Honda has confirmed that it will launch a hybrid version of its Jazz supermini at the Paris motor show at the end of next month. The Jazz hybrid will share many of its components with the Insight, including that car’s 1.3-litre petrol engine-based hybrid powertrain.
The engine/electric motor mix is mated to a CVT gearbox and, like the Insight; the Jazz will be able to run on electric power alone in low-speed conditions. The new model gets a few visual cues to make it stand out from regular Jazz variants, including revised headlights with a blue surround, clear tail-lights, a new front grille, different bumpers and flashes of chrome on the rear hatch. However, it remains to be seen whether this mild facelift will be carried on to the conventional Jazz/Fit models or it will be exclusive for the Hybrid version.
The interior gets a single-colour dashboard and blue-lit dials and instruments. Leather trim will also be offered for the first time on a Jazz in Europe. The Japanese manufacturer has yet to reveal any details on emissions or fuel economy figures for the car, which will go on sale in the UK next spring.
Honda had earlier launched the Civic hybrid in the Indian market which didn’t find as many buyers due to the astronomical premium demanded by the manufacturer. The Jazz hybrid, when launched in India, will surely demand a slight premium over the conventional petrol version. If priced right, the hybrid hatch could give a boost to the hybrid vehicle segment in India.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
