The new generation of Honda Jazz and Jazz Crosstar

The new Honda Jazz generation offers economy and segment-leading comfort and communication features

The advanced hybrid powertrain ensures optimum economy and performance
Contemporary style is the evolution of Jazz’s timeless silhouette
Introduction of a new version – Jazz Crosstar
Integrated systems provide a modern formula of entertainment and communication
Unbeatable spaciousness of the interior and exceptional functionality
Suspension improvements guarantee dynamic driving
A full range of advanced security systems

The new Honda Jazz and Jazz Crosstar ensure easy handling and quick reactions to driver actions, which is characteristic of the advanced e: HEV hybrid drive, which is available as standard in this model. The new generation Jazz, offered exclusively with the e: HEV twin-engine hybrid drive system, belongs to the new e: TECHNOLOGY model line in the Honda range and is the first of six electrified models to hit the European market by 2022.

Jazz e: HEV has been designed to provide a unique combination of good performance and impressive energy efficiency, complementing the high interior comfort and functionality that this model is famous for in the segment.

Honda, making a stylistic revolution of its urban compact, focused on a new design philosophy, defined in the Japanese concept of “Yoo no bi”. It means the beauty of everyday objects that require time to refine, which will make them even more beautiful and more ergonomic so that they can better serve specific purposes.

“We worked on a car there as an object that will have the power to enrich the daily lives of future users,” explains Takeki Tanaka, the leader of the Jazz project.

Changes to the timeless silhouette of Jazz include, among others smoothed contours harmonizing with the short bonnet and style of the cabin known from earlier generations. As a result of stylistic evolution, the vehicle gained a new, emotional appearance and a level of comfort and functionality unheard of in its segment.

While developing the new Jazz, Honda designers worked closely with engineers to ensure that the car retains the largest space in its segment, which is the hallmark of previous generations. This was achieved thanks to the ingenious layout of the hybrid powertrain components in the chassis and in the engine compartment.

The e: HEV system was developed for the Jazz model to provide the driver with a pleasant driving experience. It consists of two powerful electric motors, working with a 1.5-liter i-VTEC gasoline engine, a lithium-ion battery and an innovative direct transmission. The whole system ensures the best power-to-fuel ratio in this class of cars.

Intuitive system operation, easy communication and remote services that allow owners to smoothly continue their daily activities, have been combined with a comprehensive information and entertainment set, supported by the Honda Personal Assistant and the My Honda + application (available on selected versions).

Honda Jazz and Jazz Crosstar, which offer the most advanced driver assistance package in their segment, are also equipped with active and passive safety systems, designed to make driving easier and safer.

Honda Jazz Crosstar

Another version of the new generation Jazz
The SUV’s design appeals to drivers with an active lifestyle

Jazz Crosstar is a more harsh, SUV-like proposition, addressed to people leading an active lifestyle. Crosstar, available with the same hybrid powertrain and interior that is no different from the standard model, offers higher ground clearance, integrated roof rails and hydrophobic upholstery.

Optical enlargement of the model was achieved thanks to the bold design of the radiator grille, the striking black trim of the wheel arches and stylish frets. The characteristic for Crosstar, 16-inch silver-black alloy wheels increase the impression of stability and improve the overall visual effect.

The high power e: HEV hybrid drive system delivers outstanding performance and economy

The new Jazz is the first model with the e: TECHNOLOGY emblem
The propulsion system developed for Jazz consists of two compact electric motors, working with a 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC gasoline engine
The system’s output power is 109 HP (80kW) and 253 Nm of electric drive torque

Jazz for European customers will only be available with an advanced hybrid powertrain. The new generation Jazz has been designed to provide a unique combination of high performance and impressive energy efficiency, complementing the high level of interior comfort and functionality for which it is famous in its segment. The car has the e: HEV emblem.

The e: HEV system was developed for the new Jazz with the aim of providing the driver with a pleasant driving experience. It consists of two compact high-power electric motors, working with the 1.5-liter DOHC i-VTEC gasoline engine, a lithium-ion battery and an innovative direct transmission, and a power flow control unit, ensuring a high level of efficiency and smoothness.

