Arriving in Ireland in September 2015, the third-generation Honda Jazz features bold yet sophisticated exterior and interior design. It will have an entry level price of €17,395 for the new SE version.
Universal Honda, the Irish distributor claims that it will offer unrivalled interior space and versatility, and the new Jazz offers more rear seat space than the out-going model. It adds that occupants will benefit from increased refinement and advanced safety and infotainment technologies, as well as a highly efficient and dynamic driving experience.
While the newcomer retains the classic Jazz silhouette, it exhibits distinctive contemporary styling including a strong new face and styling lines.
The use of Honda’s cleverly packaged new global B-segment chassis means that the latest Jazz is even bigger on the inside. It also means that the new Jazz is lighter than its predecessor and benefits from greater rigidity.
The company’s Magic Seats system claims to ensure that the interior offers unmatched versatility as well as class-leading space, with a range
of configurations for carrying cargo and passengers. With a wide tailgate and a low load height, access to the boot is easy, while four tie-downs in the boot enable objects to be securely transported.
Honda says that high-quality soft-touch materials and thoughtful interior design provide a sophisticated ambience. And with a seven-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash, Honda Connect is their new in-car infotainment system that offers internet browsing and access to real-time news, traffic and weather and numerous internet music stations. On the Jazz, it will be standard from Level 2, ES model upwards.
Honda promises a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features with City Brake Active system standard on all models. The Dynamic Safety Pack, which employs a camera and mid-range radar, underpins a comprehensive line-up of new advanced safety technologies that are being introduced across Honda’s new product line-up during 2015. Again, on the Jazz, it will be standard from Level 2, ES models upwards.
Honda tells us that from the launch date, the 2015 Jazz will be fitted with a new powerful, responsive and efficient 1.3-litre petrol engine from their 'Earth Dreams Technology' series. Delivering 102 PS of power at 6,000 rpm, the new engine is mated to a six-speed manual (replacing the previous five-speed unit ) or an automatic CVT transmission.
The new Jazz promises a refined ride, allied to more responsive and engaging handling, thanks to a new, more rigid and lighter chassis and re-engineered suspension.
The Japanese carmaker says that upgraded, lighter suspension components combine with the longer wheelbase to provide ride stability by naturally reducing pitching motions. New damper systems also improve ride quality for all occupants and reduce vibrations from the road into the cabin, and a new electric power-assisted steering system results in greater feedback for the driver. New front suspension geometry provides more stable and composed handling, helping the response of the new Jazz feel more accurate, natural and agile through corners.
As with Civic, 'Agile Handling Assist' will now also feature on the new Jazz for significant improvements handling at speed. Comprehensive soundproofing promises to bring further improvements, notably reducing engine, road and wind noise.
Honda claims that the overall effect is that the new Jazz feels and sounds peerlessly sophisticated, with reassuringly composed and refined dynamics.
They tell us that while key rivals have the options of entry level models and 3 door versions to give lower headline pricing, when compared to their best-selling variants, the Jazz compares favourably. Although higher on retail price, Honda believes that the power, equipment and space on offer should see Jazz prove attractive to buyers.
Compared to the previous Jazz, the entry level price has increased by €800, however when equipment, power are taken into account, the Jazz is more competitive and greater value compared to both previous Level 1 and Level 2 models. In addition to the City-Brake Active stytem, Honda have added air-conditioning, idle stop, Bluetooth, cruise control, automatic lights and wipers, and electric rear windows to the new entry-level SE model over the out-going SE version.
The new Jazz will arrive in Ireland in September, and Honda tells us that the full range pricing will be announced closer to launch date.
