HONDA has unveiled its all-new Jazz model, featuring advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain technology as standard for the first time.

The new generation of the popular B-segment hatchback builds on the class-leading comfort and space Jazz is known for, with exceptional ‘EV-like’ driving dynamics and advanced technology and safety features.

The new Jazz aims to introduce the efficiency benefits and performance of hybrid power to the mass market and accelerate Honda towards their goal of achieving electrified powertrains in all its European mainstream models by 2022 and will be the first model in its European line-up to wear the new ‘e:HEV’ powertrain badging.

Another addition to the Jazz range is the new ‘Crosstar’ variant, designed to appeal to those seeking a more crossover style design. Available with the same hybrid powertrain and interior features as the standard model, the new Crosstar features increased ride height, a unique front grille design, water-resistant upholstery and integrated roof rails.

For the first time ever in Europe, Jazz will only be available with an advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain, newly developed for Jazz and which, its makers say, will provide a smooth, responsive and direct driving feel.

Honda says the interior quality of the all-new Jazz provides levels of comfort and spaciousness unrivalled in the B-segment, its contemporary interior layout echoing the clean look of the exterior, complemented with an uncluttered, user-friendly instrument panel. The wide centre console armrest also echoes interior specifications of higher segment cars.

New wider, body-stabilising front seats feature mat-structure support, replacing the previous spring set-up, to help prevent fatigue on long journeys. Improved rear-seat design and a thicker rear seat pad provides greater comfort for passengers too.

To complete the strong package of the new Jazz, Honda provides the most comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver aids in its class.

The scope of the brand’s Honda Sensing technology has been enhanced with the application of a new wider, higher-definition camera, replacing the previous camera and radar set-up. This enables improved awareness of vehicle surroundings, including recognition of verges without kerbs or roadside markings.

The Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) is improved with night-time operation to detect pedestrians and cyclists when there is no street lighting, and now applies the brakes when oncoming vehicles cut across or turn into the path of the car. The new camera system also enables Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) to follow traffic at low speeds in congestion and applies Lane Keep Assist on urban and rural roads – as well as multi-lane highways – for increased safety in more situations.

Sales of the next-generation Honda Jazz are set to start in mid-2020.