Honda Jazz & Jazz Crosstar Get A Facelift for 2023

Honda has refreshed the Jazz and Jazz Crosstar model range with new, sportier styling, alongside an increase in both power and the level of standard equipment on all grades.

New design elements such as revised bumpers create a more cohesive, characterful aesthetic, which better reflect the car’s dynamic personality, while retaining the iconic shape of the Jazz with the clean, crisp horizontal lines first introduced on the fourth-generation model. The more rugged Crosstar variant also receives design revisions to exterior and interior trim to bolster its already purposeful design.

Revised grading logic begins with the generously equipped Elegance, offering an increased level of standard features, including a new leather-trimmed steering wheel, a rear facing camera, and vanity mirror illumination. The new range topping Advance Sport grade receives several exclusive design features and chassis revisions to elevate the car’s dynamic performance and visual appeal.

Honda’s e:HEV hybrid technology continues to be specified as standard on both the Jazz and Jazz Crosstar – now with a 10kW increase in power for a smoother, more refined driving experience. The two-motor powertrain has been upgraded to increase responsiveness and driveability while maintaining the exceptional efficiency for which the e:HEV system is renowned, with CO2 emissions and fuel efficiency remaining the same as before.

The refreshed Jazz range builds on the most comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver aids in its class, the Traffic Jam Assist function has been upgraded to now feature steering support from 0 km/h, reducing the burden on the driver when navigating traffic.

The updated Jazz can also now be selected with a tow bar accessory with a capacity of up to 500kg, expanding the model’s already exceptional levels of usability.

Sharper, more stylish and more practical than ever, the new Jazz and Jazz Crosstar models continue to offer a complete package that appeals to both head and heart.

  1. Exterior styling refresh enhances model’s sporty appeal
  • Refreshed front and rear bumper design creates a sportier appearance
  • Popular Crosstar grade receives new grille and bumper garnish
  • Advance Sport grade features exclusive new design touches

The Honda Jazz has received a sporty new facelift that creates a more characterful and purposeful design. Its refreshed appearance builds on the model’s iconic shape and clean, crisp horizontal lines with dynamic touches that give it a new personality.

These enhancements stay true to Honda’s original Japanese 'Yoo no bi’ design philosophy – recognising the beauty in everyday items refined over time, to make them even more beautiful and ergonomically satisfying for their specific purpose.

This more characterful style, with a greater degree of sophistication and sportiness, is evident on both Elegance and Advance grades. Not only through the refreshed honeycomb grille design and grained lower front bumper insert, but also with a more sculpted appearance and grained material finish to the rear bumper.

The window frames and pillar trim now feature a more stylish matte black finish that seamlessly matches with materials used on other exterior trim surfaces. On all Jazz grades the headlight projector ring surround is now finished in black, creating a more characterful expression.

New Advance Sport grade introduces a greater degree of sophistication with a gloss black finish on the honeycomb grille lower bumper, and door mirror casing. The new grade also gains matching side skirts, a rear spoiler, and chrome exhaust trim.

An exterior refresh has also been applied to the Jazz Crosstar with a new honeycomb grille and revised front bumper design that transform the front end. The new bumper features revised fog light surrounds and a central, silver trim insert designed to look like under body protection.

The Crosstar’s side skirts and rear bumper have also been redesigned to complement its more rugged and purposeful appearance, featuring the same silver under body protection style inserts. This redesign emphasises the purposeful stance created by its increased ride height over the standard Jazz, in addition to integrated roof rails.

Customers can also choose from a new stand-out ‘Fjord Mist’ paint colour, offered exclusively on Crosstar Advance grades.

The range of alloy wheels is upgraded across all grades. Elegance grades feature a light grey inner lip, with dark grey spoke inserts, while Advance grades have a diamond cut main spoke finished with a black trim insert. For the Advance Sport there is a new dynamic 16-inch diamond cut alloy wheel featuring black contrast accents, with Crosstar wheels retaining their previous design, but now finished in a metallic dark grey metallic to heighten the body colour contrast.

Advance Sport grades are available in two exclusive colours – a new Urban Grey and Platinum White that accompany the gloss black bumpers and trim.

  1. Interior design evolution brings greater sophistication
  • New surface materials and seat options create more sophisticated interior
  • Model’s class-leading interior quality enhanced by darker theme
  • Passenger and cargo space remains best-in-class

The refreshed Jazz and Jazz Crosstar feature interior design upgrades throughout the cabin, including new surface materials and seat options, that maintain the modern minimalist aesthetic of the current model and follow the same 'Yoo no bi' design philosophy as the exterior.

In Elegance and Advance grades, the black interior trim has been lightly revised and updated for 2023 through the application of new seat fabric that features a new design.

