Bigger, better Jazz ready to call the tune

It’s time for Nissan to take Note! Arch-rival Honda is hoping to set the tone in the supermini-MPV sector with an all-new Jazz – and Auto Express has the pictures to prove it.

Our spy photographers have chased the car across the UK and Japan, and these exclusive images originate from the Far East. They reveal that the new model is ready for its world debut at the Tokyo Motor Show next month.

With sharp-looking new lights, a revised rear end and body panels that have been carefully sculpted to give a smoother appearance, the Jazz manages to combine a sportier design with an upmarket interior. There is also a more steeply raked windscreen, while an optional glass roof, although not featured in our pictures, will provide a more airy feel inside.

The baby Honda – which is badged Fit in its Japanese home market – will also build on the current generation’s rep­utation for reliability. The Jazz has twice finished at the top of Auto Express’s annual Driver Power owner satisfaction survey.

Yet while the new car looks dif­ferent, much of the technology under the skin is already proven. The model is based on an evolution of the current chassis, although the second generation is tipped to be wider and longer.

As with the existing machine, the fuel tank will be located in the centre of the car, which means the practical flat floor is carried over. An equally spacious boot is likely, while Honda’s clever folding seat layout remains, too, allowing owners to expand the load area at the pull of a single lever.
However, Auto Express has learned that the rear seat squabs have been redesigned, and harder-wearing materials are used to protect the backs of the seats when they are folded.

Arguably the biggest changes are under the bonnet, though. While the current Jazz has 1.2 or 1.4-litre petrol power, the newcomer will get a choice of 100bhp 1.3-litre or 120bhp 1.5-litre engines. The latter features Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing technology, and manual or CVT auto gearboxes are available with both. Early figures suggest the 1.3 could return 65mpg.

Prices have still to be confirmed. But as standard equipment is improved, a slight increase is likely, with entry-level cars starting at £10,000.