The new 2015 Honda Jazz doesn’t deviate much from the format set by its predecessors, judging by the first pictures of the European-spec supermini issued today.
Although dubbed a prototype, what you see here is near as dammit the 2015 Jazz you’ll see in Honda showrooms next summer.
What’s new on the 2015 Honda Jazz?
That bodyshell is all-new, says Honda. It’s 15mm longer, and the axles are pushed closer to the ends of the Jazz courtesy of a 30mm stretch in the wheelbase of Honda’s global compact platform.
No prizes for guessing that this is to liberate more passenger space in the cabin – always a Honda Jazz party trick.
The Magic Seats, which flip up like cinema chairs letting you slot a bike or tall objects in the back row, return. They’re allowed by a fuel tank mounted centrally which liberates a lower floorpan, just like on earlier Jazzes, the Civic and the recently announced HR-V.
Tech underneath the third-generation Honda Jazz
Honda has an answer to BMW’s Efficient Dynamics and Volkswagen’s Bluemotion tech. Called the cheesily named Earth Dreams Technology, this brings a new 1.3-litre i-VTEC petrol engine which will be available with a six-speed manual or a CVT auto transmission.
No specific power or economy claims have been released yet, but we’ll see the full story at the 2014 Paris motor show on 2 October, where the Jazz makes its European debut.
Honda also promises a new suspension system. No details are available yet.
Reaction to the new Jazz
Honda UK’s Leon Brannan said: ‘The Jazz is a hugely important car for Honda in the UK, and has been a runaway success since its original launch. It has an extremely loyal following, its reliability is legendary.’
Our view? Drivers wanting reliable, hassle-free small car motoring look like they’re in for another Honda treat. The Jazz may not thrill enthusiasts, but there’s no arguing with its Captain Sensible status.