The third-generation Honda Jazz has the genes that has made the previous two versions successful. This one’s got more spunk, though.
Cdn photo/Brian J. Ochoa
The Honda Jazz is one model from the Japanese auto giant that has performed well in the Philippine market since it arrived in 2004.
This year, Honda introduced the third generation of the successful hatchback. Same as usual, the newest edition has the making of another winner in its segment.
The all-new subcompact hatchback has a funkier form this time around but still maintains the basic features that made the previous two editions successful.
The biggest difference from the previous generation is its more aggressive stance, highlighted by its squinting headlights and futuristic grille featuring a prominent bar that houses the ‘H’ badge that’s similar to the grille of its sibling, the Honda City subcompact sedan.
There’s actually a lot in common with the City like the character lines that run through the doors all the way to the taillights, and the dashboard.
The rear is highlighted by a taillight assembly that goes all the way to the rear roof spoiler. The top spec VX and VX+ variants get LED rear lights for added spice.
The Jazz grew in length, (from 3,915 mm to 3,955 mm) while the width and height remain at 1,695 mm and 1,525 mm. The added length doesn’t affect its performance as the Jazz handles the same as before, making it really fun to drive.
The 1.5-liter chain-drive SOHC i-VTEC engine produces 118 horsepower that’ll make driving really fun.
Cdn photo/Brian J. Ochoa
Add to the fact that all variants are now powered by 1.5-liter, chain-driven SOHC i-VTEC engines (118 horsepower), this version of the Jazz is truly the sporty type. And it’s this type that the younger generation will surely love, and the older generation will learn to love because of its smooth-shifting 7-speed continuously variable transmission.
The longer wheelbase also means that the new Jazz has a bigger cabin space, which is felt more in the spacious rear seat.
The front seats also have ample space, but it is the dashboard that will keep the driver and front passenger busy. The dashboard boasts of well laid out instrument panel displays and touchscreen controls for audio and air-conditioner on the VX and VX+ variants.
It is also inside where the Jazz retains some of its old features that makes it unique in its class. Topping that list is the ULTR (utility, long, tall, refresh) mode that offers a wide variety of passenger and cargo-hauling needs.
With this useful basic feature and the addition of sporty looks, great handling and a bigger but thrifty engine, this version of the Jazz is surely going to be great music to the ears of die-hard car enthusiasts.
The instrument panel cluster is well laid out and cool to the eyes.
Cdn photo/Brian J. Ochoa
The Jazz comes in pretty colors, such as this vivid sky blue pearl shade.
Cdn photo/Lito Tecson