The hybridization is in line with Honda’s latest development strategy called the Electric Vision, which aims to switch the carmaker’s entire European lineup to electrified and/or all-electric powertrains.
First off, the company plans to release a hybrid-powered CR-V, followed by the all-electric Honda e and the fourth-gen Jazz. The latter should celebrate its premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show in late October and go on sale in Europe packing the i-MMD hybrid powertrain as the only option.
The current-gen Jazz, which you can see in our gallery and the video, offers a choice between two naturally aspirated gasoline engines: 1.3L rated at 102 hp (76 kW) and 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) of torque, and 1.5L rated at 130 hp (97 kW) and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft). Transmission can be either six-speed manual or CVT.
It is official that the new Jazz Hybrid will be styld similarly to the Honda e. It will most likely retail at a significant price premium compared to its predecessor, but the strict environmental standards in Japan will soon make it the only option on the domestic market.