New Honda Jazz - prices and specs for latest practical hatch

Honda's latest version of the Jazz supermini has brought what Honda calls "exceptional affordability" - and an enhanced range of safety features - to the model.

Starting at £13,500, the new Honda Jazz is built on an entirely new platform that boosts the impressive interior space and comfort provided by previous generation car. New technology, including the innovative 'Magic Seats' system and a whole raft of safety improvements, make the Jazz one of the most competitive in the segment.

New 2015 Honda Jazz design

Honda has made sure that the Jazz retains its familiar shape, but has taken design inspiration from the Civic hatchback and HR-V SUV. Overall, the design is a little less boxy than its predecessor, as smoother lines and rounded edges can be seen in more places.

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The front-end features a thick black nose that also appears on the new Honda HR-V SUV. The rear lights have been stretched and the tailgate has an exceptionally low lip.

Practicality was at the forefront of the new Jazz's design, so the new car is 15mm longer than the model it replaces. The wheelbase - the distance between the front and rear wheels - has grown by 30mm to allow interior space to increase. That low boot lip also means buyers should have no problem loading awkwardly sized items inside too.

Engines and performance

A 1.3-litre petrol engine powers the new Jazz hatchback, and buyers are able to specify either a six-speed manual or CVT automatic gearbox. Honda’s ‘Earth Dreams Technology’ features in this new engine, which helps to make it more fuel-efficient and emit less carbon dioxide than its predecessor. The new Jazz can return up to 61.4mpg, when specified with a CVT-type automatic gearbox, and emissions reach as low as 106g/km. That means fewer trips to the fuel station and an annual road tax bill of just £20.

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The 1.3-litre petrol engine has 100bhp, and performs a 0-62mph time of 11.2 seconds when connected to the manual gearbox. The CVT automatic takes longer to reach 62mph, hitting the speed in 12 seconds.

Interior and specifications

Honda is aiming more for usability and simplicity with the Jazz’s new dashboard. It still has classic Honda touches; with a steering wheel and dashboard layout that echoes the latest Civic.

Features like a large central speedometer, a red starter button and a flat, touch-sensitive button layout for the climate controls is present.

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As with the car it replaced, the Jazz's fuel tank is located in the centre of the vehicle to increase boot space and allow for more rear-passenger room and extra storage areas throughout the interior. The new Jazz also gets Honda's Magic Seat system, which lets you fold the rear seats completely flat for bulky luggage or fold the back seat squabs up to squeeze in taller items.

The new Jazz comes in three specifications: S, SE, SE Navi, EX and EX Navi. All Jazz models feature DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, automatic headlights and wipers, Honda’s Magic Seats and manual air conditioning.

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Move up to the mid-spec SE model and Honda’s CONNECT touchscreen infotainment system is added along with power foldable door mirrors, all-round parking sensors and 15-inch alloy wheels.

The top-of-the-range EX trim throws in larger 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, front fog lights and a reversing camera.

SE and EX models have the Navi option, which fits a GARMIN satellite navigation system for around £600 extra.

Safety

Along with the usual suite of airbags, ABS and stability management programs, the new Jazz also comes with an active City Brake system, which applies the brakes in traffic if you get too close to the car in front. Tyre pressure sensors and two ISOFIX mounting points are included too.

If you go for SE trim and above, safety equipment like lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot detection (or “Cross Traffic Monitor”) systems and an intelligent speed limiter are equipped.

Price and release date

Prices start from £13,495 for an entry-level S model with a manual gearbox and rise to £17,425 for an EX Navi model with the CVT automatic gearbox.

The new Jazz is on sale now.

For all the latest Honda reviews, including the previous generation Jazz model, visit the Carbuyer Honda reviews page.