The total power of 109 HP / 80 kW allows the car to accelerate to 100 km / h in 9.4 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 175 km / h. The result is a relaxing, comfortable journey, both through urban areas and during fast highway driving. The fuel-efficient hybrid system has CO2 emissions of 102 g / km (WLTP) and fuel consumption of 4.5 l / 100km (WLTP) in the standard model and CO2 emissions of 110 g / km (WLTP) and fuel consumption of 4 , 8 l / 100km (WLTP) for the Crosstar version.

To ensure a good driving experience and exceptional efficiency, the advanced hybrid e: HEV system smoothly selects one of the three available driving modes:

Electric mode (EV Drive): The lithium-ion battery powers the electric drive motor directly
In the hybrid mode of operation (Hybrid Drive), the gasoline engine produces energy, which goes to the generator, where it is converted into electricity, then transferred to the electric motor.
Internal combustion engine mode – the locking clutch mechanism creates a direct connection between the gasoline engine and driven wheels and the drive torque is directed from the engine directly to the wheels.

In most cases, during city driving, the vehicle automatically switches between hybrid and electric (EV) drive, which ensures maximum efficiency. During fast highway driving, the internal combustion engine mode is used, which can be supported by additional peak power of the electric motor, available on request at fast acceleration.

When driving in hybrid mode, the excess power of the gasoline engine can be used to recharge the battery, which takes place via a second electric motor, acting as a generator. Electric mode is also activated when the car slows down, producing energy through regenerative braking to recharge the traction battery.

Switching between the three driving modes is imperceptible to passengers. Jazz engineers have devoted a lot of effort to minimizing any delays when changing driving modes. High-speed electric motors have been developed by Honda to make them as light, compact, efficient and powerful as possible. The electric drive motor achieves a rotational speed of up to 13,300 rpm at a maximum vehicle speed of 175 km / h. The maximum torque is available from 0 on the RPM scale, which allows high acceleration to be achieved at low vehicle speeds.

Instead of a conventional gearbox, Jazz is powered by a newly developed, electronically controlled transmission (e-CVT) with a fixed ratio that connects the moving parts directly. The result is quiet, smooth torque transmission with linearly developed acceleration in all driving modes.

In hybrid drive mode, the new e-CVT transmission control unit software provides high torque delivered directly from the electric motor, while the internal combustion engine provides a sensation of linear speed increase at the time of acceleration, similar to the sensations we have with a multi-stage transmission. When more power is required, the new control software can continuously match the ideal engine speed. This affects the relationship between vehicle speed and engine speed as well as sound during acceleration felt by the driver and passengers as changing more linearly. It is the optimized, more noticeable torque transmitted in this way that is a key element of Jazz driving pleasure.

The system developed by Honda for Jazz is more sophisticated, but also smaller than the planetary e-CVT transmissions, usually found on hybrid vehicles of other brands. The new e-CVT transmission, created with a view to reducing dimensions and ingenious integration of components, is an example of effective layout, also visible in other elements of the Jazz model.

Jazz is the first model in the European offer of Honda, which has been marked with the new emblem “e: HEV”. This designation will also appear on subsequent Honda vehicles powered by a hybrid.

A new definition of a compact vehicle: Elements of gentle, contemporary design introduced into the timeless shapes of Jazz

Jazz represents the stylistic philosophy of “Yoo no bi”
The evolution of Jazz’s timeless silhouette with smooth lines and contours
A-pillars narrower by half improve visibility

Honda engineers, creating the latest generation of Jazz, took a bold step, deciding to design the model from scratch. They have developed a new, attractive offer in the compact segment: a completely new city car that combines exceptional economy with extraordinary everyday functionality that meets the needs of modern consumers.

Gentle, contemporary style brought simplicity to Jazz’s timeless shapes. Smooth contours, harmonizing with the short bonnet, long roofline and cabin style known from earlier generations, make up a recognizable, one-piece silhouette. As a result, the vehicle gained a renewed, emotional appearance and a level of comfort and functionality unheard of in its segment, which Jazz has always been famous for.

“We worked on a car there as an object that will have the power to enrich the daily lives of future users,” explains Takeki Tanaka, project leader.

Smooth body lines and an elegant front build a refined visual balance with varied plating surfaces, including C-pillars and a combination of rear combination lights that are hard to see any sharp lines.

