What's all this about?
These, ladies and gentleman, are the first images of the Honda Jazz prototype that is set to be unveiled at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.
Prototype? Isn't there already a new Jazz in Japan?
Why yes there is. This prototype is the 'Europeanised' version with suspension tailored to European roads and a few other changes.
Oh so I'm not going mad then. Alright, carry on...
The new car is 15mm longer than before with 30mm added to the wheelbase, which should make for a more comfortable cabin. Add to this Honda's versatile 'Magic Seats' system and the adoption of a centre located tank from the Civic and HR-V and the Jazz should have the most spacious interior in the class.
Sounds good. What else?
Under the bonnet is a new 1.3-litre i-VTEC petrol engine that is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission (replacing the old five-speed gearbox) or a CVT automatic unit. No word yet on power output or emissions, but Honda does say the new unit offers better fuel economy and performance.
My old ma is looking for a new motor; when can I see it?
The prototype (albeit a thinly veiled one) will be revealed on October 2 in Paris but it is likely to be next summer before we see the new Jazz on the road in this part of the world.
Paul Healy - 16 Sep 2014