On Crosstar grades the interior also sees the addition of new transmission tunnel edging and a revised black water-repellent seat fabric, while the cup holders positioned at the outer edges of the dashboard are now finished in the same gloss black finish to compliment the new dash and door panel material.

In all models and grades the collar trim for the gear switch selector is also upgraded to silver, while the door switch trim now receives a matte finish consistent with other touchpoints alongside a new, frameless rear-view mirror for Advance grades onwards.

A sportier option

The new Advance Sport grade introduces several sports-focused styling features, including a three-spoke steering wheel detailed with yellow stitching and featuring paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, which control brake regeneration force.

It also features a unique combination of black and grey synthetic suede and prime smooth synthetic leather, with yellow stitching to match the steering wheel and door card trim. Metal sports pedals round out the sporting make over.

Comfortable, feel-good interior

The interior revisions to the fourth generation Jazz enhance the model’s minimalist aesthetic, wrapping utility, practicality and functionality in a simple, uncluttered and ergonomic cabin. The user-focused dashboard incorporates a slim instrument panel that sweeps horizontally across the cabin, with no visor effect that restricts the field of vision and further enhances the sense of spaciousness.

Honda places ultimate usability at the core of its design ethos, making the central 9-inch HMI touchscreen and 7-inch full TFT instrument cluster – included as standard –simple and easy to read. All convenience features and controls are easy to reach and use, contributing to a stress-free driving experience.

Adding to the model’s everyday usability, the Jazz boasts an impressive luggage capacity of 304 litres, which grows to 1,205 litres with the rear seats down.

Interior space is further enhanced by positioning the fuel tank beneath the front seats in the centre of the chassis, which is unique in the Jazz’s class. This allows it to retain the versatile rear Magic Seat configuration with both fold-flat or flip-up flexibility, to create a versatile cargo space. The design also retains the  wide aperture tailgate opening and stepless flat floor for easier loading of larger items.

Front seat occupants also benefit from Honda's body stabilising seat frame with premium mat-structure support, which increases comfort levels and provides greater lumbar support to minimise fatigue. To further increase driver comfort, the position of the brake pedal optimises foot angle to offer a more natural foot placement.

Class-leading rear leg space of 986mm is made possible by the cleverly packaged rear suspension layout and e:HEV component packaging, while revised seat padding thickness ensures adults can sit comfortably in the second row.

  1. Honda’s e:HEV hybrid technology upgraded to increase power
  • Total powertrain output increased from 80kW to 90kW
  • Throttle response is improved for more dynamic performance
  • Additional power has not seen an increase in CO2 emissions

The Honda Jazz e:HEV powertrain offers an increase in maximum power output with improved acceleration performance and refinement. The result is an even more dynamic driving experience while retaining its exceptional efficiency.

Total powertrain output is increased to 90kW / 122 PS (from 80kW / 109 PS), with 253 Nm of electric propulsion torque. This increase in the overall system output is achieved through a 10kW increase in power from the traction motor, whilst engine power has also been increased to 79kW / 107 PS (from 72kW / 97 PS) to improve driveability and overall system efficiency.

Despite the increase in power output, the fuel-efficient hybrid system still produces CO2 emissions from 102 g/km (WLTP) and fuel economy of 4.5l/100km (WLTP) on the Jazz and 109 g/km (WLTP) and 4.8l/100km (WLTP) on the Jazz Crosstar.  

Despite performance-focused upgrades on the new Advance Sport grade, emissions are in line with other trim levels – producing just 105g/km (WLTP) CO2 and fuel economy of 4.6l/100km (WLTP).

Award-winning e:HEV technology

Honda has continuously evolved its e:HEV technology, drawing on more than 20 years’ experience of designing, building and refining hybrid drive systems. The Jazz became the first Honda model to be sold exclusively across Europe with an advanced hybrid powertrain when it launched in 2020, with HR-V, CR-V and mainstream Civic models following suit. This completed Honda’s pledge to have electrified its entire European automotive range by 2022.

The e:HEV system consists of two compact, energy-dense electric motors connected to a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, a lithium-ion battery and an innovative fixed-gear transmission via an intelligent power control unit – all of which work harmoniously together to provide a smooth and direct response. Honda has developed these high-speed electric motors to be as lightweight, compact, and efficient as possible.

This advanced e:HEV hybrid set-up seamlessly selects from three continuously interchangeable drive modes:

  • EV Drive: Lithium-ion battery supplying direct power to the electric propulsion motor
  • Hybrid Drive: Engine supplying power to the electric generator motor, which in turn supplies the electric propulsion motor
  • Engine Drive: Petrol engine connects directly to the wheels via a lock-up clutch

When driving in most urban locations, optimum efficiency is achieved through seamless transitions between EV and Hybrid Drive, while Engine Drive is used for motorway speeds. The latter is supplemented by an on-demand peak power ‘boost’ from the electric propulsion motor for faster acceleration, with 253Nm of torque that also provides substantial low-speed acceleration.

