Make way for the UK’s first hybrid supermini. Honda has confirmed that a petrol-electric Jazz will be the star of its stand at October’s Paris Motor Show, prior to going on sale here early following year.
The newcomer is anticipated to use the Insight’s IMA powertrain – a 1.3-litre petrol engine mated to a 9.7kW electric motor – which will give a total power output of 97bhp and 121Nm of torque.
While the Insight manages combined economy of 64.2mpg and emits only 101g/km of CO2, the smaller, lighter Jazz hybrid should attain figures nearer 70mpg and 95g/km.
That’s a large improvement over the normal Honda baby – the current most effective model, the 1.2-litre petrol, returns 52.3mpg and puts out 125g/km. It also incurs road tax at £90 a year, although the hybrid will be exempt.
Additionally to its hi-tech mechanicals, the petrol-electric Jazz will advantage from a number of tweaks designed to maximize its green credentials. These are expected to consist of a new aerodynamic bodykit, brake energy regeneration and a stop/start system. Also likely to feature is Honda’s ‘Econ’ mode, which adjusts throttle response and engine idle times to maximize efficiency.
The vehicle will transfer its power to the front wheels via a five-speed manual box as regular, although buyers will be offered the choice of an effective CVT automatic transmission. When it goes on sale within the first half of following year, costs are anticipated to start at around £14,500 – producing it the cheapest hybrid in the UK. The first examples will launch in Japan – where the Jazz is badged the Fit – by the end of this year.