I do think Honda has missed an opportunity with the Crosstar. As well as raising the ground clearance a bit they have added roof bars and plastic body styling etc to make it more like an SUV. To perhaps appeal more to younger buyers. But they have had to drop some useful specifications to keep the price down compared to other SUV's on the market.
Fair enough wanting to attract more buyers from younger generations. But in the UK at least the Jazz is popular with older drivers (for good reasons ) My dealership has told me they rely heavily on the sale of Jazz through the motability scheme (Government assistance for those with mobility issues and their carers) And if this forum is anything to go by quite a few chose the crosstar primarily because the extra ground clearance makes it slightly easier to get in and out. (every little bit helps,and not just in Tesco)
Honda should produce an easier access Jazz. Fit the taller springs etc for extra height, keep the traffic monitoring gismos, but omit the expensive roof bars and styling stuff. They could also fit adjustable height passenger seat , and maybe a slightly different seat design to make sliding in and out easier, and perhaps other subtle aids such as extra grab handle etc. Discreetly marketed as more user friendly but not so over the top and different that younger buyers wouldnt be seen dead in one.
Most of the parts that are different are already available on the production line and wouldnt increase production cost by much. But I suspect Honda will be more concerned about demographics. Attracting younger buyers who may remain brand loyal to Honda for many more years.