Finding the right proportions was the key for designers to achieve stylistic harmony, both in the cabin and in the shape of the body. The first stylistic element of the arch, running from the bonnet to the rear, extended fenders, are extremely narrow A-pillars.

The thickness of the A-pillar has been reduced by more than half from 116 mm to just 55 mm, and the structural strength is provided by the post behind it. Thanks to this solution and hidden windscreen wipers, both the driver and passenger have an unobstructed wide field of view. Narrow A-pillars and elegant exterior mirrors also reduce noise and air resistance as well as improve aerodynamic performance.

The overall height has been reduced by 10 mm compared to its predecessor, which, combined with the tailgate line, provides a more compact, well-balanced body.

New advanced structural technologies, including The use of the latest semiconductors, which significantly reduced the size of the power control unit (PCU), was crucial for the room under the hood of a new hybrid propulsion system with two electric motors, while maintaining the traditional dynamic silhouette of Jazz. The hybrid powertrain slightly changed the dimensions of the new Jazz, which is only 16 mm longer than the previous petrol model, while its width did not change.

Baek Jongkuk, the designer of the new Jazz, explains: “I wanted to create a car that would be a” nice companion “for the owner, while improving its functionality. I did it by limiting unnecessary elements and simplifying the external lines, which allowed me to design a car with a friendly, fresh look, with a comfortable and practical interior. ”

Elegant stylistic adjustments, including a sophisticated rear roof spoiler and premium headlight housing design, complement the Jazz dynamic body and help maintain optical balance.

Jazz Crosstar

To increase the attractiveness of the model, a more stringent SUV-like Jazz Crosstar variant was proposed, aimed at people with an active lifestyle. Optical enlargement of the model was achieved thanks to the bold design of the radiator grille, eye-catching black trim around the wheel arches and stylish sills and roof rails. The silver-black alloy wheels, characteristic of Crosstar, increase the impression of stability and improve the overall strong visual effect. The Crosstar version, for a clearer distinction from the standard Jazz, is also available with the unique Surf Blue varnish, and also optionally with a contrasting roof in Crystal Black.

Clever space solutions and the highest comfort in the segment

Thanks to the ingenious organization of space, passengers have gained additional space for themselves and their luggage
304 liters of luggage space increases to 1,205 liters with the seats folded down
Rear seat passengers enjoy unrivaled comfort and space
The improved Magic Seats system increases the functionality of the luggage space

How to create a comfortable, friendly interior

The “Yoo no bi” philosophy has also influenced the design of a clean, minimalist interior, where passengers will appreciate the practical qualities of the materials used and the functionality of the orderly, ergonomic cabin. The functionality is also enhanced by durable materials used throughout the interior and modern dashboard cover soft to the touch.

The orderly, user-oriented cockpit consists of a narrow instrument panel that extends horizontally across the cab, without a cover restricting the field of view, which further increases the sense of extra spaciousness. For Honda, the essence of design has always been high functionality, which is why the 9-inch central touch screen – standard on Elegance, Executive and Crosstar versions, and the 7-inch TFT indicator set are easy to use and legible. All functions and controls are easily accessible and friendly, which saves the driver stress during driving.

The level of the flat, wide armrest, which is an extension of the center console, is designed at the height of the door armrests, obtaining the comfort that is known from the interiors of larger premium class cars.

The contemporary Jazz interior offers unprecedented spaciousness in this segment of cars, retaining an important advantage of previous generations.

Ultrathin A-pillars, which run smoothly from the bonnet, improve visibility up to 90 degrees, which is the leading result in the segment (69 degrees in the previous model). Thanks to this solution, hidden windscreen wipers and a flat dashboard, passengers have an unobstructed wide field of view, and more natural light reaches the interior through the panoramic windscreen and front side windows. Such illumination gives passengers the impression of spaciousness in a bright, open interior.

The luggage capacity is 304 liters with the rear seat backrests raised and increases to an impressive 1205 liters when the backrests are folded down (loading into the roof line). This was achieved thanks to the ingenious layout of the hybrid powertrain components in the chassis and in the engine compartment.

