Honda Jazz 2017 pricing and spec confirmed

Honda is recharging all its Australian models with fresh looks, uprated features and, in the case of the new Jazz, unchanged or modestly increased prices.

The Jazz puts on a new face for its model year 2018 version, changing the grille, bumpers, and wheel designs, while adding 7.0-inch touchscreen audio for all grades and built-in satellite navigation on the top shelf VTi-S and VTi-L variants.

Technology upgrades extend to bi-LED headlights and LED daytime running lights on the top-spec VTi-L.

The VTi-L adds paddle shifters, a six-speaker stereo, rear parking sensors, and climate control. (VTi-L variant shown)

The three grade Jazz line-up remains, starting with the base VTi, offered with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission, and the automatic-only VTi-S and VTi-L. All come standard with Honda's new five-year, unlimited distance warranty.

Honda's pricing for the Jazz starts at $14,990 plus on-road costs for the VTi manual, matching the kick-off point of the outgoing model. It is also being offered with a driveaway price of $16,990.

Opting for the CVT auto adds $2000 to the price of the VTi.

The VTi comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, LED tail-lights, electric door mirrors, cruise control, black fabric trim, power windows, a 12V power outlet, four-speaker stereo, 'Magic Seats' and a multi-angle reversing camera, while 7.0-inch touchscreen audio replaces the old 6.1-inch unit.

The VTi comes standard with cruise control, reversing camera, a 7.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system, and 'Magic Seats'. (VTi-L variant shown)

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Magic Seats is Honda's seat arrangement system that lets you fold, lift, and tuck the seats to 18 different configurations.

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Wheel designs have changed, and there is a new paint colour – 'Phoenix Orange pearlescent' – to add to the six existing choices. (VTi-L variant shown)

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All paint colours except 'Rally Red' are metallic or pearlescent, attracting a $495 premium.

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The VTi-S mid-spec Jazz is now $19,990 plus on-road costs, a rise of $200, although it now comes with new 16-inch alloy wheels, a tailgate spoiler, LED headlights and a built-in sat-nav system.

It also comes standard with fog lights, 'premium' fabric trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, side skirts, and electrically retractable door mirrors.

Honda's flagship Jazz, the VTi-L, is now $22,990 plus on-road costs, an increase of $500, and as well as the aforementioned VTi-L additions it features paddle shifters, a six-speaker stereo, rear parking sensors, climate control and a leather gear shifter.

Buyers can now opt for a personalised 'Luxe Pack' on all versions. This adds black alloy wheels, door visors, bonnet protector, alloy pedals, carpet mats and a luggage tray. It costs $1498 fitted.

Wheel designs have also changed and there is a new paint colour – 'Phoenix Orange pearlescent' – to add to the six existing choices. All paint colours except 'Rally Red' are metallic or pearlescent, attracting a $495 premium.

Honda has carried over the 88kW/145Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine for all versions.

The Jazz is the latest Honda to undergo a makeover or a complete model change. Honda last week released its all-new CR-V SUV and later this year will introduce the Civic Type R to the range.

Are the changes enough to sway you to a Honda Jazz over a Mazda2 or Toyota Yaris? Tell us what you think in the comments below.