Currently reading: First view: Honda Jazz
These are the first official images of the new Honda Jazz that will go on sale this autumn

Honda has released the first official images of the new Jazz, which is due to hit UK showrooms this autumn.

Successor to the current strong-selling supermini, Honda claims its new Jazz will build on the qualities that made the old model so popular in the UK. The new city runabout is 55mm longer and 20mm wider than before, boosting cabin space. But it also gets two new petrol engines that are claimed to increase fuel economy substantially.

The new entry-level motor will be an 88bhp, 1.2-litre four-cylinder with sub-120g/km CO2 emissions. Above this buyers will also be able to select a new 1.4-litre unit with 98bhp. Both engines use VTEC variable valve timing technology and Honda promises diesel-rivalling fuel consumption figures. There are no plans for a diesel powered Jazz at the moment – instead Honda is focussing on introducing a hybrid powertrain, which should arrive within two years.

Honda will also offer a six-speed roboticised manual transmission as an option with the 1.4-litre engine. This gearbox means the Jazz can apparently achieve 54.3mpg with its larger petrol engine.

One of the big weaknesses of the original Jazz was its bumpy ride quality, which should be improved significantly in the new car. The new Jazz has a 50mm longer wheelbase and 35mm wider front track, both of which should improve stability.

Honda is also keen to emphasise the Jazz’s credentials as a town car. The doors can now be opened wider than before and the A-Pillars have been narrowed to improve front visibility.

New Jazz prices will be announced nearer to the car’s launch later this year, but expect it to cost from £10k.

Will Powell

Advertisement

Read our review

Car review

The Honda Jazz is a super-practical supermini that’s a doddle to drive and own, but lacking in excitement

Join the debate

Comments
7
Add a comment…
theoriginalshoe 1 August 2008

Re: First view: Honda Jazz

My wife had one at 22, and loved it.

Surprised at the article's reference to a deficiency in ride quality - I always found it very comfortable.

Adrian987 31 July 2008

Re: First view: Honda Jazz

TegTypeR wrote:
I don't know about anyone else, but have you ever seen a young person driving a Jazz?

Well, I feel young, and I am a proud Jazz owner (for 4 years), and still working, so I guess I must count as young.

Looking forward to seeing what the new one is like. I like the idea of more performance and economy. Will it be good enough to persuade me to trade up, though?

Mini1 30 July 2008

Re: First view: Honda Jazz

I've seen a couple of young-ish people driving the Jazz. However, I think the new model looks a lot cooler - more angular. I loved the last one, but the colours they offered it in never helped - Pink, Peach and Mint Green. Hmm. But I hope this new one does just as well as the last one - or even better!! I'm sure it will.