in narrow streets. The Jazz measures 4.04 metres, the Note 4.10 metres. Neither feels bulky in a car park.
“The Honda Jazz’s improved steering feedback makes it more engaging on winding Irish country roads, though the Note’s lighter setup reduces driver fatigue in heavy traffic,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
Comfort on Irish Roads
Irish roads can be brutal—potholes, bumps, you name it. The Nissan Note soaks up rough patches surprisingly well. Reviews mention “potholes and speed bumps don’t tend to throw the wheel about as much as other competitors, such as the Honda Jazz”.
The Honda Jazz takes a firmer approach. Some say the ride feels “harsh” on rougher surfaces, especially the Crosstar version. The standard Jazz is more comfortable than the Crosstar, though.
Both cars give you great visibility. The Note’s higher driving position, big windows, and large mirrors make it easy to spot cyclists or pedestrians in busy towns.
Ride Quality for Urban and Rural Journeys
Urban Performance:
- Honda Jazz: Firm but controlled, with good cornering
- Nissan Note: Softer ride, prioritising comfort
Rural Road Behaviour: The Jazz handles twisty roads with more confidence. Its stiffer suspension keeps body lean in check, and the steering gives you enough feedback for longer drives.
The Note goes for comfort instead of sportiness. Its ride is “quite firmly damped,” but after a bump, the “return-spring motion can be a little sudden”. Passengers will probably like this more than drivers who want excitement.
Noise Levels: Both cars keep things quiet enough. The Note controls wind and tyre noise well, while the Jazz benefits from Honda’s recent work on cabin soundproofing.
If comfort is your top priority on Ireland’s bumpy roads, the Note might be your pick. But if you want a bit more fun while driving, the Jazz stands out for its handling.
Engine Options and Emissions Impact
Engine choices really shape your running costs and tax bill in Ireland. The Jazz leans into hybrid efficiency, while the Note gives you petrol and diesel options.
Honda Jazz Petrol and Hybrid Engines
Irish buyers get two main Jazz engines. The regular 1.5-litre petrol puts out 121 bhp and does a decent job on fuel.
Go hybrid, and you get a 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol paired with an electric motor. This combo delivers 108 bhp and even better fuel economy.
Honda’s hybrid system can go up to 885km on a full tank, with CO2 as low as 82g/km. That puts it in Band A1 for Irish motor tax—just €120 a year.
The petrol-only Jazz usually gets 50-55 mpg in everyday use. Emissions run between 110-130g/km, so you’re looking at Band A2 or A3 for tax.
“The Jazz hybrid’s low emissions make it especially appealing for Irish buyers worried about fuel prices and carbon taxes,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
Nissan Note Petrol and Diesel Options
The Nissan Note keeps things classic with petrol and diesel engines. The 1.2-litre petrol delivers 80 bhp—great for city trips.
Experts call the Note practical and economical, especially with the diesel. The 1.5-litre dCi diesel pushes out 90 bhp, and it’s got more torque for the motorway.
The diesel Note gets about 65-70 mpg in mixed driving. CO2 sits between 95-115g/km, so it’s Band A1 or A2 for tax.
Petrol Notes see 45-50 mpg and 120-140g/km emissions, which means Band A2 or A3 and slightly higher annual tax than the diesel or Jazz hybrid.
CO2 Emissions Breakdown
Emissions comparison for Irish motor tax:
| Model | CO2 (g/km) | Tax Band | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jazz Hybrid | 82-95 | A1 | €120 |
| Jazz Petrol | 110-130 | A2-A3 | €170-€190 |
| Note Diesel | 95-115 | A1-A2 | €120-€170 |
| Note Petrol | 120-140 | A2-A3 | €170-€190 |
The Jazz hybrid comes out on top for lowest emissions and tax. Note diesels aren’t far behind, but diesel fuel sometimes costs more than petrol in Ireland.
Both cars have a reputation for reliability, no matter the engine. When buying used, the car’s condition matters more than the specific engine.
If you drive a company car, the Jazz hybrid’s sub-100g/km emissions can really cut your benefit-in-kind tax bill.
Ownership Costs: Parts, Warranties and Servicing
When you look at long-term ownership in Ireland, the Honda Jazz and Nissan Note show pretty different cost patterns. Honda usually asks more for servicing, but you get solid reliability in return.
The Note keeps maintenance cheaper, though as these cars age, you might run into more warranty headaches.
Common Repair and Part Costs
Honda Jazz parts typically cost about 15-20% more than what you’d pay for Nissan Note components. For example, brake pads on the Jazz run €80-120, while the Note’s come in at €60-90 from most Irish suppliers.
