Honda Thailand released its hybrid version of it Jazz a few weeks ago, and now has revealed that the hybrid version will also be exported to Australia.
Thailand’s hybrid Jazz should make its debut at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney on October 18, the Australian-spec model being produced in Thailand alongside the conventional-engined version, taking advantage of the free-trade agreement between the two countries, where Australia does not have a similar “registration” penalty as Thailand has for importing vehicles.
Honda has said it is aiming to sell 10,000 Jazz Hybrids in Thailand – where it starts from 768,000 baht – and an equivalent number in Malaysia, once production commences there next year.
Thai specifications show the Jazz Hybrid is powered by Honda’s familiar 1339cc four cylinder i-VTEC engine producing 65 kW of power at 5800 rpm and 121 Nm of torque at 4500 rpm, combining with a 10 kW/78 Nm electric motor and driving the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission.
Idle-stop technology and a low-speed EV mode are fitted, helping the Jazz hybrid deliver combined-cycle fuel consumption of 4.7 L/100 km and CO2 emissions of 110 grams per kilometer (if you are interested in these numbers), based on internal company figures.
The hybrid chassis set-up is as the conventional model, including the use of a MacPherson strut front suspension, torsion beam rear axle, electric power steering system and standard 15 inch alloy wheels.
In Thailand, Honda is the first to offer a hybrid car in the sub-compact segment and has put a five year/unlimited mileage warranty on the hybrid system, including the electric motor, IPU (intelligent power unit), battery and wiring.
The driver can activate an ECON switch that takes the car into “super economy” mode, resulting in a four percent reduction in torque, smoother CVT shift pattern, increased regenerative braking and altered air-conditioning operation.
The IMA system, battery pack and power control unit are located under the rear cargo floor, which according to Honda has meant no change in either seating flexibility or cargo space.
Thai-spec models come with dual front airbags and ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, although Australian models will have traction and stability control and curtain airbags to enable a good ANCAP rating down-under.
