Honda Jazz Prototype Shown Off In Paris

The all new 2015 Honda Jazz was one of the production ready “prototypes” shown off at the recent Paris Motor Show, and it’s causing quite a buzz in its segment, even though Honda’s main draw was the Civic Type R Concept II.

The new Jazz is reportedly set for launch next summer in Europe, and comes powered by a 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine, with an all new body shell and an ever so slight size increase of its predecessor.

Where these millimetres of difference really count is with the positioning of the fuel tank, which in turn has created more room in the cabin. To aid with the space the rear seats can also be folded totally flat, which is branded as “Magic Seats” by the Japanese automaker. It’s not magic but it’s very convenient.

Honda have also gone back to the drawing board for the front suspension, claiming the quality of the ride will be improved.

Horsepower, torque and the rest of the output has not been revealed just yet, but we do know it will come with a choice between six-speed manual transmission, or semi-automatic CVT. Honda simply state that it has improved performance and fuel economy over the previous model, thanks to its “Earth Dreams Technology engine.”

The term prototype may seem a bit loose for the new Jazz, since a variant has been on sale in the United States since 2013, just branded as the Honda Fit. That being said it is not the exact same vehicle and with different regulations and specs, we can cut them some slack.

Projected sales look to be quite strong, particularly in the UK, where the current model has been a huge success with a loyal user base.

-airherald