Major changes include placing the intake manifold and components on top of the engine. In this way, space was obtained for both electric motors (drive motor and generator) integrated in the engine compartment, as well as the power flow control unit (PCU), which is 20% smaller than previously used. Thanks to this, the low-voltage (12V) battery can also fit into the engine compartment, freeing up space at the back. Such effective placement of components was also possible due to the use of the latest high power semiconductors in the PCU unit.

The key to obtaining a huge passenger space was also unusual in this class of cars placement of the fuel tank in the central part of the floor, under the front seats. Thanks to this, Jazz still has an exceptionally functional rear seat folding system, Magic Seats, which gives the possibility of folding the backs, raising and lowering the seats and flexible shaping of space, allowing the transport of loads of various shapes and sizes. The effect of improving the structure of the luggage compartment is, among others a wider range of flap opening and a flat floor without a loading threshold, which makes luggage packing and unloading easier than before.

First-row passengers will be able to enjoy the newly developed seat frame that provides better back support, as well as the 30 mm thicker seat cushions. These changes increase comfort, especially for the lumbar spine, which will reduce fatigue during travel. For better driving comfort, a brake pedal has been modified, which by changing the angle allows a more natural foot positioning. Senior drivers will be pleased that the steering wheel adjustment range in the vertical axis has been increased by 2 degrees upwards and the steering wheel rim has been allowed closer to the driver.

Adult second-order passengers will travel more comfortably by modifying the Magic Seat design, allowing the hinges to move outward from the seated hips. The segment-leading leg space (986 mm), which thanks to the torsion beam of the rear suspension has been made for the passengers of the rear seat and the rear seat cushions 24 mm thick, create comfortable conditions for traveling in the rear. Designers also added second-row passengers with convenient pockets for smartphones in the backs of the front seats.

High dynamics, providing a unique driving experience

Improved body rigidity had a positive effect on suspension operation, maneuverability and ease of handling
Low-friction suspension and a new damping system improve ride quality
The cabin atmosphere has been improved by reducing road noise in three frequency ranges
The braking system with discs on all wheels ensures effective, safe braking

The task of Honda engineers was to achieve excellent dynamics and reactivity while driving the Jazz model. They focused on improving the chassis and suspension and increasing body rigidity, which provided the model with exceptional maneuverability and best-in-class ride comfort.

The rate of use of ultra-strong steel increased by 80%, which significantly reduced weight and improved crash safety. Torsional rigidity has been improved by 6% and static torsional resistance by 13%.

The use of a new shock absorber mount made in high pressure die cast technology has also improved the driving experience. Higher travel comfort was also ensured by other suspension improvements – new material from which springs and sleeves with reduced friction were made, as well as settings of the torsion beam suspension at the rear.

The front suspension geometry, with a low front center of rotation that increases stability, helps Jazz maintain precision, naturalness and lightness when cornering. Its agility is further enhanced by an electrically assisted steering system that provides the driver with precise feedback and a more natural feeling when changing direction.

The low friction suspension components – combined with the long wheelbase – provide an impressive level of stability while reducing longitudinal roll. The sophisticated damping system is responsible for comfortable driving on all seats and minimizes the transmission of vibrations from the road to the cabin, giving the feeling of pleasant peace.

The impression of smooth handling, combined with certainty while driving, is further enhanced by Honda’s Agile Handling Assist (AHA) system. AHA is another advanced solution that improves the dynamic stability of the car, especially when reacting to fast steering movements or heavy loads in corners. AHA operates via the Stability Control System (VSA), slightly braking the inner wheels in a corner when the steering wheel is turned, invisibly to the driver,. As a result, the car’s stability and response improves, which increases the feeling of confidence while driving.

The braking system provides high braking force thanks to the disc brakes applied to all wheels, with 262 mm ventilated discs at the front and 239 mm discs at the rear. Electronic braking systems include: Stability Control System (VSA), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill Start Assist System (HSA) and Automatic Brake Lock.

Honda’s comprehensive approach to the problem of noise, vibration and unevenness of the road caused that the audibility of engine noise, road surface and wind noise in the cabin is minimal. To reduce the noise from the surface, the insulation was increased, thanks to which the cabin atmosphere improved in three ranges of acoustic frequency. The cabin was separated from the floor panel to reduce the transmission of vibrations through the body structure, and sound insulation was added around the dashboard. Engineers also reduced noise generated by engine vibration by using polymer components to isolate its attachment points in the chamber. Sound-absorbing materials and thicker glass contribute to a 10% reduction in cabin noise compared to the previous Jazz generation.

