Sorry I can't understand someone comparing two different cars, knowing that a complete redesign is involved and assuming they will be the same or even similar.
The essential character of the car is intentionally similar to its predecessors, and the Mark 3 is closer to the Mark 1 and 2 than any other car.
+1
I had the choice of a Mk2 or waiting for a Mk3. I am glad I bought the Mk2 for better ground clearance, bigger windows, more boot which is what I was looking for. Plus I do not have the distractions of all the cheapo electronic auto gadgets which I don't need (thanks), nor the extra rear leg room (a waste of space), nor the touch screen (which for me would be a bore), nor the one year wait, nor the longer car nor a higher car (more difficult to clean). I am very glad I did not wait. I probably wouldn't have bought the Mk3 once I had seen it. The Mk 3 is the same concept as the Mk2 but, for me, less well executed. At least I now will have a car for another 10 years which fits my needs.
Newer is not always better.
Most newer models from all manufacturers now have lower ground clearance. No doubt a styling "trend". Even the HRV is only the standard 185mm compared with what used to be the standard 200mm for that type of vehicle.
The ground clearance on a MK3 Jazz is the same as a Porsche.
Different design cars for the same market sector will retain the model name because of the brand value/ investment held by the manufacturer in the name. The Civic is a good example. The current Civic model bears no resemblance to the previous Civic model which actually is very much more like the current Mk 3 Jazz.
