Honda’s newest hybrid model is set to become the smallest-and most affordable- hybrid model in the UK when the refreshed Jazz line-up is released in two months time.
Honda Jazz hybrid deals on TheHybridCarWebsite.co.uk
A hybrid version of the Jazz will be the first hybrid model in the small, B-segment and at just £15,995-it will be around £3000 less its larger rival, the Toyota Auris HSD.
However, using Honda’s IMA system, the Jazz hybrid is not as low emission as some of its rivals despite its diminutive size. Using a continuously variable transmission and stop-start system coupled with a hybrid powertrain, the Jazz has CO2 emissions of 104 g/km, well above the Auris hybrid at 89 g/km and higher even than regular petrol models such as the Ford Fiesta with 99g/km.
Despite the less-than class-leading emission levels which mean the Jazz hybrid will miss out on some important tax incentives, Product PR manager Steve Kirk justified the Jazz’s mediocre environmental credentials in an interview with news agency Headlineauto.com: “The Jazz is a global car, it has not been specifically engineered for the UK or to meet the London Congestion Charge.
“We could get down to under 100g/km but there would be compromises along the way. We would probably have to install a larger battery, therefore reducing space in the cargo area, or lose weight in the car by stripping out sound-deadening materials which would lead to a loss in refinement.”
Honda still believes the new model will make inroads into the fleet market despite missing the pivotal sub-100g/km CO2 category.
The company has also listened to its customers who have never taken to the automatic i-SHIFT transmission as well, preferring the Jazz’s CVT which has been updated and makes a comeback on the refreshed model.
I-SHIFT was originally introduced because it improved emissions, but Honda says the latest CVT is a lot greener than its predecessor.
The hybrid will be introduced in early March while 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol models go into the showrooms from this month.Petrol models are built at Honda’s UK factory in Swindon while hybrids are built in Japan where the manufacturing technology and expertise is based.
Petrol models are expected to account for around 27,000 sales this year and the hybrid 3,000.
Source: Headlineauto.com
