Jazz try it out and see

> Honda’s little hybrid gives a lot more for its price

be driven on full EV mode – where it can go full EV between 40km/h and 50km/h up to over two kilometres before total battery depletion. As the electric motor is not linked to the engine, the Sport Hybrid i-DCD system starts in full EV mode for smoother stop-go driving in heavy traffic, which is greatly appreciated in congested cities. This is complemented by the Jazz Hybrid’s air-conditioning system that is driven by a motor compressor compared to the IMA, which exhibits capability to maintain cabin temperature at idle stops.

This improved system allows a comfortable ride for everyone in the vehicle even during high traffic conditions. All these impressive performance points are a result of Honda testing and running the Jazz Hybrid for two years in Malaysia before the launch in June. During that period, the car logged more than 7,000 kilometres on Malaysian roads, on different road conditions such as heavy traffic, winding roads and uphill slopes, all to refine and perfect the vehicle, and cater it to Malaysian road conditions and driving styles. variant, offers a couple of enhancements unique to it. Firstly, the shift-by-wire gear for smoother and sporty gear exchange for the Sport Hybrid i-DCD system. Next is the 3D “speed meter design” with multiinformation display which displays a variety of information such as energy flow, sport meter, fuel economy, drive info, customisation and Eco display – all right at the driver’s line of vision. There is also cruise control for a better driving experience.

This Jazz retains the iconic “Ultra Seats” unique only to the Jazz with four modes (Utility, Long, Tall and Refresh) for space maximisation for driver, passengers and goods. The multi-configuration modes of the seats allow the car to be configured for all occasions, be it short or long distance driving. Even with the Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) placement underneath the cargo space, the Ultra Seats arrangements can still be maintained.

Safety-wise, the new Jazz Hybrid carries a five-star Asean NCAP safety rating and is equipped with Brake Assist (BA), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), four airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and Hill Start Assist (HSA). The lithium-ion battery, which was designed to last the car’s lifetime, is charged every time you brake and therefore, there’s no need for any external chargers and/or cables. Honda Malaysia told us that a replacement battery cost of RM5,513** is the most affordable compared to other car manufacturers.

Warranty for the Jazz Hybrid is five years with unlimited mileage at 10,000km service intervals (at any of Honda’s 91 authorised dealers nationwide), and the lithium-ion battery gets eight years, on top of the standard warranty. You’ll also get six free labour services at 20,000km intervals, alternating with paid service.

Also, there’s no special servicing needed to maintain the Sport Hybrid i-DCD because it is serviced like other non-hybrid Honda models.

At RM84,880 (retail price without insurance, inclusive of GST), the Jazz Hybrid is available in Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and White Orchid Pearl.

*Based on UN R101 test result. **Terms and conditions apply.