Honda has a whole line-up of exciting things ready for the Geneva Motor Show next month - we've already reported on the new strains of the majestic Civic Type R, for instance - and now it has confirmed the all-new Jazz and its Crosstar derivative will be part of its Swiss showpiece too.
e:HEV power
Both the Jazz and Jazz Crosstar are part of a range of electrified products and energy management innovations operating underneath Honda's new e:Technology branding, so alongside the new city superminis will be the Japanese marque's oh-so-cute e runaround EV. The Jazz twins and the Honda e represent the first two of six vehicles to be launched between now and 2022, seeing all of the brand's mainstream models electrified by that year.
The Jazz itself features an advanced 'e:HEV' (in Honda-speak) drivetrain, which the manufacturer says results in a 'city car that combines exceptional efficiency with ultimate usability'. This comprises two compact, energy-dense e-motors connected to a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine, a lithium-ion battery and a fixed-gear transmission linked up to an intelligent power-control unit.
Beyond the running gear, the Jazz now has a much funkier-looking design, losing its former 'MPV'-like appearance for a smoother, more futuristic vibe. Honda promises that it still has the interior space and practicality that makes the Jazz such a good supermini, however, and it will also pack the latest infotainment tech and in-car connectivity - as well as Honda Personal Assistant, an 'integrated AI agent' first seen in the Honda e.
Crossover Crosstar
The Crosstar is the bigger news, perhaps. It's a rugged, SUV-inspired crossover version of the Jazz, although it's not entirely without precedent - for the Mk3 model, Honda did a version called the X-Road for elsewhere in the world, although this version didn't manage to make its way to the Irish market. The Jazz Crosstar, which will take on the likes of the Kia Picanto X-Line, the Hyundai i20 Active and the Ford Fiesta Active, has the same hybrid powertrain as the regular hatchback, only it features an increased ride height, water-resistant interior upholstery and integrated roof rails. There's also a bolder design for the front grille, lots of black trim and distinctive side sills, as well as Crosstar-specific alloy wheels which widen towards the rim.
Alongside the Jazz, Jazz Crosstar and Honda e in Geneva, there will also be two versions of the CR-V Hybrid on show under the e:Technology banner, as well as the aforementioned trio of Civic Type Rs, the 2020 Red Bull Racing RB16 Formula 1 car, the Repsol Honda Team MotoGP RC213V motorcycle and the Monster Energy Honda Team CRF450 Rally motorcycle, fresh from its 2020 Dakar Rally triumph.