In addition, the increased rigidity of the body and the use of ultra-strong steel allowed the introduction of new construction solutions, such as thin A-pillars, complemented by the aerodynamic design of the side mirrors, the rear spoiler and a new rim design. These elements reduce airflow noise while reducing aerodynamic drag and improving overall aesthetics.

Advanced systems allow owners not to lose touch with their daily affairs

Seamless, intuitive on-board connectivity unheard of in this segment
The possibility of using a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote services allows network communication while traveling
The Honda Personal Assistant uses artificial intelligence solutions to provide voice control of functions
The My Honda + app provides owners with remote car connectivity

The new generation of jazz offers the most attractive infotainment package in its segment, combining intuitive system operation with seamless communication with the world. The advanced systems that first appeared in the Honda e are now available in the new Jazz and will be introduced in future models.

Owners will be able to access many easy-to-use network-based features that set a new technical standard in the compact vehicle segment. External information and entertainment services and applications, including weather forecasts, parking locations, music, navigation, location search and telephone services, are also available via the touch screen or are activated by voice.

The easy-to-use LCD interface with a touch screen has been designed to minimize distraction of the driver. The service time for the most-used controls has been reduced by 58% compared to the previous model, which ensures safer and more ergonomic operation. The interface uses the graphic style known from smartphones, with scrolling and scrolling functions to browse pages and lists. The display can be configured to meet all usage requirements, including configurable shortcuts for frequently used functions and audio sources.

The comprehensive set of on-board applications can be supplemented by obtaining a smartphone mirror via the available Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the latter system being available for the first time in Jazz in a wireless connection. Even the user manual can be viewed using the touch screen infotainment system or – if we have a Honda Personal Assistant subscription – with voice commands. Each of the passengers can stay on the Internet while traveling, connecting their device to the car Wi-Fi hotspot.

The new Jazz Crosstar boasts a unique audio system with eight speakers, including an aluminum tweeter, unique Kevlar cone speakers and a subwoofer in the rear of the boot – this set guarantees the best acoustic performance in this segment of the car. In order not to distract attention, tweeters were placed in the recesses of the door handles, and the subwoofer box was planned in a place that did not limit the luggage space.

Interior designers paid special attention to details when creating an ordered dashboard and interface. In response to customer feedback, Honda has restored mechanical control of key functions, with tactile, precise knobs for regulating heating and ventilation.

My Honda +

Honda introduced the My Honda + smartphone application, thanks to which the owners gained remote access to cars. The service has been designed for a simple, intuitive smartphone application that guarantees safe access to many systems in the car, including safety and comfort functions. For example, information on the future travel route can be configured and sent from the application to the car, as well as remotely lock and unlock access to its interior.

To increase protection, the application also allows location monitoring and GPS tracking of the car’s location. Intelligent location tracking can be activated to alert the owner of a vehicle violation of a pre-set zone, as well as in the event of a car alarm. This is done through a notification sent to your smartphone.

Honda Personal Assistant

The infotainment and communication functions supported by the touch screen can also be activated by voice commands (the function is not available in Polish yet) via the Honda Personal Assistant system. The intuitive Honda Personal Assistant known from Honda, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, is able to naturally understand commands passed in the form of simple conversations and to contextual speech recognition, thanks to which it can facilitate access to many online services.

Honda Personal Assistant responds correctly to commands with a level of complexity that goes beyond the capabilities of other voice-activated virtual assistants. Can understand many levels of interaction, which allows you to get more accurate answers to specific queries. The owner may ask, for example: “OK Honda, find me an Italian restaurant with free parking and WiFi.” Honda Personal Assistant locates the appropriate options and presents them on the touch screen, then sets the optimal route to the selected location and displays it on the navigation screen.

In order for the owner to get the pleasure of owning a car without undue stress, Honda will keep up-to-date, wirelessly providing updates, thus ensuring that the features and applications used in the car benefit from the latest improvements and capabilities available.

