The new Honda Jazz–both Petrol and Sport Hybrid variants have landed in Malaysia. The popular hatchback is now open for bookings at all 90 authorised Honda dealers nationwide. Both variants are expected to hit the Malaysian market in Q2 2017, with the Sport Hybrid ready for delivery to customers starting Q3 2017.
Malaysia’s best-selling hatch is back
The Jazz continues to dominate the hatchback segment, contributing 13% of total Honda vehicle sales in 2017. Between January–April 2017, Honda sold over 4,400 units.
In total, the Jazz has sold over 77,000 units in Malaysia, since its introduction in 2003. Its best-seller by far, is the current third generation Jazz, introduced in 2014.
Honda was the pioneer automaker to introduce hybrid technology to Malaysians in 2004.
Subsequently, it was the first manufacturer in Malaysia, and the third in the world after Japan and the US, to produce hybrid vehicles locally in 2012.
With the new Jazz, Malaysia is the only country outside Japan to introduce Honda’s new intelligent Dual-Clutch Drive (i-DCD) Hybrid System.
What’s Sports Hybrid i-DCD?
Honda i-DCD combines the powerful 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engine with a compact high-torque motor and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. Depending on your input on the accelerator, the system can switch from fuel efficient EV mode to spirited driving in an instant.
Hybrid Drive mode makes use of both engine and motor power through the 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission.
What’s also new with the new Jazz Hybrid is the Intelligent Power Unit (IPU), which is more advanced than the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system found on older cars.
The IPU boasts double the system output, 1.5x the energy capacity, while being lighter and more compact.
The combined horsepower of the hybrid system and engine for the new vehicle is 137PS (equivalent to a 1.8L engine).
Honda says it has also tweaked the electric power steering to provide sportier handling and comfort during cruising.
The new Jazz Petrol is powered by the familiar 1.5L i-VTEC powerplant, mated to a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT).
It gets an enhanced look including a new chrome front grille, front and rear bumper design, dual tone colour alloy wheels, and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL).
As with previous generation Jazz vehicles, Smart Entry and Push Start Button come as standard. Half-leather seats and reverse camera are available as add-ons.
The Jazz’s signature Ultra Seats make a return, with four modes – Utility, Long, Tall and Refresh.
Safety continues to be a key focus for Honda, and the new Jazz safety features remain class-leading.
Brake Assist (BA), Anti-Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) and Hill Start Assist (HSA) comes as standard. Additionally, there’s also six airbags and ISO Fix.
Pricing and availability
No pricing has been revealed just yet, but the new Jazz Hybrid will make an official appearance at the Carlist.my MAA Drive, Test & Buy Event. The event happens on 13-14 May 2017 at Setia City Convention Centre (Hall 1 & 2) between 10AM to 10PM.
Bookings can be made at the Honda booth, with up to MYR12,000 discounts.
You can also visit any 90 authorised Honda dealers nationwide to place a booking for the New Jazz, or call toll-free 1-800-88-2020. Visit www.honda.com.my for more information.
