A Honda first for the super-minis
SOUNDS GREAT: Honda?s Jazz hybrid, due for release in 2011
Sunday August 29 2010
Honda has announced that it will launch a hybrid version of its popular Jazz, making it the first super-mini to use such technology.
Due to go on sale from early next year, the Jazz borrows the hybrid drivetrain from Honda's Insight, meaning a 1.3-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor and CVT gearbox.
Despite having a smaller footprint than the Insight, the Jazz is said to offer comparable fuel economy and CO2 emissions on account of its height (a trait which makes it one of the most practical super-minis on the market today).
So although official figures have yet to be released, you can expect the Jazz to roughly match the Insight's 61.4mpg urban fuel consumption figure and 101g/km emissions.
Honda says that the Jazz will be able to run on its electric motor alone under "some medium- and low-speed conditions".
The new hybrid, which is due to debut at next month's Paris Motor Show, will be distinguished from other Jazz models by revised headlights complete with blue surround, a new front grille, clear rear lights and re-styled bumpers.
The interior options list will also include leather trim.
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