These are the first images of the new Honda Jazz that is set to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next month. Technically it is badged as a 'prototype', but this is the car you will see on Irish roads from next summer.
The Europeanised Jazz (Japan gets a different version) is said to be 15mm longer than before with a useful 30mm added between the wheels to make for a more spacious cabin. This feeling is sure to be helped by the Jazz adopting the centre fuel tank layout of the latest Civic and recently announced HR-V crossover (which is based on the Jazz platform). The new car will also feature Honda's 'Magic Seats', as before.
One of the main differences between the European and Japanese market Jazzes is the suspension set up, as the European car has apparently been subjected to some of the great roads we have on this side of the world to fine tune its settings. Honda says that the result is a "more refined and comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers."
Mechanicals
Power will be provided by a new 1.3-litre i-VTEC petrol engine that is paired to either a six-speed manual gearbox (replacing the previous five-speed unit) or a CVT automatic transmission. Honda says the new CVT offers improved fuel economy and higher performance than before but does not provide anything in the way of figures.
Anything else?
The Jazz prototype will be unveiled on Honda's stand at the Paris Motor Show on October 2, alongside the new Honda HR-V.