Happenings

The all-new Honda Jazz arrives in Singapore

BY Marcus Lim

Honda’s most-loved little hatchback gets revamped and electrified

Official Honda distributor Kah Motor has announced that the all-new, fourth-generation Jazz is available immediately for booking, with three trim levels presently available.

Despite its naturally-aspirated predecessors already being known for their frugality at the pumps, the all-new Jazz introduces a hybrid version for the very first time. Two of the three models available – the 1.5 Base and 1.5 Home – are powered by a conventional 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine which produces 121 bhp and 145 Nm.

Enter the range-topping 1.5 Luxe e:HEV model, which features a 1.5-litre engine mated to a hybrid powertrain for a mix of fuel economy and effortless acceleration. Newly developed for the Jazz, this e:HEV system combines a petrol engine with two powerful drive motors; however, unlike a typical hybrid vehicle, the engine and electric motor operate independently.

On the move, this hybrid system seamlessly selects from three interchangeable drive modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive. At lower speeds, EV Drive mode is engaged, where the lithium-ion battery supplies power to the electric propulsion motor directly. Should there be insufficient charge, Hybrid Drive mode kicks in, where the engine supplies power to the electric generator motor, which in turn supplies it to the electric motor. At high speeds, Engine Drive mode is used, where the petrol engine is connected directly to the wheels.

Redesigned from the ground up, the all-new Jazz follows Honda’s new design philosophy based on the Japanese notion of ‘yoo no bi’. This is the concept of refining everyday items over time, to make them more beautiful and ergonomically satisfying to use.

For starters, the A-pillar thickness has been reduced over 50% to just 55mm. The windscreen wipers have now also been hidden beneath the windscreen visible edge, increasing the occupants’ field of vision to a massive 90 degrees. Inside, the new dashboard sports a chic twin-spoke steering wheel and digital cluster, replacing the analog unit found in the outgoing model. There’s also a new 9-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system.

Prices start at $94,999 with COE for the entry-level 1.5 Base, and $97,999 for the better-equipped 1.5 Home. Thanks to a $15,000 rebate under the enhanced VES scheme, the 1.5 Luxe e:HEV is priced at a rather affordable $99,999 with COE. First deliveries are expected before the middle of the year.

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