To increase safety, all vehicles are standard equipped with an E-Call system for calling roadside assistance. In the event of an emergency, such as the activation of the airbag system, the location of the car is automatically made available to the appropriate emergency services.

A rich set of modern Honda technical solutions

The new Jazz as a standard receives a comprehensive active and passive safety package
The versatile Honda SENSING package uses the new high-resolution wide-angle camera
Jazza passengers are protected by 10 airbags, including the first in the segment, the front central airbag

Jazz of the latest generation is equipped with high-class active and passive safety technologies, designed to make it easier and safer to drive a car.

The comprehensive Honda SENSING active safety system package – as standard – now offers a full range of driver support solutions, guaranteeing safety in many more road scenarios, thanks to the new wide-angle camera with improved night-time efficiency.

The comprehensive Honda SENSING active safety system package includes:

Collision Mitigation Braking System, with improved detection of pedestrians at night when there is no street lighting. The system also alerts the driver when he detects a cyclist approaching a collision track. In addition, the system activates braking when Jazz crosses or rolls onto another vehicle’s collision track. This has been made possible by the use of the newly developed wide-angle front camera.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) automatically allows a car to follow another vehicle, controlling the distance in traffic at low speeds, e.g. in traffic jams (Low Speed Follow).
The lane maintenance system (LKAS) operates from a speed of 72 km / h, both on urban roads and outside the city and on multi-lane roads, which guarantees safety in a much larger number of road scenarios.
Lane Departure Warning System (RDMS) helps drivers stay on track. It alerts the driver when he detects that the vehicle may cross the lane boundary lines or approach the outer edge of the pavement (grass or gravel boundary), or to vehicles approaching from the opposite side, and if we leave the lane without signaling.
The blind spot monitoring system in the mirrors, supplemented with a transverse movement monitoring system, is available as standard in the Executive version.
The road sign recognition system uses a wide-angle camera to detect signs when the car is moving forward. After passing the mark, the system automatically recognizes and displays its graphic counterpart on a seven-inch screen. The system is designed to recognize round signs showing speed restrictions and entry bans. Two signs can be displayed simultaneously – only the speed limit sign is shown on the right side of the display, while the left side shows no entry and speed limit signs, supplemented with additional information, e.g. weather conditions.
The intelligent speed limiter recognizes the speed limit signs and adjusts the car’s speed to them. If the road sign shows a limit lower than the current vehicle speed, the indicator on the display flashes, accompanied by an acoustic notification, and the system gradually reduces the vehicle speed.
The automatic driving light control system works at speeds above 40 km / h, switching on or off the driving beam automatically, depending on the brightness of the surroundings and the presence of passing or preceding vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles).

The new, higher resolution wide-angle camera replaced the previous generation Jazz model of the City-Brake Active System (CTBA) multi-functional camera and sensor. The camera recognizes a wider range of pavement types and traffic scenarios. These include monitoring whether the vehicle is approaching the outer edge of the pavement (to the grass or gravel boundary), to the oncoming vehicle or turning into another lane without road markings or signs. The camera can eliminate the problem of fogging, providing a clear field of view non-stop.

The operator can personalize the amount of information on advanced driver assistance systems displayed on a seven-inch liquid crystal touch screen (LCD).

Passive safety built into the Jazz structure

The new Jazz has a structure developed according to the Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering ™ (ACE ™) technology concept, which extends passenger protection in the event of a collision and is the basis for excellent passive safety properties.

A skeleton of interconnected structural elements distributes the collision energy in the front of the vehicle more evenly, reducing the forces transmitted to the passenger compartment. The ACE ™ structure not only protects the car and passengers by dissipating collision energy throughout the body structure, but also reduces kinetic energy transferred to other vehicles involved in the collision. ACE ™’s range of passenger protection covers collisions with both large and small vehicles

Passive safety, which consists in protecting passengers in the event of an accident, is just as important to Honda as active safety. Jazza owners and passengers are now protected by ten airbags, including two new rear side airbags installed in the seats and a new front center airbag located in the front seat. The new central front airbag is the first on the market in this segment and protects against injuries caused by collision of passengers’ bodies during a collision. Jazz was also equipped with front headrests limiting the risk of back injury.

Source: HONDA