HONDA'S new hybrid-only Jazz supermini will be capable of up to 62.8mpg when it goes on sale in the summer.

The first model to feature the Japanese car maker's e:HEV technology, it has been rated under the new WLTP fuel test regulations with a CO2 figure of 102g/km - almost a 20 per cent improvement over the current model with its conventional powertrain.

The e:HEV system isnewly developed for Jazz and comprises twocompact electric motorsconnected toa 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine, a lithium-ion battery and a fixed-gear transmission.

The hybrid set up plays a key role in Honda's commitment that 100 per cent of its mainstream European sales will feature electrified powertrains by 2022.

With a total power output of 109ps the new Jazz is said to have a 0 to 60mph acceleration time of 9.4 seconds and a top speed of 108mph.

Three drive modes will be available - pure electric, hybrid with both engine and electric motor in play and an ‘engine drive' setting which uses the electric motor only as an on-demand peak power boost for faster acceleration.

Honda says that in most urban driving situations, optimum efficiency will be achieved through seamless transitions between EV Drive and Hybrid Drive.

A single fixed-gear ratio has been developed for the new Jazz which creates a direct connection between moving components, resulting in a smoother transfer of torque and a linear feel during acceleration - a format Honda says is more compact than a planetary eCVT typically found in other hybrid vehicles.

However, luggage capacity has been reduced to accommodate some of the hybrid gubbins and now ranges from 298 litres to 1,203 litres compared to the 354 litres and 1.314 maximum of the current model.

An upgraded suite of advanced safety features and driver aids will be standard, with a newly developed front wide view camera that enhances the field of vision.

Honda‘s Collision Mitigation Braking System has been improved with night-time operation to detect pedestrians and cyclists, and now applies the brakes to avoid a collision when the car cuts across or turns into the path of an oncoming vehicle.

For the first time on a Jazz, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist system are available as standard as is a road departure mitigation system. Blind spot information with a cross traffic monitor is standard on executive grades.

Prices for the new Jazz are still to be announced.