In Hybrid Drive, excess power from the petrol engine can be diverted to recharge the battery via the generator motor, while a similar effect can also be achieved in EV Drive, harvesting energy through regenerative braking.

Switching between the three driving modes is seamless, with minimised lag during transitions. This is thanks to an automatic transmission that creates a direct connection between moving components, resulting in a smooth and reassuring transfer of torque with a linear feel during acceleration across all drive modes.

In addition, control software ensures the engine can provide maximum torque for longer when accelerating, even at lower revs – similar to the output from a multi-stage-type transmission. This optimised torque output, with more responsive and consistent delivery, is a key component of Jazz’s fun-to-drive character.

To maximise efficiency in Engine Drive mode, the engine can run at its most efficient across a range of output speeds. When more power is required, the ratio of the transmission can be changed to allow the engine to turn at the RPM which produces the greatest output. This also improves engine sound when more torque is demanded and avoids unwanted noise from overrevving.

  1. New driving dynamics with Advance Sport grade
  • Chassis upgrades provide a more exhilarating driving experience
  • Enhancements are designed to not encroach on existing levels of NVH
  • Advance Sport grade comes with a larger alloy wheel and lower profile Yokohama tyres as standard

In addition to its enhanced exterior styling, the new Advance Sport grade features several chassis updates and a new dynamic driving mode to provide a more engaging experience for Jazz owners looking for sportier performance.

Improved distribution of front-to-rear roll stiffness helps reduce lateral roll for more stable and flatter cornering at speed. This is achieved through an 8% decrease in spring rate at the front and 20% at the rear, while bush stiffness up 6%, and both damper bound and rebound forces are increased.

The latest Jazz also receives a new dynamic Sport setting that, when selected, further sharpens throttle response, with a revised linear shift control logic that holds each gear longer under hard acceleration.

Coupled with enhanced audio feedback when the Jazz is driven more enthusiastically, which sees engine noise fed into the cabin via the vehicle’s speakers, this makes for a much greater sense of engagement.

Exceptional agility and best-in-class ride comfort
The enhanced chassis on the Jazz Advance Sport is possible thanks to the base model’s exceptional body rigidity and a high ratio of tensile strength steel – which also help reduce weight and improve crash performance. The aluminium die-cast rear damper mount structure, friction-bush design and rear torsion beam suspension layout work together to help deliver outstanding ride comfort and driving enjoyment.

The front suspension geometry has a low front roll centre to enhance stability, which helps the Jazz feel precise, natural and agile when cornering, as does the electric power-assisted steering system, which delivers accurate feedback and a more natural direction-changing response.

Low friction suspension components also combine with the long wheelbase to provide an impressive base level of stability by naturally reducing longitudinal pitching motions for a more settled, composed ride.

Responsive handling combined with an enhanced ride is achieved through Honda’s Agile Handling Assist (AHA) system. This advanced technology improves the dynamic stability of the car, particularly when reacting to fast steering inputs or high cornering loads – during emergency avoidance manoeuvres for example.

AHA operates through the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system and lightly applies the brakes to the inner wheels when the steering wheel is turned. The result is high levels of responsiveness and stability for safer and more engaging driving.

Reassuring stopping power is delivered by an all-disc braking system featuring 262mm ventilated front and 239mm solid discs at the rear and supported by Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA).

 

  1. Advanced in-car technology connects owners to their everyday lives
  • Seamless, intuitive in-car connectivity offers flexible infotainment for users
  • WiFi hotspot and My Honda+ app keep occupants connected on the move
  • Range of connectivity packages also enhance the ownership experience

The all-new Jazz continues to offer a highly compelling infotainment package to customers combining intuitive technology with seamless in-car connectivity. Infotainment features and apps can be accessed via touchscreen or voice activation, including weather, parking locations, music, navigation, location finding, and telephone services.

The simple-to-use LCD HMI touchscreen was designed to minimise driver distraction; with clear colourful tiles for all apps, and physical controls for key functions providing a safer and more ergonomic experience. All heating and ventilation settings are controlled through physical buttons or precise-feeling dials for a tactile experience.

The system interface is navigated using familiar smartphone-style usability, with swipe controls to scroll through pages and lists. The display can be configured to suit any usage requirements, incorporating customisable shortcuts to frequently used functions and audio sources.

The comprehensive suite of in-built apps can be supplemented by smartphone mirroring, enabled by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with the latter available via wireless connection for the first time in the Jazz. Occupants can also benefit from in-car WiFi to keep them connected to web services while on the move.

My Honda+ app

The Jazz’s built in connectivity functions are supplemented by the comprehensive My Honda+ smartphone app and add on packages, which can remotely connect owners to their car and has been designed to provide a simple, intuitive user experience. The system can also give secure access to a range of in-car functions, including convenience and security features.

