Honda Malaysia has updated the Honda Jazz range. Besides upgrades to the features offered, a hybrid variant has been added.
The New Jazz Hybrid has the same 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engine as the petrol version with an integrated high power motor for faster acceleration. In place of the CVT gearbox in the regular Jazz, the Hybrid has a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. The new hybrid system is powered by a Lithium-Ion battery with 1.5 times its energy capacity and is 50% more powerful than its predecessor, the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system despite being 5.6% smaller in size. On Sport-mode, the Sport Hybrid i-DCD provides a maximum combined output of up to 135bhp from the engine and electric motor, the same output as a 1.8-litre engine.
The fuel-efficiency of the New Jazz Hybrid is claimed to be 4.0L/100km. It is a full hybrid with full Electric Vehicle (EV) mode. The air-conditioning system of the Sport Hybrid i-DCD is driven by the motor compressor which, unlike the previous IMA, is able to maintain cabin temperature at idle. This improved system allows a comfortable ride for everyone in the vehicle even during high traffic conditions.
The New Jazz Hybrid is offered in one trim level, with the same equipment as the E spec petrol Jazz. There are also features unique to the hybrid: the Shift by Wire Gear for the Sport Hybrid i-DCD system and 3D Speed Meter Design (Multi-Information Display). This multi-info display shows information such as Energy Flow, Sport Meter, Fuel Economy, Drive Info, Customisation and Eco Display – all right at the driver’s line of vision. The New Jazz Hybrid is also fitted with Cruise Control.
Meanwhile, the petrol Jazz trim line-up remains with the V variant at the top of the range followed by the E, with the S variant as the entry-level model. There are no any changes to the 1.5-litre engine or CVT gearbox.
External upgrades are the new chrome front grille and new front and rear bumper design, and new rim stylings although the rim sizes are unchanged,15-inch for the S and E variants, 16-inch for the V. Both the E & V variants now have LED daytime running lights and a reverse camera.
Across the range, equipment upgrades include smart entry, push-button ignition and the inclusion of an ECON button. The V variant is now offered with paddle shifts and cruise control, half-leather seats. Both the E and V trim will have new 6.8-inch displays for the infotainment system. The touch panel automatic airconditioning in the V variant is now also in the E model.
The new Jazz has a 5-star ASEAN NCAP Safety rating. Brake Assist and ABS are standard across the range. The V trim keeps the six airbags while the E gets an upgrade to four airbags, which will also be fitted in the Hybrid. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and Hill Start Assist (HSA) are available in the E, V and Sport Hybrid variants.
The New Jazz Petrol is offered in 5 colours: Modern Steel Metallic, Lunar Silver Metallic, Carnival Red, Taffeta White and Crystal Black Pearl whereas the New Jazz Hybrid will be available in Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and White Orchid Pearl.
The warranty for both the Jazz Petrol and Jazz Hybrid is five years with unlimited mileage. In addition, the Lithium-Ion battery in the Hybrid is covered by an eight year warranty on the on top of the standard warranty.
The New Jazz Hybrid is RM87,500 while the New Jazz Petrol is priced as follows; RM74,800 for S variant; RM81,000 for E variant and RM88,400 for V variant. The prices are on-the-road with insurance.