Timing belt replacement hits both models hard. Jazz owners usually pay €350-450 for the job, and Note drivers spend €280-380, depending on engine size.
Common Part Comparison:
- Clutch replacement: Jazz €650-800, Note €550-700
- Alternator: Jazz €280-350, Note €220-290
- Starter motor: Jazz €190-250, Note €150-210
If you ever have trouble with the Jazz’s CVT gearbox, brace yourself. CVT fluid changes cost €180-220, but if the gearbox itself fails, repairs can soar to €2,500-3,200.
Note diesels seem to run into DPF issues more than the petrol ones. Cleaning a DPF costs €150-200, and replacing it is a pricey €800-1,200.
Warranty Coverage and Reliability
Honda gives you a three-year manufacturer warranty, and Nissan matches that with three years as well. Both brands let you buy extended warranties through their dealers.
The Honda Approved Used Car Guarantee covers mechanical and electrical parts on older models. If you stick to Honda’s maintenance schedule, independent garages can keep your warranty valid.
Jazz models hold up well over time. Engine failures are rare, and most problems pop up with minor electrical bits or the air conditioning.
Note reliability really depends on its age and engine. The early diesels had turbocharger issues, but the CVT versions actually last longer than the manuals.
Ciaran Connolly from Amazing Cars and Drives says, “The Jazz consistently outperforms the Note in long-term reliability studies, with fewer major component failures after 80,000 miles.”
Servicing Intervals and Expenses
You need to service the Honda Jazz every 12,500 miles or 12 months. Minor services at main dealers cost €180-250, and major ones can climb to €350-450.
HondaCare Service Plans start at €299 for two scheduled visits. Independent specialists do the same work for about 25-30% less.
Nissan Note service intervals match the Jazz at 12,500 miles. Minor services are €150-220, and major ones run €280-380.
Independent garages cut costs for both cars. Alternative Honda Jazz servicing keeps you within spec but saves you a fair bit.
On average, annual servicing sets Jazz owners back €320-400 at main dealers, while Note owners pay €250-320. Go with an independent specialist, and you can drop those numbers by €80-120 a year.
Overview of Model Variants and Trims
The Honda Jazz and Nissan Note both come in several trim levels with different features and pricing in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Honda Jazz range has four main variants, and it starts out at a much higher price than most rivals, honestly.
Popular Jazz Trims in Ireland
The Honda Jazz lineup includes Elegance, Advance, Crosstar Advance, and Advance Sport. Each one targets a different buyer or budget.
Jazz Elegance sits at the entry level. Even as the base model, it starts from £28,060, which is a lot more than something like a Skoda Fabia.
Jazz Advance brings in more tech and comfort. You usually get a better infotainment system and extra safety kit.
Jazz Crosstar Advance is the SUV-styled version. From what I’ve seen, it’s priced over £30,000, so you’re definitely paying for that premium look.
Jazz Advance Sport adds sporty styling, but still keeps the Jazz’s practical vibe.
All Jazz variants use Honda’s hybrid powertrain only. You get a 1.3-litre petrol engine paired with electric assistance.
Frequently Chosen Note Specifications
The Nissan Note used to offer more engine choices than the Jazz does now. Petrol and diesel options cropped up across several trim levels.
Entry-level Note variants started around £9,995 for the 1.2 Visia Limited Edition. That’s a way better value than the Jazz, honestly.
Mid-range Note trims like ES and Acenta added things like air conditioning, a better stereo, and nicer cabin materials.
Top-specification Note models topped out at about £17,100 fully loaded. Even then, you’d still pay less than for the cheapest Jazz.
Engine choices included a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel. The diesel could hit up to 80mpg, which beats the Jazz on fuel economy.
Ciaran Connolly points out, “The price gap between Jazz and Note variants can reach £10,000-15,000 when comparing entry-level to top-specification models, making trim selection crucial for budget-conscious Irish buyers.”
Recommended Features for Value
If you’re picking between Jazz and Note trims, some features make more sense for Irish roads and weather.
Safety equipment should include Euro NCAP five-star rated systems. The Jazz scored well with 93% adult and 85% child protection.
Climate control is worth it for year-round comfort. Manual air con works if you’re saving money, but automatic climate control is just easier.
Infotainment connectivity like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay helps keep your car up-to-date. Both really should be standard these days.
Practical storage trumps luxury materials. The Jazz’s folding rear seats make a flat floor, and the Note gives you 411 litres of boot space with the seats down.
