Hybrid Jazz on way

By Luke Madden

06th August 2010

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, before going on sale here early next year.

The newcomer is expected 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 achieve figures nearer 70mpg and 95g/km.

That’s a huge improvement over the regular Honda baby – the current most efficient model, the 1.2-litre petrol, returns 52.3mpg and puts out 125g/km. It also incurs road tax at £90 a year, while the hybrid will be exempt.

In addition to its hi-tech mechanicals, the petrol-electric Jazz will benefit from a number of tweaks designed to maximise its green credentials. These are expected to include 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 maximise efficiency.

The car will transfer its power to the front wheels through a five-speed manual box as standard, although buyers will be offered the option of an efficient CVT automatic transmission. When it goes on sale in the first half of next year, prices are expected to start at around £14,500 – making 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.