This is the third-generation Honda Jazz, unveiled to the public for the first time at this week’s Geneva Motor Show.
Design changes help align the new Jazz to other recently launched members of the Honda family like the Civic and HR-V, with its new ‘flowing wing’ grille and headlamps, bold X-shape face and new rear spoiler.
More interior space
Thanks to a new chassis set up (also used for the new HR-V), the new Jazz is bigger and more practical than before offering more leg and headroom for front and rear passengers.
Boot space has been increased to 354 litres (50 litres more than the previous model) with the rear seats in use and 884 litres with the rear seats down.
Ride quality has also been improved with the introduction of new lighter suspension and dampers which Honda says will enhance comfort and reduce vibrations from the road. Add to that some additional sound-proofing around the cabin to reduce wind and road noise and the Jazz should be one of the most comfortable cars in its class while chassis tweaks should help make the car feel more accurate and agile too.
Updated interior
Inside the car has been upgraded with more premium materials around the cabin plus the large windscreen helps to give a spacious and airy feel.
In terms of kit the big news is the new centre console which features a five-inch LCD screen or seven-inch touchscreen, the latter providing internet access, real-time traffic, weather updates and news.
Honda’s City-Brake Active system will now be fitted as standard and there’s also a wide variety of safety features standard on more expensive trims and optional on the entry-level Jazz including a lane departure warning system, a traffic sign recognition tool, collision prevention systems and high-beam assist.
Honda’s ‘Magic Seats’ also make a return in the new model offering excellent flexibility and practicality which can be configured for passengers or cargo, or both.
Sole petrol engine
From launch the Jazz will be available with just one engine, an all-new 1.3-litre petrol that develops 101bhp and can be mated to a six-speed manual or a semi-automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox.
Largely thanks to some weight loss over the previous car, efficiency has been greatly improved too and we are expecting CO2 emissions to be very competitive when the official figures are announced later in the year.
According to Honda there are no plans for a diesel engine to be introduced or a petrol/electric hybrid like the previous generation.
The new Jazz will arrive in UK showrooms in the summer, pricing and more detailed specification information is expected closer to the time.