Fuel efficiency features matter for running costs. The Jazz’s hybrid system aims for savings, but the Note’s diesel still does better in the real world.
Skip expensive paint or fancy wheels—they rarely add real value.
Comparing Styling and Build Quality
Honda and Nissan went in different directions with the Jazz and Note. The Jazz leans into practical elegance, while the Note keeps things more traditional for a hatchback.
You’ll spot build quality differences pretty quickly, especially in the materials and how well each car holds up over time.
Exterior Design and Aesthetics
The Honda Jazz looks more grown-up than older versions. Its design now lines up more with the Civic, which gives it a bit more class.
Honda’s front grille uses plenty of chrome, and the tall roof and generous glass make it look almost like a mini-MPV.
The Note, on the other hand, sticks to a classic supermini shape. Nissan’s V-motion grille keeps it on brand, but the rest of the design feels pretty safe.
Design Philosophy Differences:
- Honda Jazz: Practical elegance, MPV-like proportions
- Nissan Note: Classic hatchback style
Both cars offer 15- or 16-inch wheels, depending on trim. The Jazz’s taller roof stands out, while the Note blends in with the rest of the hatchback crowd.
Interior Materials and Finish
The Honda Jazz impresses with its interior build quality. Honda’s reputation for slick manual gearboxes holds up here—the six-speed unit feels great.
Plastics in the Jazz feel sturdy, especially around the doors and dash. The switches and buttons have that signature Honda feel—solid and built to last.
Nissan used more basic plastics in the Note. They do the job, but they don’t feel as nice as what you get in the Jazz.
Material Quality Comparison:
- Dashboard: Jazz uses soft-touch; Note sticks with hard plastics
- Seat fabrics: Both are durable, but the Jazz edges ahead on comfort
- Controls: Honda’s switches feel more precise and robust
Ciaran Connolly says, “Honda’s interior build quality typically results in fewer rattles and wear issues after five years of ownership, which directly impacts resale values in the Irish market.”
Long-Term Durability
Honda’s solid reputation for reliability gives Jazz owners peace of mind. Owners often say the Jazz keeps its panel gaps tight and the interior looks good even after years on the road.
The Note struggles a bit more with holding value, which probably ties into its durability over time. Higher insurance and lower resale can make the Note a tougher sell.
Durability Factors:
- Panel gaps: Jazz stays consistent longer
- Interior wear: Honda’s materials age better
- Mechanical longevity: Jazz comes out on top for reliability
Irish roads are tough on small cars, with rough surfaces testing everything from the suspension to the trim. The Jazz’s build quality really shines in these conditions.
Both cars need regular servicing, but Jazz owners usually deal with fewer unexpected repairs in the first decade. That means lower overall ownership costs for most Jazz drivers.
Market Alternatives and Competitor Value
The Honda Jazz and Nissan Note face plenty of competition in Ireland’s hatchback market. Drivers often look at Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, and Hyundai i20 too.
Pricing can swing a lot between the Republic and Northern Ireland, so which alternative works best really depends on where you’re shopping.
Other Hatchback Options at Similar Costs
The Ford Fiesta tops Irish sales charts, starting at around €16,000 in the Republic and £14,500 in Northern Ireland. I think the Fiesta feels sportier to drive than both the Jazz and Note, though the interior doesn’t offer as much space.
Toyota Yaris hybrid models cost between €20,000 and €23,000 in Ireland, so they compete directly with the Jazz’s hybrid versions. The Yaris gets better fuel economy at 4.1L/100km, while the Jazz uses about 4.5L/100km.
Hyundai i20 comes with an excellent five-year warranty. Prices land between €17,500 and €21,000 in the Republic. The i20 boot matches the Note at 352 litres, but back seat space feels tighter.
Price Comparison Table (Republic of Ireland):
- Ford Fiesta: €16,000-€22,000
- Toyota Yaris Hybrid: €20,000-€23,000
- Hyundai i20: €17,500-€21,000
- Honda Jazz: €18,980-€24,500
- Nissan Note: €19,500-€25,000
Skoda Fabia offers the best value here with prices from €15,800. Boot space even beats both the Jazz and Note at 380 litres.
Why Choose Jazz or Note in Ireland?
Irish roads really suit the Jazz and Note’s higher driving positions and softer suspension. Both tackle Dublin’s rough streets better than lower hatchbacks like the Fiesta.
The Honda Jazz’s flat loading area lets you haul more than most hatchbacks. Irish buyers seem to love this—especially for garden centre runs or a trip to IKEA.
Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives, points out, “The Jazz and Note suit Irish driving patterns perfectly—comfortable for motorway commutes to Cork or Belfast, yet compact enough for Dublin city centre parking.”
Insurance companies favour both models. The Jazz sits in groups 7-12, and the Note falls in groups 6-11. Ford Fiesta ST models, by contrast, hit group 17, which means much higher premiums for younger drivers.
VRT costs don’t hit as hard with these models since both Honda and Nissan have strong dealer networks here. Importing from Northern Ireland usually saves about €1,500-€2,500 after VRT.
Resale Demand in the Irish Market
Honda’s reputation for reliability keeps Jazz resale values strong in Ireland. Three-year-old models hold onto 55-60% of their original value, while similar Fiestas keep just 45-50%.
The Note’s bigger size attracts Irish families moving on from MPVs. DoneDeal listings show steady demand for diesel Note models, especially in rural counties where fuel economy matters more.
Both Honda and Nissan offer established service networks across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Honda runs 42 dealers in the Republic, and Nissan has 38.
Jazz hybrid models fetch premium prices on the used market. Low-mileage examples hold their value better than petrol-only versions, which probably reflects the growing interest in greener cars here.
Northern Ireland buyers often bring Jazz and Note models south, so cross-border demand helps support used values in both places.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Nissan Note and Honda Jazz each have their quirks and model year differences that matter for Irish drivers. Here are answers to the most common questions buyers have when comparing these cars.
What are the common reliability issues with the Nissan Note and Honda Jazz in Ireland?
The Honda Jazz stands out for reliability, no matter which engine you pick. The 1.2 and 1.4 petrol units both do well, though the 1.4 feels stronger on the motorway.
Nissan Note reliability really depends on the generation and engine. First-generation petrol Notes from 2013 and earlier prove reliable and will last for ages, according to automotive forums.
But the Note’s CVT automatic gearbox and supercharged 1.2 DIG-S engine can cause headaches. Irish drivers should probably steer clear of those variants if they want to avoid trouble down the road.
Which years of the Nissan Note are considered less reliable to purchase in Ireland?
The first-generation Nissan Note (up to 2013) stands out as the most reliable for Irish buyers. These use proven petrol engines and skip the complicated tech of later models.
Later Note models are not so good when compared to earlier ones. The second-generation Note brought in more complex systems that can become a hassle.
If you’re looking at post-2013 models, check the transmission and engine carefully. I’d avoid any Note with CVT automatic transmission or the supercharged DIG-S engine.
How does the performance of the Nissan Note e-Power compare to the Honda Jazz in Ireland?
The Nissan Note e-Power uses a unique hybrid system where the petrol engine charges the electric motor. This setup gives instant torque and smooth acceleration around Irish towns.
Honda’s Jazz Crosstar e hybrid works differently, switching between petrol and electric power. The Jazz hybrid usually gets better real-world fuel economy on longer Irish trips.
Insurance costs are higher for both hybrids in Ireland because of their specialist parts. Repairs also cost more than with regular petrol engines.
What are some known issues with the Nissan Note that potential buyers should be aware of?
The CVT automatic gearbox causes the biggest headaches in later Note models. These gearboxes often develop faults that can cost more to fix than the car is worth.
Diesel Notes should be avoided at lower prices. Any savings on fuel or tax will disappear if something goes wrong with the diesel.
The supercharged 1.2 DIG-S engine brings its own reliability worries. The simpler, naturally aspirated petrol engines work better for Irish driving.
Which model of the Honda Jazz offers an automatic transmission option in the Irish market?
Honda offers the Jazz with CVT automatic transmission across several generations. CVT boxes are somewhere in the middle, good economy with decent reliability compared to other automatics.
Honda’s CVT system holds up better than Nissan’s version. The Jazz CVT stays reliable over time and gives a smooth drive for Irish roads.
Manual Jazz models are the most reliable, but the CVT automatic is a solid choice if you need an automatic.
What are the latest consumer reviews saying about the Nissan Note and Honda Jazz in Ireland?
Lately, people have been pointing out that the Note 2010-2012 offers the best value for the cost (3.5k-4.5k) compared to the Golf or Fiesta in Ireland’s used car market.
Irish buyers really seem to like how practical the Note is—and the price isn’t bad either.
Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives, puts it this way: “The Note is a good little car, the Mk I is just about as reliable as the Jazz but the wee Nissan is the better car to drive.”
Both the Note and Jazz have gotten a boost from the general hike in used prices making it worth repairing older vehicles.
In Ireland, that means reliable small cars like these often go for a premium.