Jazz will be offered with Core Connectivity*, Safety and Journey**, and In-Car WiFi*** subscription packages, offering a wide range of useful functions to users that help enhance the ownership experience.

For example, the Core Connectivity package allows owners to enrol their car within the app, storing it in a virtual garage to see key vehicle data, remotely lock or unlock the car from the smartphone, and even sound the horn – for use should the owner struggle to find the car in a busy car park. Other benefits to the package include remote climate control to pre-set interior temperatures before a journey, meaning owners always get a warm welcome to the car, whilst dealers can share and send digital health check results directly to owners. The eVHC platform can be accessed through the app, allowing owners to liaise with dealers directly, authorise any work required, or request a contact from the local dealership.

Safety and Journey functions allow owners to plan their routes via the app, as well as keep track of previous journeys, pin-point the car at any time through the locator function, and offer supplementary roadside support that can dispatch an assistance provider to an owner’s exact location should they have a problem.

For additional security, My Honda+ provides location monitoring and car tracking via GPS. Intelligent geofencing can also be activated to alert the owner if the vehicle breaches a pre-set zone, and send a security notification if the car's security alarm is activated.

(*Core Connectivity complimentary to the first named owner)

(**Safety & Journey complimentary for one year, and subscription based thereafter)

(*** In-Car WiFi costs dependent on usage and chosen service provider)

  1. New SENSING features improve Honda’s comprehensive suite of safety technologies
  • Traffic Jam Assist has been upgraded to feature steering support from 0km/h
  • Industry-leading Honda SENSING active and passive safety technology
    offered as standard across all models for a Euro NCAP 5 star rating
  • Occupants are protected by 10 airbags, including knee and centre protection

The latest-generation Jazz incorporates a suite of premium active and passive safety technologies designed to make driving both easier and safer as standard.

Honda engineers have upgraded the Traffic Jam Assist function, which now features steering support from 0km/h to reduce the driving burden when in stop-start traffic.

Enhanced Honda SENSING active safety technology offers a broad range of driver assistance features and aids as standard, thanks to a front wide-view camera with a broader field of vision and night-time operation, increasing safety in more situations.

The camera recognises a comprehensive range of road surface and traffic characteristics, while also eliminating fogging for a constantly clear field of view.

Enhanced Honda SENSING technologies include:

  • Collision Mitigation Braking System: Applies the brakes when the Jazz cuts across or turns into the path of a car. It can also detect pedestrians and cyclists when there is no street lighting at night.
  • Adaptive Cruise Control: Manages the gap to the car in front and allows the car to follow vehicles at low speeds when in congestion (Low Speed Follow)
  • Lane Keep Assist: Helps keep the Jazz centred in a detected lane, applying steering assistance if it the vehicle is drifting out and operating from 72km/h urban and rural roads – as well as multi-lane highways
  • Road Departure Mitigation System: Helps the driver stay on the road, by alerting them if the vehicle approaches the outer edge of the pavement (into a kerb, grass or gravel border), an oncoming vehicle, or drifting into another lane without indicating
  • Blind Spot Information: Standard on Advance and Advance Sport grades and comes complete with Cross Traffic Monitor
  • Traffic Sign Recognition System: Uses the front wide-view camera to detect speed limit and ‘no passing’ road signs whenever the vehicle is moving forward and displays these on the seven-inch LCD display. Two road signs can be displayed at any one time – the right side only shows speed limit signs, while the left shows ‘No Passing’ signs and speed limits with additional information, such as weather conditions
  • Intelligent Speed Limiter: Recognises traffic signs and sets the speed limit accordingly. If a slower speed is shown compared to what the vehicle is doing, an indicator on the display will flash with an alarm sound and the system will gradually decreases speed
  • Auto High-Beam: Works at speeds of more than 25mph to automatically switch high beam head lights on or off depending on oncoming and preceding vehicles (cars, trucks and motorcycles), bicycles and environmental light

The driver can decide how much driver assistance information from the above is displayed on the seven-inch TFT liquid crystal display (LCD) instrument binnacle.

Passive safety engineered into the Jazz structure

The Jazz features Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure technology, which forms the foundation for excellent passive safety performance, enhancing occupant crash protection.

A network of connected structural elements distributes crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, reducing the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. ACE™ not only protects the car and its passengers by dispersing the collision energy, it also reduces the collision energy against the other vehicle too. This helps protect occupants from collisions with large and small vehicles alike.

Passive safety is as important to Honda as active safety to protect occupants in the event of an accident. Jazz owners and passengers are protected by 10 airbags, including two in the rear seats and a central one installed in the front seat. The latter is unique to the Jazz in its class and activates in the event of a collision to reduce impact caused by contact between passengers. The Jazz is also fitted with whiplash-mitigating front headrests as an additional safety precaution.