Honda Jazz 2020 revealed: Australian arrival likely at least one year away

Honda’s new-generation Jazz – or Fit, as it is known overseas – has been officially uncovered at this week’s Tokyo motor show, though the brand’s Australian arm says it is still too early to confirm any local details.

CarsGuide understands that an update to the existing third-generation Jazz is scheduled for next year, which would push the arrival of the just-revealed fourth-generation version to 2021.

Now sporting a redesigned exterior, the new five-door Jazz light hatch retains its predecessors’ diminutive proportions, but now has larger headlights and simpler front-end styling.

The new Jazz is also the first Honda model to sport a “body stabilising seat” for front occupants, which is designed to make “long driving less tiring and enables the use to enjoy the soft feeling of the seat,” according to Honda.

The second-row seats retain the 18-fold function for flexibility, while the rest of the interior is also simplified to match the pared down exterior.

A two-spoke steering wheel with integrated buttons now sits in front of a large digital display, while a floating multimedia screen is positioned above HVAC controls.

Inside features a two-spoke steering wheel with integrated buttons.

In overseas markets, five different versions of the Fit will be made available – Basic, Home, Ness, Crosstar and Luxe.

Differentiating the five will be slight changes to exterior styling and unique interior materials, however the Crosstar will sport black-plastic wheelarch cladding for a faux SUV look.

Engine choices are still to be fully detailed, however Honda has confirmed a two-motor petrol-electric hybrid system.

Safety systems will also be lifted thanks to the standard inclusion of Honda’s ‘Sensing’ advanced driver safety systems, including a wide-angle front camera and eight sonar sensors that enable short-distance collision mitigation braking.

Connected services will also debut on the Jazz, which allows the control of certain vehicle functions via smartphone, emergency service support and security services.

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Honda Motor Company CEO and president Takahiro Hachigo said the new light hatchback was designed as the benchmark for the segment.

“What we strive to do with this all-new Fit is to establish the standard for compact cars suited to this new era,” he said.

“We developed this vehicle not merely as a means of transportation for our customers. We strived for a vehicle which will become a part of our customers’ daily lives and make their daily lives more comfortable and enjoyable.

“This is a compact car for the new era and this vehicle will set a new standard for Honda automobile development.”