New Jazz to be re-introduced to the Indian market in July.
Ever since the last generation Honda Jazz was pulled out of the market owing to poor sales and lack of a diesel option, Honda Cars India didn't have a hatchback model to compete in the B+ segment which is the all-important segment for the Indian buyer.
While demand for premium hatchbacks show no waning signs, Honda is looking to rejoin the bandwagon by introducing the latest Jazz, featuring a new design, updated platform, better equipment and, last but by no means the least, a diesel variant. Below is a pictorial comparison between the previous Jazz and the latest model. For a fair comparison, the European specification (which differs mildly in the grille area, compared to the global model) of both generations are used.
Honda Jazz Exterior
The new Honda Jazz follows the company's latest design language, as influenced in other models like the new City and upcoming Civic. Compared to the previous Jazz, the headlights are smaller and flow in to the grille. The lower fascia features new fog lamps enclosures, larger intake and a sculpted front bumper.
The car is 95 mm longer, and boasts a 30 mm longer wheelbase compared to the older model, which translates to more interior space. At the side, the new Jazz features a sleeker window line, defining character lines slashed across the width, and new alloy wheel designs. Coming to the rear, the most noticeable difference is the striking pair of taillamps and the "shark fin" antenna, as well an updated lower fascia.
Honda Jazz Interior
The interior is an evolution of the sporty-looking design of the outgoing Jazz. It nearly mirrors the design of the Honda City, right upto the touch sensitive buttons, optional 7-inch screen with Honda Connect infotainment system, steering mounted paddle shifters (only for petrol CVT), and push button start/stop.
The Jazz's defining feature is the Magic Seat system, which increases practicality by offering extra storage spaces, while boot space can be increased from 354 litres (with the rear seats up) to 884 litres (with them down).
Honda Jazz Engines
Like the older model, the new Honda Jazz comes with a 1.2-liter i-VTEC motor. While the previous Jazz produced 89 bhp and 110 Nm of torque, Honda still haven't revealed the final figures of the new model. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a CVT option.
However, the biggest addition to Jazz lineup, which could attract more customers than before, is the 1.5-liter i-DTEC diesel engine. Good for 100 PS/200 Nm in the City, this is the first diesel-powered hatch Honda will introduce in the country. The i-DTEC motor will only be offered with a manual gearbox, and the car will be launched in July.
